The 9:09 Project by Mark H. Parsons
Published by Delacorte on October 18, 2022
ISBN: 0593309758
Pages: 320
Genres: Realistic Fiction
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads

“The 9:09 Project” by Mark H. Parsons is a young adult novel about Jamison, a teen boy whose mother died a few years ago. He worries that he is forgetting her, so he begins an art project where he takes photos at 9:09pm every day at the same place. Parsons’ description of the photos and the way that Jamison uses photography to form relationships and connections with other people keep the novel interesting and compelling.

The themes of grief and healing are woven throughout. I was initially worried that the book would be very depressing, but while it is sad, the author keeps the reader interested in Jamison’s journey as his photos lead him to discover his true self. Written for teens and young adults, this book is a suggested purchase for libraries where YA realistic fiction is popular.

Reviewed by Kate Radke, Walker Memorial Library, Westbrook, ME.