Thursday, July 08, 2010

Review: Amy & Roger's Epic Detour

Amy & Roger's Epic Detour
Morgan Matson
2010; Simon & Schuster; ISBN 978-1-4169-9065-9 (hardcover)

Summary: Ever since the death of her father--in a car accident while she was driving--Amy has tried to stay numb and invisible. While her twin brother has been sent to rehab, Amy's mother has taken a new job across the country, leaving Amy behind to finish school. But now it's summer, and the family car has to be brought from California to Connecticut. But since Amy refuses to drive, enter Roger, the nineteen-year-old son of a family friend. Rather than follow the itinerary planned by Amy's mother, Roger and Amy decide to take a few detours. As they go from Yosemite, America's Loneliest Highway, Louisville to Graceland, the two will explore America as they search their own souls.

A heartwarming travelogue of a novel, Morgan Matson offers an insightful look at grieving and coming of age. Amy slowly finds her own path as she gets to explore America. Roger, meanwhile, manages to throw off the influence of his ex-girlfriend as he spends time with Amy. With playlists, photos and other memorabilia, Amy & Roger's Epic Detour speaks of the appeal of lesser-known paths, both for road trips and for personal growth. Recommend this novel to teens who have enjoyed Two-Way Street by Lauren Barnholdt or Cashay by Margaret McMullan.

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