NOT Anything by Carmen Rodrigues

In the six years since her mother's tragic death, Susie Shannon seems to have withdrawn from the world, relying on only her best friend Marisol and her mother, and occasionally her absent-minded father to keep plowing though life. She's sad most of the time, and painfully shy, only truly coming alive with Marisol. Then her favorite teacher asks her to tutor Danny Diaz, a popular junior. Reluctantly, Susie agrees. She is shocked by Danny's easygoing nature and even more surprised when he seem eager to become her friend. Slowly, Danny draws her out of her shell, setting off a series of sudden and fast paced events that culminate in a massive blow out with the people Susie loves most. Things can never go back to the way they were…

NOT Anything was a surprisingly absorbing read. Susie is a freshly realistic character, and her indecision and grief are tangible. The captivating, witty, and honest dialogue easily propels the reader through the book. Rodrigues writes with a confidence that proves she knows teenagers and the emotions that being a teen often entails. Full of mistakes, regrets, forgiveness, humor, and love, NOT Anything is one rewarding read.

This book will be available from Berkeley Jam (An Imprint of Penguin Group USA) on February 5, 2008. The sequel, A Little Something, will be available in July!

Also, a cool new site has been brought to my attention: Girl Kibitz! If you would like to read about more than just books for a change, check this site out! Advice, product evaluations, recommendations....what more could a girl ask for? Check it out!