Jellicoe Road, by Melina Marchetta
Reviewed by Paige, age 16, Pennsylvania
There are many things to love about Jellicoe Road, but here are a few main ones. I loved the whole mystery of the story, and how readers have to sort of figure things out for themselves. The two absorbing, captivating, and lyrical stories put together into one draw the reader in and create suspense and secrecy. The main character, Taylor, was also very realistic, and I loved her voice, personality, and back story. You easily fall in love with the romance that takes place in Jellicoe Road; it was just the right amount to keep the reader satisfied. This is one of those novels where, after you finish it, you sit there stunned and in awe.
Jellicoe Road also had me questioning if it was very believable. I don't think boarding schools really have territory wars, but who knows? Taylor, however, was a very real main character and her past made this story more believable. Everyone had their own story to share, so I thought it was great. None of the characters were average or static; they could very easily be real people with their own problems like us.
Melina Marchetta also has a beautiful, flowing writing style that keeps you mesmerized the whole way through. She is a genius.
All you lovers of YA Contemporary, go read this book! I don't know why I put off reading it so long, but I am so glad I finally did. Like I said above, Jellicoe Road will leave you in shock and tug at the strings of your heart. You'll find yourself rooting for the characters and dying to find out the mystery along with them. I definitely recommend it to everyone.
I give Jellicoe Road 5 out of 5 stars! It is a must-read!