Thursday, January 18, 2007

Buddy by V.M.Jones


For sporty children. Buddy is 12 years old but the character comes across as much older. He is a quiet and introverted boy living with his separated father and partner. Buddy's feelings and behavior towards her are very realistic which may appeal to teenage readers experiencing the same tension.

The writing is a little unusual. It is mostly about the character's inner world and nothing much happens outside that. The movement in the story is too slow for me. He has worries and fears which adds some good tension for the reader. Nothing comes of them. That is like real life but it seems more of a flaw in this book.

The descriptions of his atheletic experiences are very well written. Those into sports will love these passages.

It is not a gripping story. Plot and character are not the driving force. It is a gently told story and events are not predictable which is always a positive. The last part is very emotional, not unlike modern movies in which the hero is publicly acclaimed. Both good and bad in my opinion.

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