Seventeen and In-Between : Book Review

"Seventeen and In Between" by Barthe DeClements is a heartwarming and relatable coming-of-age novel that delves into the ups and downs of Angie, a teenage girl on the cusp of adulthood. Set in a small town during the 1970s, the story chronicles Angie's journey as she grapples with the complexities of growing up.

Angie is a well-crafted protagonist who immediately captivates the reader's attention. DeClements skillfully portrays her struggles with identity, family dynamics, and the pressures of adolescence. Angie's yearning for independence and her desire to break free from her protective family are themes that resonate with many young readers.

The author expertly paints a nostalgic picture of a close-knit community in a small-town, 1970s setting. The vivid descriptions of local hangouts, the high school atmosphere, and the strong bonds between friends and neighbors add to the book's charm and authenticity.

DeClements' writing style is engaging and accessible, appealing to both young adults and older readers. The book addresses significant topics like friendship, loss, and effective communication within relationships with a delicate touch. The characters are realistically portrayed and their emotional journeys and conflicts come alive on the pages.

Overall, "Seventeen and In Between" is a beautiful and heartfelt coming-of-age story that resonates with readers of all ages. DeClements skillfully depicts Angie's growth, her decisions, and her search for her place in the world. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a relatable and sincere narrative about self-discovery and navigating the challenges of young adulthood.

What are readers saying?

Barthe DeClements' novel, "Seventeen and In-Between," has generated a range of opinions from readers. The book follows the story of Maggie, a seventeen-year-old girl who struggles with the conflict between her parents' expectations and her own desires.

Some reviewers highly praised DeClements' ability to accurately depict the challenges and emotions experienced by teenagers. They found the characters relatable and appreciated the realistic portrayal of the difficulties faced during adolescence. These readers commended the author for tackling important issues such as peer pressure, self-identity, and parental expectations in a thoughtful and sensitive manner.

However, other readers felt that the novel lacked depth and failed to fully explore its themes. They found the characters and the plot to be somewhat predictable and formulaic, lacking originality. Some reviewers expressed a desire for more character development, as they struggled to connect with and invest in the protagonists and their journey.

Opinions on the pacing of the story were also divided. Some readers found the book engaging and captivating from beginning to end, with a satisfying resolution. They praised DeClements' ability to maintain tension and suspense throughout the narrative. On the other hand, some reviewers felt that the pacing was slow at times, with certain scenes dragging on unnecessarily.

The writing style in "Seventeen and In-Between" also received mixed feedback. Some readers appreciated DeClements' simple and accessible prose, finding it to be an easy and enjoyable read. They admired the author's ability to convey complex emotions in a clear and concise manner. However, a few reviewers desired a more sophisticated writing style, with more nuanced language and descriptive imagery.

SeventeenAndInBetween YABook ComingOfAge