Ice

Gr 8 Up-High school seniors Seth and Jenna are running from their demons. Franny, Seth's girlfriend and Jenna's sister, was killed in a car accident caused by his inexperience and recklessness. Seth and Jenna have alienated themselves from their friends and from one another and have wrapped themselves in anger, regret, and guilt. The story is told through their alternating voices. Seth tries to deal with his guilt by volunteering as an EMT. Jenna is plagued with the question of how Seth could be responsible for the death of her beloved sister. She also becomes an EMT and finds herself infringing on his refuge. Their stories revolve around the constant danger and adrenaline rush of an EMT's work. Tensions are high between Seth and Jenna as neither one is willing or able to talk about what happened. It takes a natural disaster for them to begin the long healing process. The characters' voices are realistic and the way the teens deal with their pain rings true. The themes of loss and forgiveness run throughout the book. The plot is fast paced and the climax, while a little far-fetched, will hold readers' interest.-Angela M. Boccuzzi-Reichert, Merton Williams' Middle School, Hilton, NY Copyright 2006 Reed Business Information.