What do you think?
Rate this book
The Wrap-Up List
In this modern-day suburban town, one percent of all fatalities come about in the most peculiar way. Deaths—eight-foot-tall, silver-gray creatures—send a letter (“Dear So-and-So, your days are numbered”) to whomever is chosen for a departure, telling them to wrap up their lives and do the things they always wanted to do before they have to “depart.” When sixteen-year-old Gabriela receives her notice, she is, of course devastated. Will she kiss her crush Sylvester before it’s too late?
Friendship, first love, and fantasy artfully mesh in this magically realistic world that ultimately celebrates life.
Friendship, first love, and fantasy artfully mesh in this magically realistic world that ultimately celebrates life.
236 pages, Hardcover
First published January 8, 2013
32 people are currently reading
1162 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 192 reviews
January 25, 2016
"The Wrap-Up List" by Steven Arntson is a mysterious book that goes through a week in Gabriela Rivera's life. But it wasn't just any ordinary week. In fact, Gabriela gets a letter that she is going to die from a creature called a death. The proper word for "die" would actually be "depart" in their reality though. In this book, the reality of the world is different. People get picked at random usually to be departed, and Gabriela was part of the 1% of society that got chosen. Gabriela goes through some tough times, and she has to figure out how to stay alive. This book is great for anybody who likes mystery, and a little bit of an anxious tone throughout the book.
January 9, 2013
I loved the premise of THE WRAP-UP LIST, even as I fretted that the novel would leave me in tears. In Gabriela Riviera's world, one percent of all fatalities are due to Departures. You receive a red envelope warning you you're about to depart and you then have a short time to put your affairs in order and try to earn a Pardon. Gabriela just received an envelope and has one week to get a first kiss for herself and her three best friends: Iris, Raahi, and Sarena.
There are other ways Gabriela's world is slightly different from ours. Her US is not only at war; the draft has been instituted. It seemed like a throwaway detail at first, but the war becomes more entwined with Gabriela's fate as the story goes on. The Deaths are also explored more as Gabriela's Departure draws closer, which was a welcome development. But there are many ways it is the same. Gabriela's family is Catholic, but she's been questioning for a long time. Her parents hope she'll find comfort at St. Mary's, but she thinks many of her priest's answers are unsatisfactory.
Gabriela's entire background is very well done. Her family is a large part of the story, as much as her friends. I did think that Raahi and Sarena faded into the background too much at times, but Iris is always a large part of Gabriela's life and the person most determined to save her. I loved the characterization in THE WRAP-UP LIST. Her impending death makes Gabriela not only face herself, but the people around her. She learns things about her friends, her family, and her crush that she mind never have even wondered about before.
I read THE WRAP-UP LIST very quickly. The day-by-day structure, following each of Gabriela's last seven days, keeps the story moving. Not that I wouldn't have read quickly anyway since I wanted to know whether Gabriela would be able to perform the right altruistic task to save herself. (No, I will not give the ending away.)
I highly recommend THE WRAP-UP LIST. It has great characters, an irresistible premise, humor, and a touch of the paranormal. It's the strange not-one-thing-or-another type of genre story that YA does so well.
There are other ways Gabriela's world is slightly different from ours. Her US is not only at war; the draft has been instituted. It seemed like a throwaway detail at first, but the war becomes more entwined with Gabriela's fate as the story goes on. The Deaths are also explored more as Gabriela's Departure draws closer, which was a welcome development. But there are many ways it is the same. Gabriela's family is Catholic, but she's been questioning for a long time. Her parents hope she'll find comfort at St. Mary's, but she thinks many of her priest's answers are unsatisfactory.
Gabriela's entire background is very well done. Her family is a large part of the story, as much as her friends. I did think that Raahi and Sarena faded into the background too much at times, but Iris is always a large part of Gabriela's life and the person most determined to save her. I loved the characterization in THE WRAP-UP LIST. Her impending death makes Gabriela not only face herself, but the people around her. She learns things about her friends, her family, and her crush that she mind never have even wondered about before.
I read THE WRAP-UP LIST very quickly. The day-by-day structure, following each of Gabriela's last seven days, keeps the story moving. Not that I wouldn't have read quickly anyway since I wanted to know whether Gabriela would be able to perform the right altruistic task to save herself. (No, I will not give the ending away.)
I highly recommend THE WRAP-UP LIST. It has great characters, an irresistible premise, humor, and a touch of the paranormal. It's the strange not-one-thing-or-another type of genre story that YA does so well.
January 25, 2016
I would rate this book 5 stars because I could relate to a lot of it. This book showed how 16 year old Gabriela works through her departure note (a notice that she is dying in 7 days) and tries to get a pardon so she doesn't have to depart. Gabby also asks for her and her friends to receive their first kisses. Gabriela was an interesting character because she never gave up on what she wanted to do.
January 12, 2014
I never thought I'd find such a wonderful story hidden behind this unassuming cover and strange description, but there it sits, nonetheless.
I would describe Arnston's writing as uncluttered. He doesn't use extravagant descriptions or take more time than necessary to get the point across and it works splendidly. Often times, this kind of approach creates a disjointed story that doesn't pull you in, but that isn't the case with The Wrap-Up List. The writing makes all the emotions more palpable and real. During the last few chapters I was finding it difficult to read because my tears were making everything blurry. And what an ending it was. Beautiful and yet melancholy. I honestly didn't have any idea how it would turn out either.
Gabriella is an admirable character. She is shocked and mournful when she first receives her letter. But then she comes to terms with it. She keeps it together and doesn't spend her last week in tears. She works towards getting her pardon, but she's also there for her friends. It should be the other way around, and they are there for her, but she's right there supporting them as well. She's not helping them mourn the loss of her, she's helping them continue their lives once she's gone.
I love how much Gabriella grows as a person in her last week, as well. She starts to have different views on life and start forming opinions that she can call her own.
The Nutshell: Don't let the simple cover and somewhat strange description put you off of The Wrap-Up List as it is an amazing book. The story is one that's completely new and yet still conveys some of the struggles most of us go through in our lives whether it be in our teenage years or when we face death, that of a loved one or your own. I know this will end up being another book buried under all the shiny covers and trendy plotlines, but it's a book that deserves to be read.
Direct Hit
I would describe Arnston's writing as uncluttered. He doesn't use extravagant descriptions or take more time than necessary to get the point across and it works splendidly. Often times, this kind of approach creates a disjointed story that doesn't pull you in, but that isn't the case with The Wrap-Up List. The writing makes all the emotions more palpable and real. During the last few chapters I was finding it difficult to read because my tears were making everything blurry. And what an ending it was. Beautiful and yet melancholy. I honestly didn't have any idea how it would turn out either.
Gabriella is an admirable character. She is shocked and mournful when she first receives her letter. But then she comes to terms with it. She keeps it together and doesn't spend her last week in tears. She works towards getting her pardon, but she's also there for her friends. It should be the other way around, and they are there for her, but she's right there supporting them as well. She's not helping them mourn the loss of her, she's helping them continue their lives once she's gone.
I love how much Gabriella grows as a person in her last week, as well. She starts to have different views on life and start forming opinions that she can call her own.
The Nutshell: Don't let the simple cover and somewhat strange description put you off of The Wrap-Up List as it is an amazing book. The story is one that's completely new and yet still conveys some of the struggles most of us go through in our lives whether it be in our teenage years or when we face death, that of a loved one or your own. I know this will end up being another book buried under all the shiny covers and trendy plotlines, but it's a book that deserves to be read.
Direct Hit
February 21, 2013
Steven Arntson skillfully manoeuvres the topics of death and friendship in this relatively light-hearted supernatural read.
Gabriela has received notification that she is going to "depart" (die) in one week. Before this happens, she has been generously provided the opportunity to write up a list of the things she hopes to accomplish before her death and hopefully figure out a way to escape it. Gabriela's voice shines in this first-person novel with sharp wit and dark humour.
Despite the morbid concept, The Wrap-Up List is actually a refreshingly light read. Gabriela's final days are filled with family, friends and laughter rather than despair at her impending doom. Her wrap-up list, the list of things she'd like to accomplish before passing, was wonderful and I loved how much she discovered about herself and the people she loved in the process of trying to fulfil it.
The supporting cast of characters is a diverse and wonderful group of people, all there to support Gabriela and each other in their own special way. It's clear to see the unique place each holds in Gabriela's life and a nice change to see that they actually have their own lives as well. The fact that these characters have their own concerns independent of their friend is a welcome plot point in my eyes.
Despite the inventive concept, The Wrap-Up List is a novel you will find both easy to believe and easy to read.
Cover Comments: I love that the wrap-up list is featured so plainly. It certainly managed to get my attention!
Gabriela has received notification that she is going to "depart" (die) in one week. Before this happens, she has been generously provided the opportunity to write up a list of the things she hopes to accomplish before her death and hopefully figure out a way to escape it. Gabriela's voice shines in this first-person novel with sharp wit and dark humour.
Despite the morbid concept, The Wrap-Up List is actually a refreshingly light read. Gabriela's final days are filled with family, friends and laughter rather than despair at her impending doom. Her wrap-up list, the list of things she'd like to accomplish before passing, was wonderful and I loved how much she discovered about herself and the people she loved in the process of trying to fulfil it.
The supporting cast of characters is a diverse and wonderful group of people, all there to support Gabriela and each other in their own special way. It's clear to see the unique place each holds in Gabriela's life and a nice change to see that they actually have their own lives as well. The fact that these characters have their own concerns independent of their friend is a welcome plot point in my eyes.
Despite the inventive concept, The Wrap-Up List is a novel you will find both easy to believe and easy to read.
Cover Comments: I love that the wrap-up list is featured so plainly. It certainly managed to get my attention!
December 5, 2012
The Wrap-up List features a cast of diverse and fun to read about characters. They feature diversity in their backgrounds, religious preferences, race, and in their sexual identities, but it features a beautiful friendship.
Gabriela is the main character, and she receives a letter from Death, a magical type creature that escorts you basically to the afterlife, telling her that she has a week to live. She can make requests and she can be given a hint about Death's weakness in order to grant a pardon, meaning basically that she gets to live. Gabriela is typical teenager at first, but then she begins to think of others with her list, and looks into her past to her brave and patriotic grandfather who died a hero in battle for clues.
Along the journey to first kisses, she learns a lot about herself and about her friends as well. It is a quick and enjoyable story, and I especially liked the slap stick type humor when Hercule showed up on the scene.
The only thing that I wish were different is a little more explanation about when and how the letters started as well as some sort of context for the upcoming war. It left me with a lot of questions, but once I put that aside, and if you readers can look over that, I think you will enjoy.
I really like how religion is handled in this book, that it is something that her family does, and she questions it of course, and she has heart to hearts with her priest, but it is not made a big deal out of and it is shown in every day context... Meaning not preachy and well done.
I also wish that there was more ground work on why Gabriela had a crush on Sylvester, but then again, I suppose that is really how romantic infatuations are... We know little about the person, but we see how they look and know about their public persona, and we are drawn to them. I do think it is well done how they are drawn together, and that it is not instant fall at your feet love, but that it hints the beginning of a possible relationship, and acting out on mutual attraction. It was also well done how two of her friends got together, although again with the third it just seemed like it happened with no real indicators from the other person, but I also guess that the Influence of death worked to escalate things that were already there under the surface.
As for the plot, it was well paced, and the ending tied everything up very well, and I was satisfied when I put the book down.
Bottom Line: Enjoyable book with sweet romantic elements.
For more of my reviews, check out Blkosiner’s YA and Teen Book Blog: http://blkosiner.blogspot.com
Gabriela is the main character, and she receives a letter from Death, a magical type creature that escorts you basically to the afterlife, telling her that she has a week to live. She can make requests and she can be given a hint about Death's weakness in order to grant a pardon, meaning basically that she gets to live. Gabriela is typical teenager at first, but then she begins to think of others with her list, and looks into her past to her brave and patriotic grandfather who died a hero in battle for clues.
Along the journey to first kisses, she learns a lot about herself and about her friends as well. It is a quick and enjoyable story, and I especially liked the slap stick type humor when Hercule showed up on the scene.
The only thing that I wish were different is a little more explanation about when and how the letters started as well as some sort of context for the upcoming war. It left me with a lot of questions, but once I put that aside, and if you readers can look over that, I think you will enjoy.
I really like how religion is handled in this book, that it is something that her family does, and she questions it of course, and she has heart to hearts with her priest, but it is not made a big deal out of and it is shown in every day context... Meaning not preachy and well done.
I also wish that there was more ground work on why Gabriela had a crush on Sylvester, but then again, I suppose that is really how romantic infatuations are... We know little about the person, but we see how they look and know about their public persona, and we are drawn to them. I do think it is well done how they are drawn together, and that it is not instant fall at your feet love, but that it hints the beginning of a possible relationship, and acting out on mutual attraction. It was also well done how two of her friends got together, although again with the third it just seemed like it happened with no real indicators from the other person, but I also guess that the Influence of death worked to escalate things that were already there under the surface.
As for the plot, it was well paced, and the ending tied everything up very well, and I was satisfied when I put the book down.
Bottom Line: Enjoyable book with sweet romantic elements.
For more of my reviews, check out Blkosiner’s YA and Teen Book Blog: http://blkosiner.blogspot.com
January 6, 2014
The book has an interesting premise: set in some futuristic society, perhaps, a certain subset of population has been deemed as "departed" and gets notified that their time in "up" and they have a week left to live. Ergo, each person gets to meet their "grim reaper" and provide a "wrap-up list" (kind of like a bucket list, presumably.)
Instead of what could have been a really interesting look at how people (in this case, a teenage girl) decided to spend their final week and all the emotions and actions that arise, what follows is a choppy, poorly-written and incredible corny dialogue. There seemed to be quite a bit of action on the last 2/3 of the book, but it was hard to follow and non-nonsensical. Even basic things such as the timeline of the story (it is written in modern-times, however, the teen main character had a grandfather who had perished in WW2) and how the characters spoke to eachother made no sense. I felt like the writer set this story in the early '80s, but didn't tell anyone. A shame; I thought that it could be an excellent story.
Instead of what could have been a really interesting look at how people (in this case, a teenage girl) decided to spend their final week and all the emotions and actions that arise, what follows is a choppy, poorly-written and incredible corny dialogue. There seemed to be quite a bit of action on the last 2/3 of the book, but it was hard to follow and non-nonsensical. Even basic things such as the timeline of the story (it is written in modern-times, however, the teen main character had a grandfather who had perished in WW2) and how the characters spoke to eachother made no sense. I felt like the writer set this story in the early '80s, but didn't tell anyone. A shame; I thought that it could be an excellent story.
January 27, 2013
Such an amazingly thoughtful and out of the box story about death and departing from this world. The cast of characters are so diverse and well thought out. I love how cunning, caring and selfless Gabby is. A must read.
September 18, 2018
I judged this book by its cover.
The whole plot happens in a week, before Gabriela's departure. I totally cannot stand with the way Gabriela and her family not being uncool about her departure. They have their usual meals, usual TV time, usual church time, when their only daughter is going to be taken by death in a week's time. It sounds humanely impossible for me. Initially, I thought that this "death", the author referring to, would be some "voldemorty-thingy" both bodily and inwardly. Again, I judged too quickly, until I read the part about Gabriela and her friends trying to kidnap the death, wherein the death is portrayed as normal worldly villain.
The way she managed the pardon earned by her grand dad, how she tricks the death - all these drama were very much foreseeable.
Lesson learnt - Don't judge a book by its cover!
The whole plot happens in a week, before Gabriela's departure. I totally cannot stand with the way Gabriela and her family not being uncool about her departure. They have their usual meals, usual TV time, usual church time, when their only daughter is going to be taken by death in a week's time. It sounds humanely impossible for me. Initially, I thought that this "death", the author referring to, would be some "voldemorty-thingy" both bodily and inwardly. Again, I judged too quickly, until I read the part about Gabriela and her friends trying to kidnap the death, wherein the death is portrayed as normal worldly villain.
The way she managed the pardon earned by her grand dad, how she tricks the death - all these drama were very much foreseeable.
Lesson learnt - Don't judge a book by its cover!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 5, 2014
What the heck did I just read.
The summary plot for this novel seemed to have potential and actually interested me! Boy, was I proven wrong. The writing was fine, but the descriptions were HORRENDOUS. Seriously, what.the.heck. The descriptions on EVERYTHING was pathetic! Death is apparently an eight feet tall, silver figure with gills on the side of his/her face? Not only that, Death goes out to get coffee and seems to be floating around everywhere....I am astounded by the stupidity of it. Further in the novel, it mentions that Death is part hammerhead shark. ARE YOU FREAKING KIDDING ME. No, no, no, no, no. Just stop Steven Arntson. You have gone too far. When reading, I wasn't even sure this was a legit novel or if the author was tricking me. You call this a novel? More like a children's book attempting to act grown up. Please.
I had absolute no sympathy for any of the characters. I did not give one thought to the impending death of Gabriela. Harsh, but that's the reality. Terrible characterization lead to my cold-blooded murderous thoughts on this novel. I had the urge to throw this book against the wall because it was going nowhere. NOWHERE I TELL YA. Okay Gabriela, you're going to die in a week, way to spend your time doing nothing!!! ARGH, I'M TELLING YA, THESE CHARACTERS GET YOUR BLOOD BOILING.
The constant reminder and mention of Christianity got to me as well. Sorry about that. I share no beliefs about God nor do I possess any. I don't mind any mentionings of different faiths in novels, but this was just BAM, IN YO FACE. I seriously could not get away from all the Christianity references. Excuse me, but I have absolutely no idea what your talking about Steven nor do I want to learn about it. I would respect if the author would not shove his beliefs down my throat, thanks. With this, I do not mean to offend anyone. I'm just expressing my own non-Christian opinion here.
Hmm, what else to criticize... Oh yes, the random moment in the novel where everyone starts kissing one another. WHAT. THE. ACTUAL. FUDGE. I was utterly speechless and was frustrated with what the author was trying to accomplish. WHAT TYPE OF SUPERNATURAL EVENT IS THIS?! I'm sorry, but I did not appreciate what you were trying to do Steven. Just no. Stop this madness before I lose my mind.
Truthfully, I am so freaking happy I am finally done with this novel and will not have to put up with the terrible plot line! THANK GOODNESS. This novel was a bad idea from the beginning but I was just hopelessly wishing it would turn out awesome. Whoops, my mistake.
The summary plot for this novel seemed to have potential and actually interested me! Boy, was I proven wrong. The writing was fine, but the descriptions were HORRENDOUS. Seriously, what.the.heck. The descriptions on EVERYTHING was pathetic! Death is apparently an eight feet tall, silver figure with gills on the side of his/her face? Not only that, Death goes out to get coffee and seems to be floating around everywhere....I am astounded by the stupidity of it. Further in the novel, it mentions that Death is part hammerhead shark. ARE YOU FREAKING KIDDING ME. No, no, no, no, no. Just stop Steven Arntson. You have gone too far. When reading, I wasn't even sure this was a legit novel or if the author was tricking me. You call this a novel? More like a children's book attempting to act grown up. Please.
I had absolute no sympathy for any of the characters. I did not give one thought to the impending death of Gabriela. Harsh, but that's the reality. Terrible characterization lead to my cold-blooded murderous thoughts on this novel. I had the urge to throw this book against the wall because it was going nowhere. NOWHERE I TELL YA. Okay Gabriela, you're going to die in a week, way to spend your time doing nothing!!! ARGH, I'M TELLING YA, THESE CHARACTERS GET YOUR BLOOD BOILING.
The constant reminder and mention of Christianity got to me as well. Sorry about that. I share no beliefs about God nor do I possess any. I don't mind any mentionings of different faiths in novels, but this was just BAM, IN YO FACE. I seriously could not get away from all the Christianity references. Excuse me, but I have absolutely no idea what your talking about Steven nor do I want to learn about it. I would respect if the author would not shove his beliefs down my throat, thanks. With this, I do not mean to offend anyone. I'm just expressing my own non-Christian opinion here.
Hmm, what else to criticize... Oh yes, the random moment in the novel where everyone starts kissing one another. WHAT. THE. ACTUAL. FUDGE. I was utterly speechless and was frustrated with what the author was trying to accomplish. WHAT TYPE OF SUPERNATURAL EVENT IS THIS?! I'm sorry, but I did not appreciate what you were trying to do Steven. Just no. Stop this madness before I lose my mind.
Truthfully, I am so freaking happy I am finally done with this novel and will not have to put up with the terrible plot line! THANK GOODNESS. This novel was a bad idea from the beginning but I was just hopelessly wishing it would turn out awesome. Whoops, my mistake.
August 28, 2017
This was an odd, quirky little story. It has a fantastical premise (creatures called "Deaths" are responsible for 'departing' certain individuals), and is set sometime in the future (no year is given, but the US is on the brink of what sounds like another world war) and yet it is centered very much on protagonist Gabriela's teenage concerns and daily life. There really isn't much world-building going on, but given this book seems to be more of a contemporary novel with a fantastical premise, I don't know that it really needs a ton of world-building.
Despite the fact that Gabriela's wrap-up list (what she wants to have happen before she departs) is centered on first kisses, romance really doesn't play that large a role in the story. Her "love interest," if you can call him that, is a sad specimen and I honestly don't know why she wanted him as her first kiss. He seemed like kind of a jerk, to be honest. Gabriela's taste in guys aside, however, she was a likeable enough protagonist, although her voice sounded a little younger than her specified age -- more like fourteen rather than sixteen. I enjoyed seeing her Mexican heritage highlighted in a natural, organic sort of way.
My favourite character without a doubt was the Death Hercule. He had attitude. I wish we could have seen even more of him. Just generally, I think some of the side characters could have been fleshed-out more; I would have liked to have seen more of her relationships with friends and family. It felt a little like the basics had been sketched out, but not completely filled in.
Plot-wise, there weren't many "big events" before the climactic scene, and then the ending itself was fairly predictable ().
Despite the fact that Gabriela's wrap-up list (what she wants to have happen before she departs) is centered on first kisses, romance really doesn't play that large a role in the story. Her "love interest," if you can call him that, is a sad specimen and I honestly don't know why she wanted him as her first kiss. He seemed like kind of a jerk, to be honest. Gabriela's taste in guys aside, however, she was a likeable enough protagonist, although her voice sounded a little younger than her specified age -- more like fourteen rather than sixteen. I enjoyed seeing her Mexican heritage highlighted in a natural, organic sort of way.
My favourite character without a doubt was the Death Hercule. He had attitude. I wish we could have seen even more of him. Just generally, I think some of the side characters could have been fleshed-out more; I would have liked to have seen more of her relationships with friends and family. It felt a little like the basics had been sketched out, but not completely filled in.
Plot-wise, there weren't many "big events" before the climactic scene, and then the ending itself was fairly predictable ().
March 16, 2015
I think this book was pretty okay. I find this book depressing how Gabriela is only 16 years old and she's getting departure. I mean who would want to leave the world at such a young age when they've only spent like 16 years living? It's even more depressing because the guy that Gabriela wanted to kiss was departure too and was departure before her.
When the summary on the back of the book said "Gabriela's Death has a secret weakness. If Gabriela can figure out, she might be able to trick him into letting her go..", while I was reading the book, I was really hoping that Gabriela would figure out her "secret weakness" so that she wouldn't be departure. She doesn't deserve to die yet. She's just like us. Human beings. But it turns out that she didn't because in the book on page 232 it said " Thank you, Gabriela. I was proud to escort you. I release his hands". If Gabriela did find out her secret weakness, it would of prevented Hercules to departure her. Although the ending was pretty good and bad because she met Sylvester Hale. The guy who she always wished to kiss before she departures and the bad part is that she left her family members so early. I do recommend this book to others who haven't read this book yet. (: I had a depressing moment while reading this book.
When the summary on the back of the book said "Gabriela's Death has a secret weakness. If Gabriela can figure out, she might be able to trick him into letting her go..", while I was reading the book, I was really hoping that Gabriela would figure out her "secret weakness" so that she wouldn't be departure. She doesn't deserve to die yet. She's just like us. Human beings. But it turns out that she didn't because in the book on page 232 it said " Thank you, Gabriela. I was proud to escort you. I release his hands". If Gabriela did find out her secret weakness, it would of prevented Hercules to departure her. Although the ending was pretty good and bad because she met Sylvester Hale. The guy who she always wished to kiss before she departures and the bad part is that she left her family members so early. I do recommend this book to others who haven't read this book yet. (: I had a depressing moment while reading this book.
January 27, 2013
DEATH is my favorite character in all of Discworld, and the Deaths imagined here by Arnston are pretty great! In this proximate future version of America (well, the world, really) people die, but some "depart" following letters received from a Death. Gabrielle is one such person - Hercule sends her a letter suggesting a week from Wednesday as her departure date. The established protocol is to write a wrap-up list, similar to a bucket list but with a definite time frame in mind. The Death will respond with hints as to how to accomplish said items; if you can find the Death's Secret Weakness, you might get a Pardon and continue with your life.
With only a week to live, Gabrielle has to find the Secret Witness, complete her wrap-up list, say goodbye to her friends and family, and prepare to depart. It's a lot, but the way in which she approaches it is interesting and will definitely resonate with teens. Her Death, Hercule, is less an amorphous thing than another character in the story, capable of emotion. If nothing else, it may make readers think about what they would want on their wrap-up list.
ARC provided by publisher.
With only a week to live, Gabrielle has to find the Secret Witness, complete her wrap-up list, say goodbye to her friends and family, and prepare to depart. It's a lot, but the way in which she approaches it is interesting and will definitely resonate with teens. Her Death, Hercule, is less an amorphous thing than another character in the story, capable of emotion. If nothing else, it may make readers think about what they would want on their wrap-up list.
ARC provided by publisher.
September 3, 2013
The Wrap-Up List has basically the same premise as Shaun Hutchinson's 2010 novel, The Deathday Letter, which is that sometimes people get letters telling them they are going to die, and the main character is one of those people. Steven Arntson takes this in a completely different direction though, one that is lighter, younger, less serious, and less funny. *not that there's anything wrong with that.*
The Wrap-Up List is a cute story that is easy to recommend to younger YA readers. It dances on the surface of the idea of knowing when you will die and that it will be tomorrow, but there's no real depth explored here. Gabriela, the MC, doesn't believe that she will die. She knows she will get her "pardon," a convenient way out of death (not present in The Deathday Letter), and it's no surprise at the end when she does and the whole story ends happily, with a lot of kisses and a silly dance party.
The Wrap-Up List is a cute story that is easy to recommend to younger YA readers. It dances on the surface of the idea of knowing when you will die and that it will be tomorrow, but there's no real depth explored here. Gabriela, the MC, doesn't believe that she will die. She knows she will get her "pardon," a convenient way out of death (not present in The Deathday Letter), and it's no surprise at the end when she does and the whole story ends happily, with a lot of kisses and a silly dance party.
November 28, 2014
The book The Wrap Up List by Steven Arntson is about a girl named Gabriela who is 16. Her country is about to go to war, and her friend Raahi has just gotten a draft letter, and all of their friends: Ivy, Sarena, and Gabriela herself, are all upset about it. But when Gabriela receives a letter from a Death, Hercule, she finds she only has a week left to live, and she knows she has to get a pardon. Each Death has a Noble Weakness. If the receiver of the Death letter finds out their Death's Noble Weakness and performs it, then they get a pardon. A pardon is like a pass. If you get a pardon, you get to live back in your life like nothing ever happened. If you want to know if she gets a pardon, you just have to read the book to find out.
I thought the book The Wrap Up List was a great book. It was thrilling, and full of suspense. I would recommend this book to somebody who likes to read books that have a lot of suspense.
I thought the book The Wrap Up List was a great book. It was thrilling, and full of suspense. I would recommend this book to somebody who likes to read books that have a lot of suspense.
March 7, 2013
Perhaps I am morbid, but I really enjoy reading books that take on the subject matter of death. I especially like it when young adult books talk about that subject matter, as for many young people, death does seem outside the realm of possibility when you have your whole life ahead of you. Thus, The Wrap-Up List by Steven Arntson caught my attention with it’s gritty topics, yet Arntson handles death with a light touch and writes a story that is both touching and funny.
Read the rest of my review here
Read the rest of my review here
October 5, 2012
Gabriela is sweet sixteen and never been kissed but now she only has one week to live. She has been chosen for departure. Her wrap-up list includes first kisses for herself and her three best friends and, most importantly, a pardon. If she finds out her Death's secret weakness, she will be pardoned and allowed to return to her life.
This magical-realistic tale does not really give explanations for why the world is the way that it is. Nor does it really explain Deaths and Departures. I was left wondering "why?"
http://yarsocalif.blogspot.com/2012/1...
This magical-realistic tale does not really give explanations for why the world is the way that it is. Nor does it really explain Deaths and Departures. I was left wondering "why?"
http://yarsocalif.blogspot.com/2012/1...
December 31, 2015
Oh, I loved this. If DEAD LIKE ME and HOW I LIVE NOW had a baby, it would look something like this book. Fun, quirky, bittersweet, and sad, THE WRAP-UP LIST also features a highly racially-diverse cast with a prominent queer supporting character. This was a fast read but a refreshing one, considering how cookie-cutter some of my recent reads have been. This seems to be a tragically-overlooked YA, and I'd recommend this to just about anyone who likes that off-the-wall, vaguely-fantastical kind of quirky. Fans of Wonderfalls, Pushing Daisies, and so on... this will almost certainly be your jam.
October 1, 2014
Gabriela receives her departure letter at age sixteen, and she has a week to wrap-up her life goals. But there is one way to cheat death: a pardon. Gabby and her friends will stop at nothing to get one for her.
I personally really enjoyed this book. It made me laugh out load, and it made me cry. It is one of the most powerful books I have ever read. It really touched me. I would recommend this book to any boom lover, as it has little sprinkles of everything.
I personally really enjoyed this book. It made me laugh out load, and it made me cry. It is one of the most powerful books I have ever read. It really touched me. I would recommend this book to any boom lover, as it has little sprinkles of everything.
October 18, 2014
16 year old Gabriela received her Death letter. She has until Wednesday to wrap up her her life goals before her Death arrives to escort her to the afterlife. There is only one way out-a Pardon.
I sort of liked this book. It got kind of boring at times.The end was good, though. I don't recommend this to people who like action packed booKS like me.
I sort of liked this book. It got kind of boring at times.The end was good, though. I don't recommend this to people who like action packed booKS like me.
September 13, 2014
I read this book in one sitting. It is bright, thoughtful, beautifully distilled and wonderfully compelling.
July 21, 2016
The whole thing about you get a letter it's a death wish- kinda bore me. Sounded interesting but I got to pg. 55 and there was NO action. I could not finish this book.
February 27, 2018
In the book The Wrap-Up list by Steven Arntson, 16 year old Gabriela and her friend are all curious about “Departer” but when she gets a letter he life is turned upside down. Departer was another term for death… in a sense. These things called deaths will wright a departing person a letter telling them how long they have to live before they “depart”. Then the said person will write there death a wrap up list. Gabriela wrote in her list, “1. First kiss- for Iris, 2. First kiss- for Raahi, 4. First kiss for Arena, 4. First kiss- fro me, from sylvester, 5. Pardon.” A pardon was the way you could get out of Departing, but you have to guess the Deaths “nobel weakness” The deaths will Give you hints to each of the wrap-ups. Her hints were 1-3. “ A calvear request gabriela, 4. A bedroom for books, 5. Always about to disappear. In this books all characters destinies are intertwined because of the wrap-up list. To save themselves from despair or sorrow they must help Gabriela. They try to help her get through her wrap-up list, although she never got that kiss from sylvester or at least when she thought she would. Her friends also help her kidnap her death Hercule. Which was hilarious. I will not give away the ending but I will say this she was extremely happy as she ran through that friend.
This book is for of twist and turns. It has many different aspects, fantasy, adventure, and even romance. It also is rich in culture describing religion and how it affects here life, as well as race and how It affected her family. Although the religion aspect was interesting though, sometimes I felt like to author went o tangents. During the story I always found it interesting when the author made the fantasy aspect of the book seem normal or even real. Like it (or Debaters) could happen today. The religion this book talks about the most would be catholicism, and I found it so interesting to see the religion conveyed through the eyes of a teenager. The only time I have encountered Catholicism was when my great grandmother would take me to church with her. I also found it interesting how the grown male author so easily transformed his voice and thoughts into a teenage girls, derding the next paper, dreaming about boys, and wanting to hang out with her friends. The last thing I would like to mention is how sad the author could make me feel by the fact that Gabriela just might disappear.
I think the theme that the author is trying to convey is selflessness. In the book gabriela makes her wrap-up list about her friends. Later Hercule says that pardons are selfish which was kinda a hint to how gabriela is able to save herself. I am not going to give away too much but She need to give away the thing she wanted no needed the most, in risking her life she will save it. The author conveyed the theory that you don't have to do something so big to be selfless; He showed this in the the scene where gabriella was talking to her priest for guidance on what to put on her wrap-up list. She have put really big things like become a millionaire but he helped her see that she would have no use if she died and that it was to selfish. He made her realize that you don't have to be completely selfless to exhibit selflessness. This theme is repeated throughout the story many times, And in the end gave a clear sense of the book itself.
This book is for of twist and turns. It has many different aspects, fantasy, adventure, and even romance. It also is rich in culture describing religion and how it affects here life, as well as race and how It affected her family. Although the religion aspect was interesting though, sometimes I felt like to author went o tangents. During the story I always found it interesting when the author made the fantasy aspect of the book seem normal or even real. Like it (or Debaters) could happen today. The religion this book talks about the most would be catholicism, and I found it so interesting to see the religion conveyed through the eyes of a teenager. The only time I have encountered Catholicism was when my great grandmother would take me to church with her. I also found it interesting how the grown male author so easily transformed his voice and thoughts into a teenage girls, derding the next paper, dreaming about boys, and wanting to hang out with her friends. The last thing I would like to mention is how sad the author could make me feel by the fact that Gabriela just might disappear.
I think the theme that the author is trying to convey is selflessness. In the book gabriela makes her wrap-up list about her friends. Later Hercule says that pardons are selfish which was kinda a hint to how gabriela is able to save herself. I am not going to give away too much but She need to give away the thing she wanted no needed the most, in risking her life she will save it. The author conveyed the theory that you don't have to do something so big to be selfless; He showed this in the the scene where gabriella was talking to her priest for guidance on what to put on her wrap-up list. She have put really big things like become a millionaire but he helped her see that she would have no use if she died and that it was to selfish. He made her realize that you don't have to be completely selfless to exhibit selflessness. This theme is repeated throughout the story many times, And in the end gave a clear sense of the book itself.
April 4, 2019
The Wrap-Up List is a great book. Steven Arntson is a great winter and you can tell from other work he has done. This book was published in 2013.
A teen girl named Gabriela is only worrying about high school but her worries change when she gets home. She gets a terrifying letter stating she will go to the afterlife escorted by a shadowy figure named Hercule. She makes a list of things she wants to do before she departs called her wrap up list. She sends it to Hercule to figure out how to get them achieved. Her wasp up list consist of her getting her first kiss and her friends getting there first kiss.Will she achieve her wrap up list? Is there a way to get away from her death?
This book has a great story with great characters. There is definitely growth in the characters throughout the story. The wrap up list pulls you in with its first few sentences “Some people die from heart attacks, and some from falling off ladders… But some people don’t die-they depart” (Arntson pg 3 ). Although it has a great plot there are times where the story gets confusing and all over the place. This book is very good showing the teamwork and friendship used when solving the different problems. This book also has so outstanding achievements. This book was a finalist at 2014 Washington State Book Award. Also Voya stated “The wrap up list is likely to appeal to fans of the end of life issue genre.” "Quirky, charming and life-affirming, supernatural style." The first time reading it I did not know the true meaning. But if I go and read it again I would definitely find all the meanings. The book is no predictable and you never know what’s coming.
Parent need to know that Steven Arntson books deals with a girl named Gabriela who gets a frightening letter that she will die and be sent to the afterlife if she's ready or not. This book deals a lot with the afterlife and a what it is. There are some real life issues that are talked about in this book like death, crushes, and sexuality. They deal with these issues through teamwork which is also a big role in this book. Never giving up and not being afraid to fight for what's right.
I recommend this book to ages 12-15. I recommend it to mostly the teens. Females would like it more since the protagonist is a female.
Authour: Steven Arntson
Genre:Fiction
Topics: Friendships,death,letter,bucket list
Pages:237
Age Range:11-14
Talk to your kids about how the characters relate to you
How does the book theme “ never give up” relate to real life situations
Is this book say something about our future
A teen girl named Gabriela is only worrying about high school but her worries change when she gets home. She gets a terrifying letter stating she will go to the afterlife escorted by a shadowy figure named Hercule. She makes a list of things she wants to do before she departs called her wrap up list. She sends it to Hercule to figure out how to get them achieved. Her wasp up list consist of her getting her first kiss and her friends getting there first kiss.Will she achieve her wrap up list? Is there a way to get away from her death?
This book has a great story with great characters. There is definitely growth in the characters throughout the story. The wrap up list pulls you in with its first few sentences “Some people die from heart attacks, and some from falling off ladders… But some people don’t die-they depart” (Arntson pg 3 ). Although it has a great plot there are times where the story gets confusing and all over the place. This book is very good showing the teamwork and friendship used when solving the different problems. This book also has so outstanding achievements. This book was a finalist at 2014 Washington State Book Award. Also Voya stated “The wrap up list is likely to appeal to fans of the end of life issue genre.” "Quirky, charming and life-affirming, supernatural style." The first time reading it I did not know the true meaning. But if I go and read it again I would definitely find all the meanings. The book is no predictable and you never know what’s coming.
Parent need to know that Steven Arntson books deals with a girl named Gabriela who gets a frightening letter that she will die and be sent to the afterlife if she's ready or not. This book deals a lot with the afterlife and a what it is. There are some real life issues that are talked about in this book like death, crushes, and sexuality. They deal with these issues through teamwork which is also a big role in this book. Never giving up and not being afraid to fight for what's right.
I recommend this book to ages 12-15. I recommend it to mostly the teens. Females would like it more since the protagonist is a female.
Authour: Steven Arntson
Genre:Fiction
Topics: Friendships,death,letter,bucket list
Pages:237
Age Range:11-14
Talk to your kids about how the characters relate to you
How does the book theme “ never give up” relate to real life situations
Is this book say something about our future
December 20, 2019
“The Wrap-Up List” is a book that can teach you to appreciate life more and live it to the fullest but in someone else’s perspective. In this story sixteen-year old Gabriela (main character), gets a letter from a creature that takes you to your after life called a death. The three other main characters are actually Gabriella’s best friends, Iris, Raahi, and Sarena. In my opinion the most interesting part of the book is near the ending and some parts of the ending itself. The book has a little romance to it, at Gabriela’s school she likes this popular guy named Sylvester. Suspense is shown in the beginning of the fourth chapter. “1. First Kiss-for Iris, -A cavalier request, Gabriela.,2. First Kiss-for Raahi, -See #1.”. This is an example of suspense because the part of this quote gives hints by the death that Gabriela will be dying(taken to her after life) soon so he gives her, her original wrap-up list with marks. In chapter six , it states “Deaths usually steer clear of friends and relatives because they’re worried people will find out their Noble Weakness and share the information.”. In this quote it gives of suspense if Gabriela could figure out the death’s weakness since this death in particular(Hecule) was Gabriela’s grandfather. Near the end of the book chapter twenty-four is when Gabriela is about to depart. She says goodbye to everyone. “Thank you for being my friend, M. Hale.”. I can tell throughout this chapter that she is really sad about leaving the world and wishes she can have more time. However in the end Gabriela actually figures out the death’s weakness! “Your Noble Weakness is giving away a pardon!”. After she finds it’s weakness she gets sent back home This story can relate to be because my aunt died two years ago expectedly, it doesn’t have to do with any death angel taking her in to her after life or anything, but she had a feeling she would die soon and she predicted she would die before her mom which was true. Honestly I would give this book a good 4/5 at least.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 19, 2022
Overall, a good read. At first, I thought it was a scythe knock-off; as I read, it’s more of an inspiration and built from there. I liked the humor, the ridiculousness blended with the serious and frightening prospect of departing: isn’t that Life? Death looms every day, we, any of us, might go at any moment. I appreciate the respect afforded the Catholic Church, and the faith of the characters, especially Gabby’s dad. He is nowhere scorned for his faith.
Rating: pg - lots of death, no language
Diversity : lgbtq character coming out. This was interesting re: homosexuality: “No,” says Father Ernesto, “but it is different for women sometimes. For a man, it absolutely cannot be—obviously it’s a mortal sin. But for a woman, perhaps it’s not always so serious.” I stare at him. I’d expected him to tell me that Iris’s soul was in jeopardy, but instead he seems to be saying . . . actually, I don’t know what he’s saying. Is he saying women’s sins count for less?
Rating: pg - lots of death, no language
Diversity : lgbtq character coming out. This was interesting re: homosexuality: “No,” says Father Ernesto, “but it is different for women sometimes. For a man, it absolutely cannot be—obviously it’s a mortal sin. But for a woman, perhaps it’s not always so serious.” I stare at him. I’d expected him to tell me that Iris’s soul was in jeopardy, but instead he seems to be saying . . . actually, I don’t know what he’s saying. Is he saying women’s sins count for less?
January 10, 2022
What a refreshing new spin on "Death". Unlike so many young adults novels, the characters were actually partrayed as typical teenagers. Steven did a great job executing normal teenage behaviors, with crushes, and angst, and characters growth. Gabriela started off kind of lost, but then she grew into this caring, giving, witty girl. I loved her.
April 10, 2022
Very disappointing. The world-building was practically nonexistent, Sylvester was never properly examined, the book wasn't actually about the list at all, and random details about characters were introduced, used to inch the plot along a bit, and then completely cast aside. And were we supposed to be able to guess Gretchen's Noble Weakness, or is it truly impossible to?
May 16, 2022
The book was amazing! I loved the friendship between the four characters and the love blossoming between Sarena and Raahi. The book was great and I loved how it ended. I wish that the friendship between the death and the mc could have been exploited more in the end but it ads the touch of sincerity because of the short amount time they spent together.
May 23, 2017
This is a book that if someone has a general interest in reading, I immediately recommend it. I think what is so great about this story is that there are so many layers that all people can find something they really enjoy about it and take away a beautiful story of sacrifice, love and family.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 192 reviews