Likely Story

August 1, 2008
Gr 7 Up-Mallory's mother is a big-name soap-opera star. When Mallory comes up with an idea for a daytime soap aimed at teens that would deal with real-life situations, this pedigree helps her get a shot at creating and writing it. In the process, she learns to stand up for herself and to do what is righteven if it means facing tough consequences. A collaboration among three authorssoap-opera writer Chris Van Etten, David Ozanich, and David Levithan, who is known for sensitive portrayals of teens"Likely Story" occasionally has an uneven tone, as tender moments are blended with a realistic look at the soap-opera business. Still, Mallory comes across as a likable, regular teen despite growing up on television sets and having a mother as selfish and manipulative as any daytime-drama villain. Her snappy narrative is filled with a believable mix of self-doubt, scathing humor, and real emotion. The book never indulges in the glamour of the television lifestyle, but focuses on the story and characters. The novel ends abruptly with a cliff-hanger climax, leaving an opening for the next book in the series."Amelia Jenkins, Juneau Public Library, AK"

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