"In every friendship, at some point comes a test. Never before in my experience, however, had i

The book was so cute! I loved it even though I'm not normally a fan of contemporary books. 7 jellybeans. It's a fun book if you're in a reading slump.

Sydney Stranford has lived her whole life in the shadow of her older brother Peyton. But after he starts going to high school and becoming the big shot, things take a turn downhill. Peyton is constantly getting into trouble with the law. He does drugs, drinks under the legal age, trespasses on private property, breaks and enters, and is finally getting a hold of himself when one night Peyton stays out too late drinking. On his way home, Peyton's car crashes into an unsuspecting David Ibarra.

Sydney decides to switch schools to get away from the unwanted attention. And it's after her first day of school that she meets the most amazing family, the Chathams. It's the first time Sydney can start to really feel truly accepted, and she all too gladly tankles herself up in their warm, fuzzy, chaotic lives. Sydney feels visible, not just a shade of someone's existence. It's something she never had with Peyton around, but her parents are still hesitant on trusting Sydney not to fall prey to her brother's mistakes.

I generally feel positively towards this story. Layla is awesome, Mac is adorable and protective, Eric is hilarious, and so many of the characters easily drew me in. The story was taken over a large amount of time, so certain points in the book felt a little drawn out. The direction of the story was continuous, though, and I found myself enjoying the story.

I don't know if this is the same with other Sarah Dessen books, but Saint Anything only had one main conflicting problem: her brother's affects. It felt as if the story was based around how Sydney has to live and deal with what Peyton has done. Her parents don't act as liberal because of Peyton. Her stress is all results of Peyton. And when she finds a friend who has had the same issues with an older sister, Sydney immediately gravitates towards her. There weren't any other large issues concerning school or friendship because Sydney always had her brother's mistakes nagging at the back of her mind. I get it, but it made the book a little flatter.

The beginning was a little slow. When I first picked up the book, I wasn't too thrilled by Sydney's character because she wasn't very driven. She was obedient, and she didn't have interesting friends. Of course, as soon as the Chathams become this warm presence in her life, I loved it. Sydney developed well and became more independent. It just takes a little patience.

The mom was annoying. I understood her motives, but just barely. Even after meeting the Chathams, she didn't trust them. She would still invite Ames over, and I had to keep reminding myself how stressed she was and worried about Peyton. Otherwise her decisions seemed rediculous and naive. But again, it was relatable, which is not always something that can be said about a parent-figure. I could see my mom acting the same way or even me if my younger brother was in this sort of situation.

My recommendation would go to John Green fans. If you like realistic fiction with teenagers that have a sense of humor and an attitude, you'll enjoy Saint Anything. If you're in a reading slump (we've all been there), than this cute contemporary might get you back into the swing of things. You don't have to be the biggest realistic fiction fan to enjoy this book.

Formula: Family + Reprecussions + Secrets + High School = French Fries

#katie #realistic #sassy