Just Call My Name

Gr 8 Up—After 10 years on the run with their paranoid schizophrenic father, brothers Sam and Riddle have found a home with Emily's family. Sam enrolls in school after a long hiatus, and Riddle emerges from his protective shell. Sam and Emily's burgeoning relationship is tenderly romantic in its authenticity. The boy finally breathes a sigh of relief—but should he? Their father, Clarence, has escaped from jail with plans of revenge. Newcomer Destiny, figuratively and literally, sets her sights on Sam and is taking no prisoners. What should have been the summer of love for the young couple ends in a dramatic confrontation with the violent Clarence. Fans of Sloan's I'll Be There (Little, Brown, 2011) will be thrilled to be reunited with Sam, Riddle, and Emily in this immensely satisfying, heartfelt, and lyrical sequel. The author's simplistic writing style allows readers to connect intimately with the characters and makes for a truly compelling novel. The only flaw in an otherwise outstanding book is a too-tidy ending. Sloan succeeds in skillfully combining the tenderness of young love, various distinct voices, and fast-paced action. Teens need not have read the first book to understand the protagonists' background, appreciate where they are, and hope for the best for their bright futures.—Laura Falli, McNeil High School, Austin, TX