Shiver (The Wolves of Mercy Falls, #1) - Maggie Stiefvater

This is one of those few YA paranormal books that actually catches me and warms my heart. I know a few people gave this book terrible reviews, but I saw a lot of good ones, too. And I sat out to read it for myself. Boy, was I happy I did. This book had me in tears by the final page.

 

I found Sam terribly tragic and sweet, doomed to a life he didn't choose. Grace was whimsical and obsessed, but had a heart of compassion and love. They made such a cute couple. The entire struggle to keep him human was bittersweet because they knew eventually they'd lose but they kept going, cherishing every second they had. I was pulling for them. There was no insta-love. Their love developed over years of watching from afar. More books need to learn from that.

 

The only issue I take with this, and most other popular YA books is the severe lack of parental supervision. Where the Hell are the parents?! Just out working, or being neglectful, I suppose. It's so frustrating since I couldn't do anything without my mom glowering over my shoulder when I was 17. She even watched me leave for work. She wouldn't go to bed until I was HOME from work, either, no matter how late I had to stay at the restaurant. I can't wrap my head around all these perfectly normal parents that just never come home. They aren't being abusive or forgetful. They just seem to think a 17 year old girl is completely trustworthy and independent. I don't get it.

 

Anyway, end of that rant. Not much of a review. Just some random thoughts on this book. I've gotta go get Jake from school. Later peeps.