Book Review: Saint Anything by Sarah Dessen

I rated it 4 out of 5 stars.

Overview: Peyton, Sydney's charismatic older brother, has always been the star of the family, receiving the lion's share of their parents' attention and—lately—concern. When Peyton's increasingly reckless behavior culminates in an accident, a drunk driving conviction, and a jail sentence, Sydney is cast adrift, searching for her place in the family and the world. When everyone else is so worried about Peyton, is she the only one concerned about the victim of the accident?

Enter the Chathams, a warm, chaotic family who run a pizza parlor, play bluegrass on weekends, and pitch in to care for their mother, who has multiple sclerosis. Here Sydney experiences unquestioning acceptance. And here she meets Mac, gentle, watchful, and protective, who makes Sydney feel seen, really seen, for the first time.

The uber-popular Sarah Dessen explores her signature themes of family, self-discovery, and change in her twelfth novel, sure to delight her legions of fans.

Review: Dessen is the Queen of YA Contemporary. I remember being introduced to her books by my best friend at the time in high school. I was forever in love after that. The last few of Dessen's books haven't been my favorite. But the way Dessen writes, so readable but poignant with an engaging story filled with meaning, you can never really go wrong. With Saint Anything, Dessen really got her mojo back. A story about falling in love, being your own person, commitment to friendships, and a family healing. All good stuff to be found in a YA.

If you're looking for a good contemporary, this one is it. Though be prepared, you might be craving fries after reading this ;)

My only qualm with this book was the intro. Tons of backstory that I think could have been weaved in later on. But on the plus side, the contemplation of guilt and sense of loneliness really does hit you right off the bat that compels you to read.

Saint Anything definitely falls on the higher spectrum of my favorite Dessen books, but so far The Truth about Forever and Just Listen are still my favorites.