Everything I Was

February 14, 2011
Thirteen-year-old Irene's world is turned upside down when her father loses his job as an investment banker because of a merger. Her penthouse lifestyle in New York City's Upper West Side is over. Despite her socialite mother's protests and denial about their financial situation, the family put their belongings in storage and move upstate into Irene's grandfather's farmhouse. At first Irene is skeptical and resentful, but she quickly warms up to helping her grandfather in the greenhouse, exploring the cozy barn and making new friendships with a charming family with five kids who live down the road. But Irene's mother is still determined to return to the city, and the question remains: if and when the time comes, will Irene want to go back to her former life? Having written for picture book, middle-grade, and adult audiences, Demas's first book for teens presents an authentic if occasionally precious and melodramatic portrait of country life, economic stress, and the tensions associated with a major life change. Irene's budding independence and inner strength add greatly to this absorbing coming-of-age tale. Ages 11–16.

April 1, 2011

Gr 6-8-Irene's life is turned upside down when her father loses his high-paying New York City job. Her mother's desire to keep up appearances at times confuses Irene as she tries to understand just how bad the situation is. Eventually, their Upper West Side lifestyle is just too expensive to maintain, so the family leaves the city for Irene's grandfather's farm in upstate New York. Out in the country, Irene begins to thrive, making friends and building a strong relationship with her grandfather-the only adult she feels truly listens to her. While the issues in this book are relevant and reflective of true teen experiences, its audience is hard to pin down. Irene is 13, yet her developing relationship with Jim, the boy next door, and the inclusion of a few expletives might not be suitable for some younger readers. The overly dramatic attitude Irene displays while trying to wrestle with all the changes in her life might seem too juvenile to some readers. In areas where many children are experiencing a similar downsizing in their family's lifestyle, this book could find its niche with readers who can identify with the protagonist.-Amy Commers, South St. Paul Public Library, MN

Copyright 2011 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.