Monday, April 20, 2009

CAUGHT BETWEEN THE PAGES by Marlene Carvell



What would you do if you were suddenly in possession of your English teacher's private journal? Destroy it? Give it back? Or read it?

PJ Barnes got a lot more than he bargained for when he stayed after school to catch up on his missing English homework. It wasn't like he chose to stay - he was told to stay, and he was watched every minute by Mrs. Jordan. Not only did he have to sit there and do worksheets, but she also sent home a pile of stuff and expected it back pronto!

When PJ gets home, he dumps his backpack and is shocked to discover what is among the papers - Mrs. Jordan's private notebook. It must have gotten mixed with the worksheets, and now it's there demanding attention. When he takes a look, he's interested to see that it's not terribly exciting, but it does contain some interesting insight into many of his fellow classmates and even some members of the school staff.

The journal simply adds to the complications already filling PJ's life. He's already dealing with a nagging mother, a disinterested stepdad, a constantly yelling soccer coach, and grades that barely show up on the grade scale. When Mrs. Jordan asks the class if anyone has seen her blue notebook, PJ doesn't have a clue what to do. He could give it back and say he didn't even realize he had it until she mentioned it, or he could hang on to it and see if it might prove useful.

CAUGHT BETWEEN THE PAGES is the story of a teen struggling to find his place in life. PJ is dealing with personal issues and at the same time trying to stay afloat in school and hang onto the few friends he feels lucky to have. Despite his efforts to stay under the radar, he becomes the center of attention for way more people and situations than he ever thought possible.

Author Marlene Carvell has created a story that is sure to appeal to teens, especially the guys. PJ and his problems are easy to relate to and should keep readers on the edge of their seats. This would make an excellent addition to any YA collection.

1 comment:

Shooting Stars Mag said...

Nice review. I haven't heard of this before, but it does sound really good.

-Lauren