Another great story from Matthew (Silver Linings Playbook) who demonstrates that hope is what's possible and necessary in life. Amber Appleton is a teen who in spite of her mother's choices inspires everyone she interacts with regardless of age, sex or mindset. A member of a group of dysfunctional high school friends, her wit, passion and energy is contagious. Of the five members, Ricky, an autistic math wiz is her sidekick, his mother Donna, an attorney who supports Amber in ways unimaginable. Guided by Father Chee, priest at a Korean Catholic church and an introverted Vietnam veteran, her circle is unique, supportive and diverse. Having to live in a school bus would hamper most, but Amber and her dog, Bobby Big Boy, are filled with joy, hope and expectation. Inspired, heart warming and paced to perfection, this is a terrific story worth reading. As a film buff and writer, I deeply disappointed in the Netflix adaptation so my recommendation is to read rather than view. ( )

At first, I was put-off by the vernacular, but after becoming acquainted with the narrator's style I quickly became immersed in the story about a homeless teenage girl who believes in JC (Jesus Christ) and believes she can become a beacon of hope in a world where meaningless reigns. Not even tragedy can extinguish this young woman's faith although at times the flame not only flickers but threatens to die.

An interesting story about hope from the author of THE SILVER LINING'S PLAYBOOK, which is currently in movie production with a 2013 release date. (Shameless plug for Quick, I admit, but hey, maybe someday someone will shamelessly plug me.) ( )

Great teenage girl narrator and so incredibly moving. I found myself working really hard to not cry in front of a classroom full of teenagers while reading this. Tragic and uplifting and a heroine worth rooting for. ( )

Another awesome book! I am on a roll with Matthew Quick and these other YA authors this fall. ( )

Woops. Looks like I forgot to review this one for a few days. Oh well, here I am now. Sorta Like a Rock Star is a book about optimism, hope, and being true to yourself. Those are themes that seem to be rather prevalent in any type of literature, but in this book they're attacked in a rather interesting way. Amber Appleton is homeless, her mom is an alcoholic, and ends up being brutally murdered. How do you stay positive through that? And, oh, yeah, her dog may have cancer. The book comes off as a little bit Brady Bunch at times, but it's aware of the fact and pretty much makes it work.

I view this book more as a feel-good story than anything else. It has that perfect tone of nearly-flip that can set you to grinning, and relaxing into the story. Don't expect greatness, do expect to be cheered up. Not every book needs to be especially deep to be enjoyable. ( )