Recent Reads Video Review: Dancing in the Rain by Shelley Hrdlitschka

Source: From Librarything Early Reviewers Program and Orca Book Publishers in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review.

Dancing in the Rain by Shelley Hrdlitschka
Publisher:  Ocra Book Publishers
Publication Date:  September 6, 2016

 

Format:  Paperback ARC

Rating:


 



Goodreads Synopsis: 

While struggling with the death of her beloved adoptive mother, sixteen-year-old Brenna reconnects with members of her biological family, hoping to discover why her biological mother broke off contact many years earlier. At the same time, she is falling in love with Ryan, who provides support while she grieves but has to leave her when she needs him most. Despite powerful feelings of abandonment, Brenna realizes that getting strong physically and focusing on the needs of others might just help her move beyond her crippling grief, find peace and plan a future for herself.
Dancing in the Rain continues the story that began in Shelley Hrdlitschka's bestselling Dancing Naked.

Review: 

If you don't want to watch me say 'um' a million times - here is a written review...

Dancing in the Rain is about a 16 year old girl dealing with the death of her adoptive mother. Brenna has a lot to deal with right now, her adoptive mother passed away, she id trying to decide if she wants to reconnect with her biological family, and there is a boy showing interest in her.

This book is actually a follow up to another, called Dancing Naked. That book is about Kia and her teen pregnancy - with Brenna, so this book now is following the daughter in her adoptive family and life.  I did not read that first book but I don't think it is necessary as you get enough information from this one about Kia and her story to know about Brenna. However, if you are interested in Dancing Naked this may give you too much insight into that book.

I really enjoyed this story. Brenna is a very real character dealing with real emotions. I think I was reading this at the right time too since I have been dealing with a lot of emotions lately. Grief is so hard and this story shows Brenna's growth and adjustment as she deals with it. I love this character growth. There is also a romantic element as in most YA books but this one was not the complete focus as Brenna is dealing with other things too - I liked that as well.

If you enjoy contemporary and don't mind the possibility of a few tears, this one is for you.