What Happened to Goodbye
by Sarah Dessen
What Happened to Goodbye was my first Sarah Dessen read; I'd heard many good things about her writings, but this book's synopsis in particular appealed to me. A teenager, estranged from her mother, hops from school to school wherever her father's assignments take them. At each location, she assumes a new identity, exploring the typical "fresh start" as a cheerleader, honor student, etc.
I found the main character very likable and relatable, which was a tricky task for Dessen, since on the surface she might appear to be dishonest, shallow, and heartless. However, Dessen subtly explains her character's behavior, from the simplest of problems to her very deep insecurities and conflicts with her mother, and quickly wins the reader over.
This was a very enjoyable novel, one that I plan to re-read many times in the future. Although it took place in a high school setting, I didn't really look at it as a Young Adult book, since most of the protagonist's problems could have occurred at any age. If you've ever longed for a fresh start, or struggled with the fear that others won't like you once they find out who you really are, this is the book for you.
I found the main character very likable and relatable, which was a tricky task for Dessen, since on the surface she might appear to be dishonest, shallow, and heartless. However, Dessen subtly explains her character's behavior, from the simplest of problems to her very deep insecurities and conflicts with her mother, and quickly wins the reader over.
This was a very enjoyable novel, one that I plan to re-read many times in the future. Although it took place in a high school setting, I didn't really look at it as a Young Adult book, since most of the protagonist's problems could have occurred at any age. If you've ever longed for a fresh start, or struggled with the fear that others won't like you once they find out who you really are, this is the book for you.