Review Detail

Reader reviewed by MssJos

I have been hearing about Sarah Dessen non-stop lately so despite my preconceived notions that her novels were full of mushy fluff aimed at pre-teens, I picked up Just Listen on my last library visit. I must say, I was pleasantly surprised at the depth of the novel and the severity of the topics covered.

Annabel Greene is in a particulary difficult situation that many young adults may find themselves in during middle and/or high school. Due to a misunderstanding with a friend, Annabel has gone from a popular girl to an outcast instantly.

While Annabel may appear to have it all, a successful modeling career, two beautiful sisters, and some quirky adolescents that look up to her, she is suffering silently inside. (Note-Annabel literally lives in a glass house, which was a little Dessen-esque from what I hear) Annabel is selfless to a fault. Readers learn towards the end of the novel that Annabel has had an extremely traumatic experience, but is keeping quiet to keep from upsetting her (ex)friends and family. Determined to keep the peace at home despite her older sister's life-threatening eating disorder, Annabel consistently places her own needs last. Annabel struggles throughout the novel with the concepts of honesty, courage, and expressing her emotions. Fortunately, she receives help from some unlikely sources, one being Owen Armstrong, a mysterious music-obsessed male classmate with anger management issues.

After carrying the world on her shoulders, Annabel must learn to stand up for herself by confronting some of her deepest, darkest feelings. Through Owen and Annabel's encounters, Dessen reminds adolescents that sometimes honesty really is the best policy, and when you feel trapped with no alternatives, only the truth will set you free.