September's book to read is OUT OF THE EASY, by Ruta Sepetys.
When I opened OUT OF THE EASY, by Ruta Sepetys, I wasn't sure what to expect. The author's first book, Between Shades of Gray, was based on a family history, and it seemed so passionate. And so perfect! It was truly a wonderful novel, well written and rewarding to read. I wondered how she would follow up that stunning achievement.
OUT OF THE EASY is a very different kind of story. New Orleans in the 1950s is a long way from 1939 Lithuania. But, like her first book, this one has strong characters, and a compelling plot line. I loved Josie from the very beginning, and think her introduction to Willie (and to us) makes for a wonderful chapter. Even though her circumstances are difficult, Josie is smart and street smart, and she stays true to herself, even when things get rough. I found the supporting characters to be well drawn, and enjoyed my time with them all. I got nicely choked up at the end, and find myself sorry that I'm not still reading this book.
That said, I don't think I would call it a "perfect" book. It felt a bit long to me, in a rambly sort of way--I'm not sure if we needed all of the space devoted to Charlie's illness--it would probably have been a more focused, streamlined novel without it. I bring this up because, on the one hand, I appreciate the perfection that readers have come to expect since Louis Sachar's brilliant Holes was published, where every plot point ties in with every other, and there are no loose ends. But then a book like this comes along, and I really do enjoy the "messiness," and I mean that in the very best way. I didn't mind a minute I spent in this world, and was never bored by the long trips to Shady Grove, though they did seem to elongate the novel.
How do you feel about OUT OF THE EASY? Is it a worthy follow-up to Between Shades of Gray? Does it stand on its own merits? If you were the editor, would you want to change anything?
I am satisfied that this is a writer to continue reading.
--Lynn
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