clarelou612's review
emotional
lighthearted
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
sabinamaniak's review
emotional
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
nellbrbr's review
4.0
I loved this book but points off because the ending was rushed seemingly for no reason like we had time everyone had time
casperea's review
3.0
I had high hopes for this book, but sadly it did not deliver.
Anyone who follows mainstream media knows the downside of childhood fame. In fact, I am sure we can name a handful, if not more, of childhood stars who sadly ended up addicted to drugs or alcohol, in need of mental health services, or were blacklisted from the industry. Therefore, exploring the effects success has on a young person mentally, physically, emotionally, financially, etc. sounded like an interesting read.
I could see Katie Cotugno’s vision, but she failed to execute it. The plot allowed for some heavy hitting discussions on triggering topics like consent, abuse of power, PTSD, as well as so much more. But, as soon as things got the slightest bit heavy, Cotugno pulled back. I am not sure what the point of writing a book on this subject matter is if she wanted to stay surface level.
My biggest gripe, however, wound up being the abruptness of the ending. It left me less than satisfied. I wish she had continued writing until the characters (especially Fiona) had more closure. I don’t need a happily-ever-after, but I wanted to know the trajectory their careers, personal relationships, and family lives were heading.
This was my introduction to Katie Cotugno as an author. I had heard a lot of good things about her writing. While Bird’s of California is a departure from her usually genre of young adult romance, I am hesitant to pick up another one of her books. The three stars I gave this book were rather generous. So I am not sure I would want to spend my money or time on another one of her stories.
Anyone who follows mainstream media knows the downside of childhood fame. In fact, I am sure we can name a handful, if not more, of childhood stars who sadly ended up addicted to drugs or alcohol, in need of mental health services, or were blacklisted from the industry. Therefore, exploring the effects success has on a young person mentally, physically, emotionally, financially, etc. sounded like an interesting read.
I could see Katie Cotugno’s vision, but she failed to execute it. The plot allowed for some heavy hitting discussions on triggering topics like consent, abuse of power, PTSD, as well as so much more. But, as soon as things got the slightest bit heavy, Cotugno pulled back. I am not sure what the point of writing a book on this subject matter is if she wanted to stay surface level.
My biggest gripe, however, wound up being the abruptness of the ending. It left me less than satisfied. I wish she had continued writing until the characters (especially Fiona) had more closure. I don’t need a happily-ever-after, but I wanted to know the trajectory their careers, personal relationships, and family lives were heading.
This was my introduction to Katie Cotugno as an author. I had heard a lot of good things about her writing. While Bird’s of California is a departure from her usually genre of young adult romance, I am hesitant to pick up another one of her books. The three stars I gave this book were rather generous. So I am not sure I would want to spend my money or time on another one of her stories.
reillyharr82's review
adventurous
challenging
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
lareads's review
emotional
funny
hopeful
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
marissabrad24's review
lighthearted
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
3.0
eternal_ember's review
4.0
This was a very quick read for me, the romance, the self-growth, the overcoming trauma, everything about this book was good. However, I am only giving this a 4.5/5 because I didn't love love it.