Criss Cross : Book Review

"Criss Cross" by Susan Gates is an enthralling young adult novel that captivates readers with its gripping storyline and compelling characters. Set in a small coastal town, the book explores the themes of friendship, trust, and the consequences of one's actions.

The story revolves around Cal, a talented artist who is struggling to cope with the recent loss of his mother. As he grapples with his grief, Cal becomes embroiled in a mystery surrounding a missing girl. Gates skillfully intertwines Cal's personal journey with the suspenseful plot, keeping readers hooked until the very end.

One of the standout features of "Criss Cross" is the well-drawn cast of characters. Each character is portrayed authentically and contributes depth to the narrative. The friendship between Cal and Zoe is particularly well-written, as their shared love for art and determination to uncover the truth bring them closer together. The supporting characters add complexity to the story, offering unexpected twists and turns.

Gates' writing style is engaging and descriptive, painting a vivid portrait of the coastal town and its inhabitants. The pacing of the book is skillfully done, allowing suspense to build gradually while maintaining a sense of urgency. The author seamlessly incorporates themes of identity, family, and personal growth, making "Criss Cross" a thought-provoking read.

Overall, "Criss Cross" is a riveting and expertly crafted novel that will appeal to young adult readers and fans of mystery and suspense. Susan Gates' skillful storytelling, relatable characters, and intriguing plot make this book a must-read for anyone seeking a thrilling and emotionally resonant story.

What are readers saying?

Susan Gates' children's adventure book, "Criss Cross," has garnered a variety of opinions from readers. The story focuses on Elinor, the main character, as she sets off on a quest to locate her missing brother.

Some readers praised Gates' captivating storytelling and the fast-paced plot. They found themselves engrossed in the suspenseful elements and were unable to put the book down. Described as a thrilling mystery, "Criss Cross" kept readers guessing until the very end. Additionally, many appreciated Gates' writing style, noting its accessibility and ease of comprehension, particularly for a younger audience.

However, there were some who expressed disappointment with the book. They felt that the story lacked depth and did not adequately develop its characters. Elinor, the protagonist, was deemed underdeveloped and unrelatable, which hindered readers' ability to fully connect with her and the narrative. Criticisms were also aimed at the emotional aspects of the story, which some felt were not explored to their fullest potential.

Furthermore, a few readers found the plot to be predictable and formulaic. The twists and turns did not provide the desired level of excitement and surprise, as they were easily foreseen. Some reviewers called for more complexity in the plot, suggesting that it was overly simplistic and geared solely towards a younger audience.

On the other hand, there were those who appreciated the book's themes of family, friendship, and loyalty. They found these elements to be heartwarming and believed they added emotional depth to the story. Additionally, readers commended Gates' ability to create vivid and imaginative settings that enhanced their reading experience.

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