A FINE YA NOVEL WITH SOMETHING FOR ALL READERS

Between Two Skies by Joanne O’Sullivan, published in 2017 discusses “post-Katrina (Hurricane Katrina, which hit New Orleans around 2005) relocation and renewal.”

The story is told from Evangeline’s point of view and involves her sister, Mandy and the other members of her family. Mandy is dying to be crowned an Orange Queen in the popular Bayou Perdue parade. Evangeline is a queen of another parade (her first time at winning a title), but she is an unwilling Shrimp Queen.

Hurricane Katrina makes a direct hit on Bayou Perdue, wiping out the town. Fortunately, Evangeline and her family evacuate in time and stay with a relative. As the plot progresses, the family is split apart, some wanting to stay with the relative, others wanting to re-start their life in Bayou Perdue.

Bittersweet emotions emerge as the story revolves around teen romance and other teen issues: underage drinking, friendships and loyalties, betrayal, and “mean girls.” The author, through Evangeline, expresses a strong love of nature, the bayous of Louisiana and its wildlife. When Evangeline and her father are out on their boat, the reader can “see” the surrounding environment.

Full of “richly drawn characters,” this YA novel proves that “not even a hurricane can defeat the human heart.” It is a darned good read.

I have come to enjoy YA novels although I am a far cry from a YOUNG adult.
A thank you to Even for my sign off.
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Author: Rae Longest

This year (2019) finds me with 50 plus years of teaching "under my belt." I have taught all levels from pre-K "(library lady" or "book lady"--volunteer) to juniors, seniors, and graduate students enrolled in my Advanced Writing class at the university where I have just completed 30 years. My first paying teaching job was junior high, and I spent 13 years with ages 12-13, the "difficult years." I had some of the "funnest" experiences with this age group. When I was no longer the "young, fun teacher," I taught in an elementary school setting before sixth graders went on to junior high, teaching language arts blocs, an assignment that was a "dream-fit" for me. After completing graduate school in my 40s, I went on to community college, then university teaching. Just as teaching is "in my blood," so is a passion for reading, writing, libraries, and everything bookish. This blog will be open to anyone who loves books, promotes literacy and wants to "come out and play."

5 thoughts on “A FINE YA NOVEL WITH SOMETHING FOR ALL READERS”

  1. I don’t think I have read any books about the aftermath of Katrina. I agree with Deb, YA books are often a great way to show what is really going on and I do enjoy a well written one. Great review Rae.

    Liked by 1 person

  2. I had some real-life experiences with students who were struggling in college because the gaps in their education due to Katrina and relocation afterwards. The story reminded me of those students’ experiences.

    Like

    1. Type in Roll With It and it will open to the Draconian post, then scroll down until you see Saturday Mornings For Kids (2nd one down); that’s where Roll With it is. It’s a really great book. I have a copy if you’ll send me your mailing address, I’ll mail it to you.

      Like

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