Tuesday, August 24, 2021

Out of the Fire by Andrea Contos - NO

Out of the Fire by Andrea Contos
, 323 pages. Scholastic Press, 2021. $17

 Language: R (80 swears, 35 ‘f’); Mature Content: PG-13 (sexting mentioned, sexual abuse briefly mentioned, teens making out and smoking); Violence: PG (Dead body, fights and guns)

 BUYING ADVISORY: MS, HS - NOT RECOMMENDED 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: LOW 

Ever since 17yo Cassandra Adams was kidnapped 5 months ago, her life took a turn for the worst. Not to mention, 3 months ago her mother disappeared, not wanting to be found. While she narrowly escaped her kidnappers grasp, she didn't have any clue who it was or why they choose her to kidnap. Lost and confused, Cassandra meets three other girls who understand what it's like to be misunderstood and there a friendship is made. 

Contos tries, but ultimately fails, to create a novel of suspension and mystery. I found that every plot twist was predictable and sadly this book had more plot holes then twists. I liked how it discusses topics of misogyny, abuse and racism and how victims are often marginalized and ignored. I just didn't feel for any of the characters - I didn't sympathize for any of them. Each of them was forgettable and bland. Out of the Fire is a lower than average book with a weak plot and even weaker characters. 

 Kenzie Hoehne, 11th grade, student reviewer 

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