Annie LeBlanc Is Not Dead Yet

Gr 9 Up–What if you could bring a loved one back to life, even if it was just temporary? Morris explores this question in a coming-of-age story that tackles life, love, loss, and friendship with a good bit of humor, too. In the small town of Lennon, CA, the Welcome Back lottery allows one person the chance to bring back someone from the afterlife for just 30 days. Wilson chooses her best friend, Annie, in hopes to make right their estranged relationship prior to Annie’s tragic death. When Wil discovers a loophole that could allow Annie to stay for good, she devises a plan to mend the rift between Annie and their third BFF, Ryan. With the clock ticking, are these three friends prepared to confront the feelings of betrayal, loneliness, and deeper emotions of love and attraction that led to their separation? The novel is a charming, mostly realistic story with a supernatural twist. True fantasy fans may feel frustration with a lack of explanation behind worldbuilding; however, character development makes up for any unanswered questions.