"We often feel that we must say what we must say. It's also crucial, however, to listen to other voices. Listening, I think, is the best way to learn about those who differ from you. Reading is a form of listening."
From the author's notes at the end of this book, and what a great, powerful message. Stars is the debut novel from author Moore, and this story of 12-year-old Lolly, growing up in New York City and trying to navigate life, choices, friends, enemies, family...all in the course of about a year. At times I found Moore's writing a little jumpy, as he wrote to mimic Lolly's thoughts, which don't always flow from one topic to the next smoothly. But this jumpiness was infrequent, and didn't take away from my understanding of Lolly or his story.
One of the author's praising the book wrote that the characters will stay with you, and they do. A very strong first book by a talented author. I look forward to reading more of Moore's books in the future. Not yet a Walter Dean Myers, Jason Reynolds or Jacqueline Woodson, he may well be headed that direction - a good voice in the diversity of teen books that is still so desperately needed.
I give this a strong 4 paws!
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