It's been three years since Taliah discovered her mother's secret box of Julian Oliver info. Newspaper clippings, interviews, and one mysterious letter. Julian Oliver, who is the lead singer of a famous band called Staring into the Abyss, also happens to be (most likely) Taliah's father. She's sent countless letters to him, explaining the situation, but nothing seems to be getting through to him - or maybe he just doesn't care. At least that's what Taliah thought was the case before Julian suddenly appeared on her doorstep, asking her to come meet her dying grandfather.
AGE RANGE TEENS
THEMES
Family
Friends
Adventure
Death
OVERALL RATING 8.5/10
I liked this book more than most teen novels. The story is beautiful and realistic at the same time as being funny and exciting. It is a wonderfully told tale of self-discovery, grief, and new beginnings. The characters talk in the regular YA way - as if they are extremely cool, always know what to say, and don't care about anything. I find the dialogue disrupts the great story, but it is still enjoyable to read.
PROS
Great story
Heartfelt
Believable
CONS
Terrible teen dialogue