Title: Freefall
Author: Mindi Scott
First published October 5, 2010
315 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9781442402782 (ISBN10: 1442402784)
Rating: 3.75
Overview
In Mindi Scott’s Freefall, Seth McCoy is left grappling with the aftermath of his best friend’s death. With the weight of guilt bearing down on him, he is faced with the daunting task of either succumbing to his grief or finding a way to make things right.
As he navigates this tumultuous period in his life, Seth encounters Rosetta – a mysterious girl whose enigmatic nature draws him in. But as he begins to unravel the secrets surrounding Rosetta, Seth realizes that he may not be the only one in need of saving.
Will he be able to find redemption for himself and those around him? Find out in this poignant coming-of-age novel.
About the Author
Mindi Scott is a writer who resides in the vicinity of Seattle, Washington, USA, along with her husband who happens to be a drummer. They live in a house that does not have a soundproof basement.
Her debut novel, Freefall, was published in 2010 by Simon Pulse. Her second novel, Live Through This, was also published by Simon Pulse in 2012.
Mindi also contributed a chapter to Violent Ends, which is a collaborative novel co-written by 17 young adult authors. The book was released in 2015.
In 2016, she co-wrote a novel called The Way Back to You with Michelle Andreani. Jim McCarthy of Dystel & Goderich represents her.
Editoral Review
Freefall by Mindi Scott is a captivating novel that explores the challenges and complexities of teenage life. Published on October 5, 2010, the novel is categorized as young adult fiction that addresses sensitive topics such as love, loss, mental health and addiction.
The story follows seventeen-year-old Seth McCoy, who is still struggling to come to terms with his sister’s death two years earlier. Suffering from depression and feelings of guilt, Seth turns to drugs and alcohol to cope.
However, his life takes a dramatic turn when he meets Rosetta, a new student in his school, and starts to develop feelings for her. Through his relationship with her, Seth begins to see a glimmer of hope for the future and starts to confront his demons.
Mindi Scott displays an astute understanding of the trials and tribulations of young people through her writing. She masterfully interweaves the themes of grief, love, and recovery to create a poignant and relatable story.
The characters are well-rounded and realistic, their struggles genuine, and their actions understandable, making the reader empathize with the situations they face. The novel’s insightful portrayal of mental health is also commendable.
Scott handles the topic with sensitivity and maturity, debunking the stigma and misunderstanding that surrounds mental illness. Moreover, she addresses the importance of seeking help and the positive impact it can have on one’s life.
Although the pacing of the novel is uneven at times, and the plot lacks the high stakes that most readers expect from a young adult novel, Scott’s strength lies in her character development. She captures Seth’s internal turmoil and inner thoughts so well that the reader develops a profound emotional connection with him throughout the entire story.
Freefall can be compared to works such as Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher, Turtles All the Way Down by John Green, and All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven. The novels share similar themes and tackle complex issues that young adults face.
In conclusion, Freefall by Mindi Scott is an exceptional work of young adult fiction that deserves to be read. Mindi Scott’s beautiful prose and distinct voice leave a long-lasting impact on the reader.
The novel offers a compelling message of hope and resilience to those struggling with grief and mental illness. It is a poignant story that can inspire readers to seek help in their own lives.
The Washington Post gives Freefall by Mindi Scott four stars out of five for its poignant storytelling, genuine characters, and sensitive depiction of mental health issues.