Review: Love and Leftovers by Sarah Tregay

"My wish

is to fall

cranium over Converse

in dizzy, daydream-worthy

love.

(If only it were that easy.)

When her parents split, Marcie is dragged from Idaho to a family summerhouse in New Hampshire. She leaves behind her friends, a group of freaks and geeks called the Leftovers, including her emo-rocker boyfriend, and her father. By the time Labor Day rolls around, Marcie suspects this "vacation" has become permanent. She starts at a new school where a cute boy brings her breakfast and a new romance heats up.

But understanding love, especially when you've watched your parents' affections end, is elusive. What does it feel like, really? can you even know it until you've lost it?"

I love love love books written in verse. Not only because of the feel it gives to the writing, but also because I can read several in the time it takes to finish one novel written in prose, and not feel deprived of anything. This book started out cute and simple, and I started to think it was never going to dip below the surface. However, about halfway through things get extremely real for the narrator and I couldn't flip the pages fast enough! I was on Skype with my boyfriend while reading the last 100 pages, and I'm sure he'd be happy to verify my smiles, laughs and gasps for you. So yes, the book gets stronger as you go, which is definitely better than the alternative.

One problem I do find with verse books is that there almost always isn't enough character development to satisfy me. I loved the book, but I really wanted to know more about everyone! I wanted to see a different side to Linus, and know for myself why I should be rooting for him. I wanted to understand more about Marcie's parents and their relationship. I just wanted more. But I appreciate the story for what it is, and I think Sarah did an excellent job telling it.

The book itself is very relevant. It addresses the ever-changing dynamics of today's culture, and challenges you to think about what it really means to be a family, and what it takes to love. I definitely recommend this book, especially to those of you who read, and loved, The Day Before by Lisa Schroeder.