This Is What It Feels Like

This Is What It Feels LikeThis Is What It Feels Like by Rebecca Barrow
Published by HarperTeen on November 6th 2018
ISBN: 0062494236
Pages: 400
Goodreads
four-stars

Upon graduation from high school, three friends put their differences behind them enter their band in the Sun City Originals music contest. Hanna, a recovering alcoholic, has some fences to mend with friends Jules and Dia. The narrative alternates between past events and the present to reveal conflicts that led the friends to become estranged. Dia is a strong character who works hard to support her baby daughter while Jules is trying to move on after the recent breakup with her girlfriend. The diverse characters are strong role models, especially for female readers. Themes of friendship, love and forgiveness make this a story that will resonate with teens.

Cathy Potter, Falmouth Middle School

four-stars