Review Detail

Reader reviewed by Sara

"Annabel Greene is the girl who has everything. At least that's who she plays in the commercial for Kopf's Department Store: top student, popular cheerleader, dazzling prom queen surrounded by friends. In real life Annabel is the girl who ahs nothing: no best friend since her friendship with mean-but-exciting Sophie ended with malicious rumors flying, no peace at home while her older sister's eating disorder preoccupies the family, and no ability to tell anyone what's on her mind. And then she meets Owen Armstrong - intense, obsessed with music, and determined to tell the truth, no matter what the consequences. Can a girl who hates confrontation find a way to connect with a guy who thrives on it? And can Annabel find the courage to tell what really happened the night she and Sophie stopped being friends?"

Sarah Dessen is one of the first young adult authors I ever read and I was instantly hooked. She knows how to appeal to teen readers, finding a way to connect with everyone. Just Listen is her most recently published book and, once again, it is fantastic. Annabel is a character that most everyone can relate to. Many teen girls have been estranged from people they love at one time or another, whether it was friends or family. Annabel gives readers courage to face their fears of confronting people and solve their problems. Owen is a good love interest, giving Annabel the strength she needs and introducing her to a whole new world.