The Boy Most Likely To

August 3, 2015
Fitzpatrick returns to the theme of opposites uniting in this heartfelt companion to My Life Next Door (2012), which revisits the large, boisterous Garrett family. When the story begins, eldest daughter Alice is overwhelmed by the responsibilities of working at her parents' hardware store, chauffeuring her siblings around town, and tackling the family's mounting bills while her father is in the hospital. She cannot help but be irritated when her brother's screw-up buddy, Tim, gets kicked out of his house and usurps her one place of refuge, the apartment above the garage. Tim appears to be turning over a new leaf, but when the serious consequences of Tim's wild days come crashing down, it threatens to compromise Tim's plans for the future and destroy his blossoming romance with Alice. The well-defined characters, splashes of humor, and emotional entanglements of Fitzpatrick's previous works reappear in full force in this contemporary romance. Not every conflict gets resolved, but readers will sense that the Garretts and newcomer Tim will surpass their obstacles and thrive. Ages 14âup. Agent: Christina Hogrebe, Jane Rotrosen Agency.

October 1, 2015

Gr 9 Up-While readers met Alice Garrett and Tim Mason in My Life Next Door (Dial, 2012), that novel centered on Jase Garrett and Samantha Reed. This time, the focus shifts to Alice and Tim. Tim continues to attend Alcoholics Anonymous, while Alice still tries not to fall for him because of his checkered lifestyle. As he struggles to keep his life together, he has every reason to fall off the wagon when Hester, a girl from his past, reenters his life with a son she claims is his. Tim is forced to grow up in a hurry and figure out what is the right thing to do. The relationship between Alice and Tim blossoms as Tim's true character is revealed. This novel will speak to any teen who has ever had to make a hard decision. The author delivers a strong message without being heavy-handed, and the well-thought-out ending is considerate and will broaden teens' perspectives. This book is best suited for mature readers because of the strong language and sexual innuendo. Fans of the previous volume will have a greater appreciation for this companion novel. VERDICT Purchase where My Life Next Door is popular.-Karen Alexander, Lake Fenton High School, Linden, MI

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