Review Detail

The story begins with Maya, a junior in high school in a psychiatric facility. We learn that Maya has a gift of hearing other people's thoughts. It was the gift of hearing the overwhelming thoughts that caused Maya to suffer a mental breakdown, leading to her admission to the psychiatric facility.

The real heart of the story is when Maya is released and has to learn how to adjust to her life after the mental breakdown and how to use her gift for good. The story explores more than just teenage issues and challenges you to take a closer look at the workings of society and life itself.

What I Liked: The premise of the book is unique and intriguing. I often wondered how I would react to something if I was in that situation in Maya's shoes. From academic anxieties to college admissions to body image struggles and the relentless pursuit of athletic glory, Wendy Wunder does an excellent job conveying the overwhelming pressures teenagers face today. It certainly makes you empathetic to what Maya has to deal with.

What Left Me Wanting More: In the beginning, the story felt slow-paced. It took about fifty pages before the story began to unfold.  Additionally, the story juggles multiple character perspectives, which at times can feel overwhelming, but it is ultimately rewarding.

Mysterious Ways will appeal to readers seeking a novel that goes beyond your typical YA novel.