Just Listen

Details

Title: Just Listen

Author: Sarah Dessen

Publisher: Penguin Group Incorporated

Publication Year: 2006

Language: English

Genre: Young Adults

Rating: 9/10

Continuation: No continuation yet.

Pages: 383

Review

Just Listen is the story of Annabel Greene, who appears to have it all. But her life is falling apart. A spat with her best friends leaves her lonely at the beginning of the year, her peace at home is destroyed due to her sister's eating disorder and she is hesitant to admit her lack of enthusiasm for her modeling career. Amidst all this, she meets Owen Armstrong. With the help of the reformed bad-boy with an obsession with music and a commitment to telling the truth, Annabel may finally start telling herself the truth. This book is certainly a wonderful read. The storyline covers several relevant issues without making the book seem 'stuffed'. There are references to eating disorders, modeling, music - a major element in this book, anger management, high school dynamics, family relationships, truthfulness and several others.  The characters were few, but very well developed, making it easier for the reader to empathize and connect with them. Annabel's dirty secrets under a perfect exterior, make the reader realize that nothing in life is perfect. That flaws exist in every person. This quality of the protagonist brings in an element of realism. Owen's character is labelled as a loser, yet his character's integrity and actions makes the reader fall in love with him. This displays another element of realism. Labels are unnecessary, but a routine part of high school. Owen's character can easily be related to by an average teenager.  The most satisfying part of the book was the fact that all ends were tied up. I personally find it frustrating when elements of the book remain incomplete, as this makes me uneasy and forces me to ponder over it. This, of course, is a personal opinion and each reader has a different preference.  The element of romance introduced spiced up the plot and made the characters come to life. The only bone I have to pick with the story is the abundance of musical references. While most are well placed and make the plot interesting, there are a few which leave the reader confused. These references are quite advanced and if the reader does not share Owen's passion for music, he might find the plot quite mundane. Despite this jarring note, I found the novel quite riveting and will certainly recommend it to young adults, especially females given the romantic element.