2008 Printz Honor Books (2)

One Whole and Perfect Day
By Judith Clarke

Seventeen-year old Lily has just about had it with her strange family as most teenagers do. Lily’s family is filled with an older brother who can't get his act together, her mom who continually brings home clients from the adult daycare center where she works, and her grandmother has an imaginary friend. Lily is very tired of always being the responsible one, and would like to fall in love. However, when her grandfather and brother begin feuding, Lily must put her plans on the back burner. While juggling other boiling pots and defusing family fueling flames, Lily helps to plan a family party. While reading, you wonder if Lily will ever get out of the kitchen with so many dirty dishes. Overall, One Whole and Perfect Day by Judith Clarke is a story of family relationships and no matter how “freakish” they are, they’re still family, the tie that binds.



Repossessed
By A M Jenkins

Kiriel wants to experience a bit of life although he is a demon, who prefers the term “Fallen Angel.” Before he begins his journey, he must acquire a body, which he finds from Shaun. Kiriel’s philosophy was that Shaun wasn’t going to need it anyway since his demise was near. Kiriel was determined to experience everything he could in Shaun's body before he gets caught. After having experiencing teenage life, Kiriel discovers that he wants to make a difference in the world. He finds that helping people is much more satisfying than seeking personal gratification. He also learns that what he really wants is to get a response from the Creator. Although he is in many ways different than the teen whose body he acquired, he is clearly a teenager in the cosmic sense, both rebelling against and seeking attention. I think this is an ingenious yet funny book with a lot of teen appeal. Told through Kiriel’s voice in the first person makes it distinctive and enjoyable. This is a book for mature readers for those who can delve into theological aspects, such as separation from the Creator. However, it is left up to the reader to decide, which is what a good book should do, make you think. Overall, I believe this book is an appreciation for creation and the attempt to find one’s place in the world.