Catherine C. (c-squared) reviewed on 6/7/2013 + 181 more book reviews

This is science fiction lite, which is completely fine with me. Although the story is obviously shaped by the fact that the earth's rotation is slowing for unknown reasons, and all the many repercussions of that change, underneath it all, this is a coming-of-age story.

The story begins when Julia is eleven, on the day people realize the earth's rotation is slowing, that a full day is now closer to 25 hours. The main action takes place within that first year as the days continue to lengthen, but with heavy, heavy foreshadowing: everything from how long it would be until she saw her friend again to the last time she ate pineapple or grapes. To be honest, it got on my nerves. But that was the main detraction from the novel, so I can't complain too much.

Overall, it was a sweet, sad story about growing up and finding your place in the world. I like Julia -- her awkwardness, her inability to fake it just to fit in. Apparently, this isn't intended for younger readers (I found it shelved in new adult fiction at the library), but I think a lot of middle schoolers could really relate to Julia. (There's one f-bomb that I remember -- said by another 11-year-old and seriously deserved in my opinion -- but otherwise the language and content is very tame.)

Back to all reviews by this member
Back to all reviews of this book
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details