Cathy’s Book by Sean Stewart and Jordan Weisman
Review by: Lauren
Buy from Amazon (paperback edition here): http://www.amazon.com/Cathys-Book-Found-Call-266-8233/dp/0762433469/ref=pd_cp_b_1
Series: Yes, this is the first in a three-part (so far at least…) series!
Summary: Things weren’t so peachy in Cathy’s life before Victor broke up with her. Her father died unexpectedly, she’s failing school, and her best friend is mad at her. But when Cathy decides to investigate Victor’s reasons for ending their relationship, things suddenly go from bad to very, very, very bad as her findings produce more questions than answers. For instance, what does the death of Victor’s co-worker, the strange mark that appeared on Cathy’s arm, and the surreal behavior of several Chinese elders have to do with it?
Review: I’d wanted to read Cathy’s Book for awhile as it always stuck out at the bookstore. I’m very glad I finally sat down and gave it a shot because it hooks you right away and I can’t wait to start the next two in the series now (Cathy’s Key and Cathy’s Ring). Cathy is a hilarious character that never seems able to stay out of trouble…but you really just have to love her for it as her friend Emma figures out.
Cathy’s Book really is something that you don’t just read you actually experience it! The novel is essentially the story that Cathy is writing to her friend Emma, so you get her thoughts as she goes along trying to figure out the mystery as well as her lovely drawings on each page, which really added to the story, I must say!
If you’re not on top of what these books are all about, then I should mention the little packet inside the front of the book. It’s the “evidence” that Cathy collects throughout the book and gives to Emma. It’s a lot of fun and anther reason that this book is all about experiencing it and not just going through the pages and reading about the adventures Cathy goes on. The packet has a few pictures, some letters, and other cards/notes/etc. One example is a letter that Cathy gets from Victor’s uncle…Victor (Cathy’s ex) wrote it to his uncle in the past. Cathy mentions getting it and what she thought after reading it, but the actual notes isn’t inside the book. For that, you need to open the packet and find the letter. Pretty neat, huh?
Basically…you should read this book. It’s a fast read and a ton of fun. If you are a big fan of reading, you should enjoy the characters, the mystery (which keeps you guessing until the end), the humor, and more…and if you aren’t a big reader (or know someone who isn’t) they should still check this out and feel the same and the shortness, pictures, and packet goodies should keep them pretty excited throughout and willing to read the whole book!
Song for Book: Inner Circle’s “Bad Boys”
Why Did I Pick This? There are some boys in this book that are up to some interesting and not so good things…as to who and what, you’ll have to read the book, but it’s very intriquing!
I love the Cathy's Book series <3
I'm especially loving the setting and interactive feel, among other things =)
(I'd suggest getting the books in hardback if you can; the "evidence" is alot more interesting when it's tangible, instead of the printed on fold out flap that comes with the paperback versions.)
I read Cathy's Ring and think I would have enjoyed it more if I'd read the first two books in the series beforehand.
I read this when it first came…very interesting.
Brimful: Definitely interesting, I will say. It was completely different than what I expected, but I still loved it.
Bermudaonion: Gotcha. Yeah, I'd read the first two if you get the chance. I've only read the first so far (like I said in the review) but I can see how it would be nice to have read this one before I move on.
Jhenee: I definitely agree with getting the books in hardback. The first and third are (the ones I have) but the sedcond isn't, so I might go and get the hardback at some point if I can just to have it.
Thanks for the comment, I'm glad you like the series. It's definitely got a good setting and interactive feel.
-Lauren
I had never heard of this series before, but I'm glad I read this post cause it sounds really good! I love intriguing reads =)
Mitzy: I'm so glad I could bring you something new. Definitely try it out. It's a fun read.
-lauren
This sounds like an amazing series. Thank you for a superb review 🙂
Kate: Thank you so much. I'm glad you like the sound of the books, definitely think of picking up the first one and trying it out. I'm excited to continue Cathy's story now.
I recently won a copy of the third book in the series and I've wanted to read Cathy's Book for a while now. Now I have to because I'm a huge reading in order person. I definitely think I enjoy things better if I do it right =) Great review, just made me want to read it even more!
Mishel: Thank you, I'm glad. And yes, I do agree…I try and read series in order as that IS the best way. I hope you can get a copy of the first one soon. 🙂
I thought the scrapbook format was really intriguing. I love that sort of puzzle approach – it makes things feel so much more authentic.
I enjoyed your review, so I've linked to you here.