This post is a part of an original series created by librarians/media specialists across Central Minnesota featuring books.

Title: Far Far Away by Tom McNeal

Written by Maria Burnham, Media Specialist at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School

This book is an interesting, genre-busting YA novel.  Set in the current day in the town of Never Better, Jeremy Johnson is a quiet boy who is doing all he can to keep his life afloat.  With a deceased mother and a recluse of a father unable to work or pay the bills, Jeremy is forced to do what he can to keep a roof over his head and food on the table.  But what makes Jeremy’s life interesting (and bearable, to him) is that he hears a voice that helps to guide him through the world.  And it’s not just any voice; it’s the voice of Jacob Grimm, one half of the famous writing duo of the Grimm brothers.  Part mystery, part fantasy, part realistic fiction, this novel is sure to keep you wondering.

The first half of the book was interesting, but a little slow. However, when I got to the last 100 pages, I could NOT put the book down. I literally bit my nails as I read. I love that the narrator of the book is the ghost of Jacob Grimm and that there are many connections to Grimm’s tales. This book is full of storyline layers that I love.

My only gripe is that I could see a logistical flaw toward the end of the book. I can’t mention what it is because it would spoil the book for some. Without that flaw, I would’ve given the book 5 stars! My favorite YA book of the summer to be sure!

Image credit: Random House LLC