Furious Thing

December 23, 2019
In this thought-provoking novel, British YA author Downham (Before I Die) frankly conveys the effects of emotional abuse through her intimate portrait of a furious teen. Fifteen-year-old Lexi’s hot temper and volatile outbursts are ruining her mother’s idealized “proper family.” Lexis is convinced that her soon-to-be-stepfather, John, doesn’t care as much for her as he does for his six-year-old daughter, Iris, or his older son, Kass, Lexi’s childhood friend with whom she’s has fallen in love. With the wedding approaching, Lexi vows to calm down and be nicer to John, but when her efforts backfire, her fury grows, especially when John’s cruelty extends to her mother and Iris. Despite her wild behavior, Lexi emerges as an empathic heroine whose evolution from self-deprecating teen to a self-confident young woman is adroitly crafted alongside the fine line between strict parenting and abuse. Many teens, particularly those who recognize Lexi’s circumstances, will draw strength and courage from her arduous emotional journey. Ages 12–up.

Some authors excel at narrating their own work. Jenny Downham can be counted among them. Her latest teen novel features Lexi, a 15-year-old whose anger issues are coming to a head as she struggles for perfection, hoping to be accepted by her mother's demanding fianc�. In this haunting story, Lexi's frustrations with her shortcomings are realistically portrayed, both by the words on the page and by Downham's performance. Significant differences between characters' voices help draw the listener into Lexi's world. Downham's remarkable skills, both as author and as narrator, ensure that listeners will empathize with Lexi's turmoil. Beautifully performed, this audiobook is certain to evoke deep emotions. A.L.S.M. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award � AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine