Title: Deep Green: Color Me Jealous
Author: Melody Carlson
First published January 1, 2004
208 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9781576835302 (ISBN10: 1576835308)
Rating: 3.67
Overview
In Melody Carlson’s latest installment of the TrueColors series, Deep Green: Color Me Jealous, we follow the story of Jordan Ferguson and Shawna Frye as they navigate the treacherous waters of high school popularity and relationships. Jordan and Shawna were once the best of friends, but when Timothy breaks Shawna’s heart to be with Jordan, everything changes.
Shawna seeks revenge by spreading rumors about Jordan and tempting Timothy with an irresistible offer. Jordan is consumed with envy and contemplates doing anything to win Timothy back, even if it means sacrificing her own integrity.
This novel explores the dark side of jealousy and the consequences of our actions in relationships. Discussion questions are included, making this a perfect read for teens looking to explore the complexities of love and friendship.
About the Author
Melody Carlson has established herself as a prolific and celebrated author, having written over 200 books. She has penned several Christmas novellas for Revell, with The Christmas Bus being one of her most popular and beloved works.
In addition to this, she has also written a number of books catered towards teenagers, such as the TrueColors series, the Carter House Girls series, and the Diary of a Teenage Girl series.
For her contributions to the literary world, Melody has been recognized with a nomination for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market. Her books have resonated with readers, with her Notes from a Spinning Planet series and Finding Alice being adapted into a Lifetime Television movie.
Melody and her husband are also committed to serving their community, as they both actively participate in the Young Life adult committee in central Oregon.
Editoral Review
“Deep Green: Color Me Jealous” by Melody Carlson is a young adult novel that explores the themes of jealousy, loyalty, and forgiveness. Carlson is a prolific author of young adult fiction, best known for her “Diary of a Teenage Girl” series.
The protagonist of “Deep Green” is Jordan Ferguson, a high school student who is jealous of her best friend, Julissa, for being popular and dating the boy that Jordan has a crush on. Jordan’s jealousy leads her to make bad decisions that put her friendships and future at risk.
The setting of “Deep Green” is a small town in the Pacific Northwest, where Jordan’s family owns an eco-friendly business. The environmental themes of the book are woven into the plot, as Jordan becomes more aware of the impact that her actions have on the planet and the people around her.
One of the strengths of “Deep Green” is its realistic portrayal of teenage friendships and relationships. Carlson captures the small moments of insecurity and competitiveness that can drive a wedge between even the closest of friends.
The characters feel like real teenagers, with authentic emotions and motivations. However, the pacing of the book is slow at times, and the plot feels predictable.
The conflict between Jordan and Julissa is familiar territory for young adult fiction, and there are few surprises along the way. The environmental themes of the book are a welcome addition, but they sometimes feel shoehorned into the story.
Overall, “Deep Green: Color Me Jealous” is a solid young adult novel that will resonate with readers who have struggled with jealousy and the complexities of teenage friendships. It is not groundbreaking, but it is an enjoyable and well-written book that is worth reading.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars. While “Deep Green” has its flaws, it is a well-crafted and relatable young adult novel that is worth checking out.
