Personal Effects
by E.M. Kokie
Book Description:
Ever since his
brother, T.J., was killed in Iraq, Matt feels like he’s been sleepwalking
through life — failing classes, getting into fights, and avoiding his dad’s
lectures about following in his brother’s footsteps. T.J.’s gone, but Matt can’t
shake the feeling that if only he could get his hands on his brother’s stuff
from Iraq, he’d be able to make sense of his death. But as Matt searches for
answers about T.J.’s death, he faces a shocking revelation about T.J.’s life
that suggests he may not have known T.J. as well as he thought. What he learns
challenges him to stand up to his father, honor his brother’s memory, and take
charge of his own life.
Review:
Wow. This debut novel blew me away. Before I tell
you why, let me note that this book is getting what will probably be my last
gold star for the year!
This book was touching. This book was funny. This book
was...it was everything. I ran the gamut of emotions right alongside Matt as he
discovered who his brother actually was...and who that makes him.
This book touches on some heavy topics. Grief,
homosexuality, abuse, love, and it does it all while still feeling natural.
Matt is a fully realized character surrounded by people that have interesting
facets, as well. The way that even characters who are no longer in the story
manage to become fleshed out as the tale progresses...that takes talented
writing and storybuilding.
My heart broke for this character and then rejoiced as he
was reborn into a stronger, more complete person. Well done. Impossible to put
down and well worth reading.
