Anything But Ordinary by Lara Avery-OPTIONAL

Avery, Lara, Anything but Ordinary. Hyperion, 2012. Pgs. 336. Language: PG, Violence: PG, Sexual Content: PG

17yo Bryce Graham is an excellent diver and so is her boyfriend, Greg and best friend, Gabby.  A dive gone wrong during Olympic Trials makes Bryce hit her head on the side of the pool instead of landing in the water. When she wakes up, she finds out the yesterday she remembers was 5 years ago and she’s been in a coma ever since that day. The 12yo sister she remembers is now an out-of-control 17yo. Her boyfriend is engaged to her best friend, and a medical student named Carter has fallen in love with her. To make matters worse, now Bryce is finding herself experiences brief, painful experience of future, tragic events. Unfortunately, such experiences seem to be linked to her brain slowly dying from lack of oxygen  Can Bryce’s courage, tenacity, and stubbornness help her to cope and adjust to her new life? Will Bryce learn to use her new powers for good before it’s too late?

Avery portrays this premise in a believable way that readers will like. Although the paranormal is more in the background than paranormal fans will like, the characters are genuine and likable. Their growth is significant and their emotions are real. The plot is complex and a little confusing in parts, but the ending is satisfying. Readers who like stories about growth, self-discovery, and friendship will enjoy reading this book. MS, HS. OPTIONAL. Reviewer: Kira M, Youth Services Librarian, WHI Public Library.