How Far Would You Have Gotten If I Hadn't Called You Back? - Softcover

The author of this novel, an ALA Best Book for 1995, is the 1999 Winner of the PEN/Norma Klein Award.

Grade 9 Up?This sensitive, complex coming-of-age novel immerses readers in the world of Ojala, CA circa 1960. At 16, Bron is angry. Having lost her adoration for her alcoholic father following his botched suicide attempt, she is disdainful of her mother's support of his dream to open his own restaurant. Also, Bron, a talented pianist, is afraid that she'll never fit in. But when she becomes friends with enigmatic Lanie, a beauty pageant-winning poor girl, she delves quickly into the popular lifestyle of drinking, hot rods, dating, and sliding by at school. Bron is smitten by J.C., a nearly mythical older guy who lets her race his Deuce at the local dragstrip in the women's heat. When Will, a well-bred, serious young man from a ranch family enters her life, they begin an innocent romance. After Will departs for West Point, she loses her virginity to J.C. and immediately regrets it. When Will is found dead (the circumstances are unclear), Bron realizes how much her actions matter. She matures emotionally and develops her musical talent (as revealed in the epilogue) with the help of Will's mother. Bron's is a believable and realistic voice. Her changing self-image and relationships are beautifully detailed, as are the interesting assortment of supporting (NOT minor) characters and the physical world they inhabit. The themes are subtly evoked and life's lessons are learned the hard way. A powerfully written and memorable debut.?Joel Shoemaker, Southeast Jr. High School, Iowa City, IA
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.