Monday, 29 March 2010

Review - What I Saw and How I Lied / Judy Blundell

In 1947, with her jovial stepfather Joe back from the war and family life returning to normal, teenage Evie, smitten by the handsome young ex-GI who seems to have a secret hold on Joe, finds herself caught in a complicated web of lies whose devastating outcome change her life and that of her family forever.

Review - It has been a couple of weeks since I read this book and I still am not completely sure what I think about it. Judy Blundell has written an interestingly structured examination of growing up in post-war times. While it covers a whole host of themes from independence, sexuality, femininity and racial equality, it centres on the events that affect Evie's trip to Florida.

The truth is that there are many things to like about this book. For instance, Evie's imaginings or love contrasted with reality, the power of a hot dame in a dress and the nature of truth. It's an evocative read, the heat smolders off the page as the temperature becomes unbearable and reflects the dire nature of her family's predicament. It's a beautifully written piece of work as the many awards can attest. And yet, for some reason, I couldn't really gel with Evie's journey completely and it is still something that mystifies me.

With the back drop of war, the bigotry and grandiosity of these people surrounding a mystery, it's a thought provoking and compelling read.

Published: November 1, 2008
Format: Paperback, 281 pages
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Source: purchased
Origin: USA

5 comments:

Michelle Zink said...

I've been wanting to read this one for SUCH a long time. Must add to list!
<3

MZ

Audrey (holes In My brain) said...

You know what? I hate how amazing your writing skills are, this review is so so so well written. *glares in jealousy*. just kidding, you rock!

this book looks different, but still good!

Shweta said...

Mystifying thing is definitely there with this book. I can't say I really liked Evie but she was a character who made me think a lot after I finished reading . Writingwise her's was a very well written character. Her coming of age and understanding the nature of people around her gave me lots of food for thought.

Took me a while to write the review too :)

April (BooksandWine) said...

I have been DYING to read this book, mainly because of cover love. But, it does seem to be quite thought-provoking, which is generally a good thing.

I suppose the jury is still out on this book for you?qq

Laura Schaefer said...

I read this book about a year ago and really loved it. It has a unique voice and takes place during such a fascinating time in history. Also, I heart the cover. :)