Thunderhead

I loved this book.
The story expanded perfectly for a sequel.
The cliffhangers were staggering...yeah, there are multiple.

The characters developed along with the story and I never felt as though either plot or character development suffered for the sake of the other. Shusterman's dynamic voice and brilliant imagination stole the show, once again. Often, sequels are a let-down, but this is not one of those times. Multiple times I wanted to throw the book. Twice, I was brought to tears—in the same scene no less. I had just recovered myself to continue and I was blindsided not three paragraphs later. Well played, Shusterman.

One thing I will allow for greater specificity is my admiration of Shusterman's tact when it comes to sex. Nothing is blatant. He is artful and subtle—even gentle—in his suggestion that sex is even present in the story. He leaves room for those who wish to interpret his words to include, or to omit. This shows me that he truly understands and respects his audience. Obviously, this is one of many examples where love for his readers shines through, but this detail is both the noblest and the most endearing.