Sunday, July 05, 2009

Slept Away by Julie Kraut

At the beginning of her 15th summer, Laney believes that she has everything going for her. However, her mother's decision to shake up her entire summer experience by sending her to Camp Timber Trails is enough to put a huge damper on her spirits. After much protest, Laney boards the bus to a camp full of peeing seven-year-olds and teenagers with too-tight shorts. Shortly after arriving at camp, Laney befriends the semi-nerdy Sylvie, and they soon concoct a masterplan to earn Sylvie her first boyfriend. However, along the way, Laney comes across an unexpected romance of her own.

I really enjoyed Slept Away. With its witty sarcasm and fun storyline, I simply couldn't put it down! I particularly enjoyed Laney's transformation from city-girl to camper. This is because many of Laney's kind traits were hidden beneath a rather unkind facade, and were unmasked as she began to think more about Sylvie's relationshionship status. I would recommend this book for any teenager who wishes to explore the relationships and bonds created over a summer of off-the-wall fun. Overall, I think this novel could become the next Sarah Dessen novel in the world of teen lit, and can be expected to entertain many.
Reviewer Age:13

Reviewer City, State and Country: Elkview, West Virginia United States