Living with Jackie Chan

Though Living with Jackie Chan is a companion novel to Jumping Off Swings, it stands on its own as a winning story about forgiveness and human connection. Josh’s attempt to tough out his agonizing guilt, rather than approach it head on, is relatable (though ineffective). Readers will appreciate his vulnerability and root for him to find a resolution. Larry, Josh’s uncle, is a standout character whose exuberance and silliness keep the story lighthearted. His cornball sense of humor and persistent cheerfulness sometimes embarrass Josh, as when Larry includes an inspirational note in Josh’s lunch. But their relationship is warm and moving. As Josh takes karate lessons from Larry and then becomes a teacher himself, the martial art becomes an elegant means for Josh to find some measure of peace. After one early lesson, Josh says, “The thing about doing katas with the class is that it’s sort of like a dance, where everyone is in sync . . . I never in a million years thought I would be the type of guy who would be into something like this. But when I’m moving with everyone else, I feel like I’m part of something.” A charming, flirtatious friendship develops between Josh and Stella, a neighbor girl who also takes karate lessons from Larry—and is involved in an abusive relationship. Stella’s insistence on standing by her boyfriend, even as she sees that Josh treats her better, provides an engaging counterpoint to Josh’s difficult emotional journey. In the uplifting conclusion, Stella and Josh help each other move past trauma and toward recovery.