Good and Gone

Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: July 18, 2017

Review

This YA road-trip novel by Maine author, Megan Frazer Blakemore tackles tough issues of depression and sexual abuse. A missing pop star is the impetus for siblings, Lexi and Charlie, along with neighbor, Zack, to venture away from home. Each one has a secret and as the miles pass truths are revealed. Lexi is the narrator of the story and through a series of flashbacks, the reader learns that she was raped by her boyfriend and has never told anyone. This is a very different tone from Blakemore’s other YA novels; Lexi is edgy and angry, but becomes more likeable as the reader begins to understand her vulnerability. Each chapter begins with a unique touch-a piece of a fairy tale that compliments the narrative nicely. The edgy humor is reminiscent of Ned Vizzini novels and fans of E. Lockhart with relate to the strength and intelligence of the female characters.

Overall Book Score: excellent