Title: Dodging Satan: My Irish/Italian, Sometimes Awesome, But Mostly Creepy, Childhood
Author: Kathleen Zamboni McCormick
Published November 18, 2015
191 pages, Kindle Edition
Rating: 4.29
Overview
Step into the world of Bridget Flagherty, a young girl growing up in the 60s and 70s in the outskirts of Boston. Dodging Satan is a captivating and entertaining coming-of-age story that will have you laughing out loud and nodding your head in agreement.
Bridget’s Irish/Italian family life is far from perfect, but she finds solace in her quirky interpretations of Bible stories and Catholic beliefs. From sadistic nuns to domestic violence, Bridget uses her imagination to create supernatural worlds filled with exorcisms, bird relics, and even time travel.
While the nuns scold her for her slow eating habits and sinful “mathematical pride,” God seems to answer her prayers instantly. But at night, the devil visits her in the dark.
Follow Bridget as she navigates the complexities of emerging sexuality, abusive men, and the role of women in religion. With her Italian female relatives offering her a glimpse into a world of sensuality and glamour, Bridget prays that there’s more to life than becoming a nun.
Dodging Satan is a unique and refreshing take on the classic coming-of-age story, filled with humor, heartache, and the timeless struggle to find oneself.
About the Author
This professor has a wealth of experience in the higher education field. Their skills include academic advising, editing, journalism, public speaking, and curriculum development.
They hold a Ph.D. in English Language and Literature from The University of Connecticut, showcasing their dedication to their field.
Editoral Review
Lauren Barnholdt’s young adult novel, “The Thing About the Truth,” published on July 10, 2012, is a gripping story about the consequences of telling lies and keeping secrets. Barnholdt, a bestselling author of more than 30 books in the YA genre, weaves together a captivating tale with a blend of romance, humor, and drama.
In “The Thing About the Truth,” we follow the story of high school seniors, Kelsey Finkelstein and Isaac Weber, who find themselves tangled in a web of lies that threatens to ruin their friendship and future. Kelsey, a witty and sarcastic narrator, is eager to leave the small town of Orchard Hill and start afresh at college.
Isaac, on the other hand, is content with his life and has no plans of leaving. Their lives are turned upside down when a harmless lie spirals out of control, and the truth threatens to expose them.
Kelsey and Isaac must navigate their way through the aftermath of their deception, as their feelings for each other grow from friendship to something deeper. Meanwhile, their friends and family add to the drama and sprinkle their own secrets into the mix.
Barnholdt’s writing is sharp and engaging, with well-developed characters that feel like real teenagers. She captures the angst, joy, and confusion of young adults trying to figure out their place in the world.
The pacing is fast, and the plot twists and turns keep readers engaged from start to finish. The dialogue is witty and funny, making the story relatable and enjoyable.
Despite its YA label, “The Thing About the Truth” touches on universal themes of acceptance, forgiveness, and the consequences of our actions. The book highlights the importance of honesty and openness in relationships, and how fear and insecurity can drive us to make poor decisions.
Overall, “The Thing About the Truth” is an excellent read for anyone who enjoys YA fiction, romance, and coming-of-age stories. Although it may not be groundbreaking or original, Barnholdt’s writing shines through as a skilled storyteller who understands the teenage experience.
The book is recommended for ages 13 and up, as it deals with some mature themes like underage drinking and sexual situations. Rating: four out of five stars.
“The Thing About the Truth” is a well-written, entertaining, and thought-provoking novel that will leave readers reflecting on the choices they make and the truth they tell.
