The Miles Between by Mary E. Pearson

Destiny Faraday is looking for one perfect day. One day where everything will add up to something that is right. She's been shuffled from boarding school to boarding school, unwanted by her parents, and she learns to withdraw from everyone else, to not get attached. Except on this day, October 19th, she inexplicably finds herself in a car with three of her classmates, the road stretching before them, leaving everything to chance.

The Miles Between is a novel full of coincidences, friendship, hurt, and healing. Though a little hard to get into at first, Destiny's story soon comes grabs on to the reader and doesn't let go until you find exactly what she is looking for. The characters are funny and real, and make this a completely entertaining and down to earth read, and their perfect day is one that everyone dreams of having. Destiny's search for herself and acceptance is memorable and poignant; it'll make you laugh and cry in the same minute. Though her character seemed a bit odd in the beginning, she makes much more sense towards the end of the book, which is when she really comes to life, and her journey is eccentric and amusing. Pearson wraps up the book in a clever way that doesn't seem contrived, and will make readers smile in satisfaction. This uplifting read is one of Pearson's best yet.

Cover Comments: I like elements of this cover a lot. I love the view of the teens from below with the sky as the backdrop; I think it is a really neat effect and captures the mood of the book. However, I loathe the title treatment! It's too cartoon-ish, and the yellow color just seems to come out of nowhere, and I think it makes the book cover look less professional! I much prefer the title from the ARC, pictured below. Other than the title, the cover is fantastic...just please stay away from bright yellow, cartoon fonts from now on, Henry Holt! Please!