I have to start this by saying that Dusty is the best big brother! I really enjoyed reading this book. The love Dusty had for his two younger siblings gave me so much respect for him. Though his life got tough and unwanted changes happened, he stayed as strong as he could for them. Even when he made a bad decision (slightly out of greed), it was because he loved them and wanted to be their supporter. He didn’t want to share his siblings. He met a few great people along his journey and learned to accept help.
Now, about the book, I have to say that you can tell a teacher wrote it because you get a bit of interesting history in it and, because I’m a major geek, I researched it further. I love when a book can teach me something. However, in a few places the history lesson came in at odd times. I felt they were a bit of a filler and didn’t like that a ton, but it is important to know that this did not take anything away from the story itself.
The reason I write this good review but only give it 3 marbles is because I didn’t care for the ending of the book. I felt like there could have been a bit more to the ending. I really wanted to know what happened with the boys, and how Emmitt’s mom took the news of him being gay. I felt that once the drama died down, the author rushed through the ending. I hope I get a second book so I can find out what becomes of them. Don't let that stop you from reading it. It's good and a worthy read. ~Timmy
Available from Harmony Ink/Dreamspinner
Find Johanna Parkhurst on her blog, on Harmony Ink Press,
About Here's to You Zeb Pike
Fact: When Zebulon Pike attempted to climb what is now known as Pikes Peak, he got stuck in waist-deep snow and had to turn back.
That's the last thing Dusty Porter learns in his Colorado history class before appendicitis ruins his life. It isn't long before social services figures out that Dusty's parents are more myth than reality, and he and his siblings are shipped off to live in Vermont with an uncle and aunt they've never met.
Dusty's new life is a struggle. His brother and sister don't seem to need him anymore, and he can't stand his aunt and uncle. At school, one hockey player develops a personal vendetta against him, while Emmitt, another hockey player, is making it hard for Dusty to keep pretending he's straight. Problem is, he's pretty sure Emmitt’s not gay. Then, just when Dusty thinks things can't get any worse, his mother reappears, looking for a second chance to be a part of his life.
Somehow Zebulon Pike still got the mountain named after him, so Dusty's determined to persevere—but at what point in life do you keep climbing, and when do you give up and turn back?
Wow, what a great review! I find it very hard to review books that I like, but maybe didn't LOVE. You did a very good job in describing what you really liked, (what made you go do research, even!) and also the parts that you thought were slightly lacking. Elegant review, Timmy. Top marks. Makes me want to red this book, too.
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by Anna. I really did like the book. I just wished for more at the end, but maybe I will get lucky and get a second book.
DeleteTimmy
Terrific review, Timmy. I believe this type of review is the kind that authors find the most helpful. It helps them see what you loved about their book as well as things they could have done better to improve the story for their readers. It's always kudos to the author if you loved their characters so much that you want to know where their story goes from here. That shows the author she has created something that her readers care about. I'll put this one on my TBR list. Thanks for the recommendation, Timmy. Mel
ReplyDeleteShe's a great writer Mel. Her character's were awesome, I'm looking forward to more of her book. Thanks for reading my review and leaving a comment. It's nice to see people read the reviews. I hope to give people ideas on books to read.
DeleteTimmy
I'm so not surprised at what an insightful review this is. Well done Timmy. I hope you get a sequel. Some books just need a little bit more, but then I think that on most books I enjoyed :P
ReplyDeleteMoving this higher on my thinking about list <3
I hope I do get that sequel, Deeze, but even if I don't it was a worthy read. <3 Thanks for stopping by Cody's blog. Timmy
DeleteYou are a fantastic reviewer! You're honest, you described what you liked and also what you didn't without attacking the author. It's a true gift. I look forward to more of your reviews. I think I will give this a chance. Thank you very much!
ReplyDeleteYou should definitely give it a chance Kari. I would never attack an author, because more then anything, people need to remember that there is always a little of the author in their books. If you tear done their book, then you are tearing them down. I would never do that to a person. Also it's important to keep in mind that even if I didn't like something in a book, that doesn't mean other's might not like it. This however was a good book and I hope to read more for her.
DeleteTimmy
Would it ok to post part of what you said on FB? I think everyone needs to see this:
Delete"I would never attack an author, because more then anything, people need to remember that there is always a little of the author in their books. If you tear done their book, then you are tearing them down. I would never do that to a person."
I have seen some nasty reviews and I think what you said is a good reminder for all of us readers!
Yes you can.
DeleteLove it; thank you for sharing!!
ReplyDeleteThanks for reading. The reviews only work, because of the people willing to take the time to read them. <3
ReplyDeleteTimmy
Excellent, well-thought out review, Timmy! I like that you've clearly stated what worked for you and what didn't, and why. That you've also said what you felt about the book overall is really helpful when deciding if the book is likely to be one that I would be interested in (it is), so thank you for that as well.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad that my review was helpful to you in deciding if you wanted to read this book. I really think you'll like it. Maybe when you are done, you can help me beg for that sequel. :P
DeleteTimmy
Thanks for the review. I believe you did a wonderful job with the review. I can never get my words right to write a review. I loved that you told what you liked about the book and what you thought it needed Another book to add to my tbr book. Look forward to more of your book reviews. :)
ReplyDeleteThanks Denise! So glad you stopped by and I hope to see you again. <3
DeleteTimmy