Title: Freeing Carter
Author: Nyrae Dawn
First published July 17, 2012
155 pages, Nook
ISBN: 2940014968607
Rating: 3.81
Overview
Carter Shaw has always had to keep it together, no matter what. He’s had to help his mom run their store, take care of his special needs sister Sara, and be the perfect boyfriend for Mel.
Basketball is the only place where he feels free. He’s used to carrying his mom up the stairs when she’s too drunk to do it on her own, but he knows deep down that she has a problem.
Then Kira Dawson comes to town, with her ever-changing hairstyles and bipolar wardrobe. She sees the truths that Carter tries so hard to keep hidden from the world.
For the first time in his life, he wants someone to see his inner scars and really know him. But when his mom finally crosses a line, will Carter be able to man up and turn his back on her, even if it means breaking the façade he’s so carefully built?
Find out in Nyrae Dawn’s powerful novel, Freeing Carter.
About the Author
As someone who simply can’t get enough of YA fiction, I find myself constantly reading and writing about the lives of young adults. It’s a genre that always feels new and exciting, and I can’t help but be drawn to it.
Whether I’m lounging with a book in hand or typing away at my computer, I’m always immersed in this captivating world.
Of course, I’m not alone in my love for YA fiction. There are countless others out there who share my passion for this genre.
But for me, it’s not just a hobby – it’s a way of life. I’m based in Southern California, where I reside with my husband and two children.
Editoral Review
Freeing Carter is a romance novel written by Nyrae Dawn, first published on July 17, 2012. This book is categorized under the young adult genre, and it focuses on themes of family, friendship, betrayal, and forgiveness.
Nyrae Dawn is an American author who has written several bestselling books, including What a Boy Wants, Measuring Up, and Out of Play. The story follows the life of Carter, a high school student who is struggling with depression and anxiety after being abandoned by her mother.
She has a strained relationship with her father, who is always busy with work, and her sister, who is away at college. Carter’s only solace comes from her best friend Isaac, who has been by her side since childhood.
However, when Isaac starts dating Carter’s arch-nemesis, Ashlyn, Carter finds herself alone and vulnerable. The plot focuses on Carter’s journey towards healing and freedom.
She starts seeing a therapist who helps her deal with her abandonment issues and anxiety. She also meets Adam, a new student who is drawn to her intelligence and wit.
As she starts to open up to him, Carter realizes that there is more to life than her pain and suffering. She begins to confront her fears and start living for herself, not just for the sake of others.
The setting of the book is in a small town, where everyone knows everyone else’s business. The author does an excellent job of highlighting the isolation that Carter feels, despite living in a close-knit community.
The conflicts in the book are relatable, and the characters are well-developed. The protagonist is flawed but likable, and the supporting characters are memorable.
One of the strengths of this book is the author’s ability to portray mental health issues accurately. She gives insight into what it feels like to be in a constant state of anxiety and depression, and how it can impact one’s relationships and outlook on life.
The author’s writing style is also commendable, as she captures the emotions and inner turmoil of her characters in a relatable and engaging way. However, the pacing of the book could have been better, as some parts of the story feel rushed while others drag on.
Also, some of the conflicts in the book are resolved too easily and lack depth. Overall, Freeing Carter is an emotionally charged and relatable book that sheds light on mental health issues.
It is a book that young adults struggling with similar issues can relate to, and adults can appreciate the sensitive portrayal of these issues. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a heart-warming read.
Rating: 4/5
