Review: Take Me There by Carolee Dean
This was an emotionally intense read that was grounded in truth and hope, and I find myself thinking about it long after I finished the last page.
Dylan Dawson, adolescent teen who has found himself on the wrong side of the law too many times. Tired of living on the edge of life, Dylan along with his friend Wade try to start over and live clean. However, after a life full of bad choices and bad acquaintances trouble keeps finding them…This is the story of Dylan Dawson, the story of his hope and determination and his quest for truth.
This is by far one of the best realistic fiction books that I have read in a long time. It is not pretty, and is quite sad at times. The book is told honestly and truthfully, while broaching topics like the death penalty, gang violence, dysfunctional families and learning differences. You come away feeling that what you read was real and it sticks with you.
I also enjoyed the way the story was told, going from past to present with sprinkles of his fathers story in between. You get some of the back story to understand the present.
This book is full of well developed, fleshed out characters. From best friend Wade, to Gomez, to Jesse to Dylan Sr. They all are so well written and weaved together perfectly to tell a believable story. Main character Dylan Dawson is about as real and gritty as it gets. He’s made bad choices in the past, yet he has owned up to them and tries to make up for them by turning his life around by staying out of trouble. His determination is inspiring.
Dylan Sr. (Dylan’s dad) is one those characters that I did not fully understand till the very end. Despite his being on death row he is honorable, making him an endearing character. He is the light and hope which Dylan seeks, and Dylan Sr offers those things in a very surprising way.
While this book does not offer any answers other than hope, it can be life changing and alter people’s perception of kids with learning differences.
I give this book 5 STACKS
See you in the STACKS,
Stacy – who thinks not only should teens read this book, but also all school administrators, teachers and parents.
Thanks for the review! I’m definitely putting it on my wishlist now, because I love that this book explores more serious topics. And I can’t get enough of that cover!
Thanks for the review. I think this is actually the first one I’ve read, so I’m glad it’s a good one.
My copy of this arrived today, and I can’t wait to get stuck in. I must admit the synopsis made me think Perfect Chemistry, though this sounds a lot more serious.
Great review. This was one of the most powerful books I’ve ever read.
You’re review was so beautiful, it almost made me cry.
Awww, thanks Carolee Dean!!!
[...] For more information on Caorlee Dean and to read a deleted scene from the book check out her site. To read my review of Take Me There click here. [...]
[...] Unit (who knew??) and more specifically we talked about Take Me There. (We hearted the book, read Stacy’s review and listen to our [...]
Reminded me a bit of the Outsiders by S.E. Hinton. A fantastic read. Well done.