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Far from You
Lost and alone down the rabbit hole. Alice thought she knew what solitude Her mother—gone Her father—remarried with a newborn daughter. Now... trapped in the icy embrace of a deadly snowstorm Alice faces the true meaning of loneliness. But hope may not be as far away as she thinks....
355 pages, Paperback
First published December 18, 2008
80 people are currently reading
7998 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Schroeder
38 books2,099 followersLisa Schroeder is the author of more than twenty books for kids and teens. Her latest novel is A NIGHT TO DIE FOR, a YA murder mystery. She lives in Oregon where she works full-time and writes when she can.
twitter: www.twitter.com/lisa_schroeder
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twitter: www.twitter.com/lisa_schroeder
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 481 reviews
January 3, 2014
Before I really knew what was happening I was done with this book. It draws you in so quick, and is such a breeze to read it's hard not to gobble it up in one sitting. I had thought to read it again before I did a review, but I felt like I had to write one now.
It's in verse so at first that gets some getting use to. No worries there is a sufficient amount of dialogue, so it never feels too "poemy". You'd think with the length of this book you wouldn't feel attached to the characters or that they wouldn't be three dimensional, but they totally are. Each one had a unique quality to bring to the book.
The book begins innocently enough. Alice is dealing with the death of her mother, getting used to a new sister, new mom, her wonderful boyfriend, and the rocky relationship with her friend Claire. Things change drastically when Alice, Ivy (her new born half sister), and Vic (her new stepmom) get stuck in a snowstorm. This forces all involved to see each other in a different light. I was shocked to realize I liked this so much. It was so short and to the point, but never felt like something was missing. It gives you the message that things bigger than us are at play in helping us. Something we need to hear every once in awhile.
Oh I have to mention how symbolic the whole thing that happens to the guitar (can't say what happens, kind of would be a little spoiler). I also found that her boyfriend's name being Blaze was kind of fitting. You know her being in all that cold and her "Blaze" was part of what kept her going.
It's in verse so at first that gets some getting use to. No worries there is a sufficient amount of dialogue, so it never feels too "poemy". You'd think with the length of this book you wouldn't feel attached to the characters or that they wouldn't be three dimensional, but they totally are. Each one had a unique quality to bring to the book.
The book begins innocently enough. Alice is dealing with the death of her mother, getting used to a new sister, new mom, her wonderful boyfriend, and the rocky relationship with her friend Claire. Things change drastically when Alice, Ivy (her new born half sister), and Vic (her new stepmom) get stuck in a snowstorm. This forces all involved to see each other in a different light. I was shocked to realize I liked this so much. It was so short and to the point, but never felt like something was missing. It gives you the message that things bigger than us are at play in helping us. Something we need to hear every once in awhile.
Oh I have to mention how symbolic the whole thing that happens to the guitar (can't say what happens, kind of would be a little spoiler). I also found that her boyfriend's name being Blaze was kind of fitting. You know her being in all that cold and her "Blaze" was part of what kept her going.
June 8, 2022
This was so incredibly well done and beautiful, I loved it!
December 26, 2020
SPOLIERS ARE INCLOSED BY RED HEARTS. so if you see red hearts scroll till you see red hearts again and read below
INTERVIEWER: Hello Zoe. It seems you have requested to review this book?
————————————————
ME: Yes, yes I have.
INTERVIEWER: alright I’ll just ask you some questions like normal.
INTERVIEWER: Did the book live up to your expectations?
————————————————
It surpassed them!!
INTERVIEWER: what were your thoughts on the characters?
————————————————
Alice- You feel for her. She is going through a lot and figuring out who she is. She is such a great character and you can completely relate to her❤️
Victoria-didn’t like her at the beginning but as it went on I warmed up to her. She is a bit annoying still to me😂
INTERVIEWER: Could you connect well with the characters?
————————————————
Yes definitely. Alice was facing real life problems that we can all relate to!
INTERVIEWER: what were your thoughts on the relationships?
————————————————
Alice and Blaze-🤮idk why but I don’t ship them. Their personality’s and all don’t seem to fit.
INTERVIEWER: what were ur thoughts on any deaths?
————————————————
There were none✨
INTERVIEWER: how was the ending?
————————————————
I loved the ending🥰 it was pulled together really nicely!
INTERVIEWER: Who was your favorite character and why?
————————————————
Probably Alice. I love her strength and her not wanting to give up.
INTERVIEWER: did the story keep you guessing?
————————————————
Not really.
INTERVIEWER: was it slow or fast paced?
————————————————
Fast paced! It was written In Verse so it was a quick read🥰
INTERVIEWER: What was your favorite part?
————————————————
When she meets the Angel and she describes how she feels and gets her courage and bravery back.
INTERVIEWER: Was it exciting enough to keep you reading?
————————————————
Yes! I loved it🥰
INTERVIEWER: did you laugh or cry?
————————————————
No and No! I never do😅
INTERVIEWER: did the story grip you?
————————————————
yes! But not in an intense way.
INTERVIEWER: was there any sexual content?
————————————————
No. Just kissing. Her and Blaze talk about “getting together” but she decides it’s not the time.
INTERVIEWER: Did you enjoy the writing style?
————————————————
Yes✨ I’ve loved Lisa Shroeder’s work since I was in Middle School. And it written in verse was even more beautiful.
INTERVIEWER: who would u suggest this to?
————————————————
I’m not quite sure. Anyone who loves music and step mother and daughter relationship growing.
INTERVIEWER: thank you. That will be all. I’ll be happy to see you in your next review.
INTERVIEWER: Hello Zoe. It seems you have requested to review this book?
————————————————
ME: Yes, yes I have.
INTERVIEWER: alright I’ll just ask you some questions like normal.
INTERVIEWER: Did the book live up to your expectations?
————————————————
It surpassed them!!
INTERVIEWER: what were your thoughts on the characters?
————————————————
Alice- You feel for her. She is going through a lot and figuring out who she is. She is such a great character and you can completely relate to her❤️
Victoria-didn’t like her at the beginning but as it went on I warmed up to her. She is a bit annoying still to me😂
INTERVIEWER: Could you connect well with the characters?
————————————————
Yes definitely. Alice was facing real life problems that we can all relate to!
INTERVIEWER: what were your thoughts on the relationships?
————————————————
Alice and Blaze-🤮idk why but I don’t ship them. Their personality’s and all don’t seem to fit.
INTERVIEWER: what were ur thoughts on any deaths?
————————————————
There were none✨
INTERVIEWER: how was the ending?
————————————————
I loved the ending🥰 it was pulled together really nicely!
INTERVIEWER: Who was your favorite character and why?
————————————————
Probably Alice. I love her strength and her not wanting to give up.
INTERVIEWER: did the story keep you guessing?
————————————————
Not really.
INTERVIEWER: was it slow or fast paced?
————————————————
Fast paced! It was written In Verse so it was a quick read🥰
INTERVIEWER: What was your favorite part?
————————————————
When she meets the Angel and she describes how she feels and gets her courage and bravery back.
INTERVIEWER: Was it exciting enough to keep you reading?
————————————————
Yes! I loved it🥰
INTERVIEWER: did you laugh or cry?
————————————————
No and No! I never do😅
INTERVIEWER: did the story grip you?
————————————————
yes! But not in an intense way.
INTERVIEWER: was there any sexual content?
————————————————
No. Just kissing. Her and Blaze talk about “getting together” but she decides it’s not the time.
INTERVIEWER: Did you enjoy the writing style?
————————————————
Yes✨ I’ve loved Lisa Shroeder’s work since I was in Middle School. And it written in verse was even more beautiful.
INTERVIEWER: who would u suggest this to?
————————————————
I’m not quite sure. Anyone who loves music and step mother and daughter relationship growing.
INTERVIEWER: thank you. That will be all. I’ll be happy to see you in your next review.
November 15, 2015
3.5 stars
Interested in more of my reviews? Visit my blog!
’Memories fall like snowflakes upon my dreams.’
The Storyline
Alice lost her mother years ago but it changed her deeply despite the fact that everyone else around her has moved on. Her father has remarried a woman named Victoria and they’ve just had their first child; Ivy. Not able to accept this new family of hers, she remains as distant as possible. The two constants in her life are her best friend Claire and her boyfriend Blaze.
On the way home from Victoria’s parent’s house, Alice, Ivy, and Victoria get stuck in a snow bank on the side of the road with very little to survive on. Despite the dreadful situation, it does allow Alice and Victoria to get to know one another and Alice finally begins to realize that there really is happiness still left in the world.
My Thoughts
Finding out that this was written in verse I immediately moved it up in my list. I’m new to discovering this writing style but it’s become an instant favorite of mine. I did enjoy the writing of Lisa Schroeder; it was chalk full of beautiful, vibrant lines.
The story itself was enjoyable despite its predictability, although I did not anticipate it being quite as religious as it ended up being. This was an extremely quick read that still manages to showcase each of the characters nicely and makes them thoroughly relatable. I definitely enjoyed it and will be adding Lisa Schroeder to my list of authors to look out for.
”…it’s no use going back to yesterday, because I was a different person then.”
Interested in more of my reviews? Visit my blog!
’Memories fall like snowflakes upon my dreams.’
The Storyline
Alice lost her mother years ago but it changed her deeply despite the fact that everyone else around her has moved on. Her father has remarried a woman named Victoria and they’ve just had their first child; Ivy. Not able to accept this new family of hers, she remains as distant as possible. The two constants in her life are her best friend Claire and her boyfriend Blaze.
On the way home from Victoria’s parent’s house, Alice, Ivy, and Victoria get stuck in a snow bank on the side of the road with very little to survive on. Despite the dreadful situation, it does allow Alice and Victoria to get to know one another and Alice finally begins to realize that there really is happiness still left in the world.
My Thoughts
Finding out that this was written in verse I immediately moved it up in my list. I’m new to discovering this writing style but it’s become an instant favorite of mine. I did enjoy the writing of Lisa Schroeder; it was chalk full of beautiful, vibrant lines.
The story itself was enjoyable despite its predictability, although I did not anticipate it being quite as religious as it ended up being. This was an extremely quick read that still manages to showcase each of the characters nicely and makes them thoroughly relatable. I definitely enjoyed it and will be adding Lisa Schroeder to my list of authors to look out for.
”…it’s no use going back to yesterday, because I was a different person then.”
September 16, 2009
Alright, I admit that at the beginning I wasn't all that excited about reading this. It's in poem form and I don't usually understand poems. People in poems are usually really depressed, which in turn makes me depressed or totally confused. I found this book surprisingly easy to read though. It's strange at first because the sentences sound kinda choppy, but you adapt pretty quickly and the words start to flow much better.
Quick Overview: Alice has lost her mother to cancer and has to deal with a dad that pushes her away because she reminds him so much of her. She still hasn't gotten over the fact that her mother has died and time hasn't done much healing. She's angry at her dad and doesn't like her stepmother, even if everyone else seems to think she's nice. She's also a new big sister, but she doesn't feel like pretending to be a happy family. The only bright lights in her life are her friend Claire, her great boyfriend Blaze, and playing her music. So when her dad and her stepmother Victoria tell her that they're all going to Victoria's family for Thanksgiving she's not happy. But something happens that forces Alice to look at the life she has and to "find the gift in the little things".
First off, I absolutely HATED Alice at the beginning. I thought that she was totally selfish and mean and it made me really want to stop reading the book. It also annoyed me that it constantly talks about how much she kisses and loves Blaze. Even if Blaze proves to be a great guy I kept thinking: Alright I get it, they love each other! But seriously the second half of the book totally makes up for it! It was so beautiful and I loved how she bonds with Victoria and Ivy. I thought the thing about teen sex was dealt with really well, and she decided not to do it for the right reasons. I was so worried about how everything would end, and I was very satisfied with the outcome. A very beautiful story, you just have to get through the depressing beginning. It's totally worth it.
Quick Overview: Alice has lost her mother to cancer and has to deal with a dad that pushes her away because she reminds him so much of her. She still hasn't gotten over the fact that her mother has died and time hasn't done much healing. She's angry at her dad and doesn't like her stepmother, even if everyone else seems to think she's nice. She's also a new big sister, but she doesn't feel like pretending to be a happy family. The only bright lights in her life are her friend Claire, her great boyfriend Blaze, and playing her music. So when her dad and her stepmother Victoria tell her that they're all going to Victoria's family for Thanksgiving she's not happy. But something happens that forces Alice to look at the life she has and to "find the gift in the little things".
First off, I absolutely HATED Alice at the beginning. I thought that she was totally selfish and mean and it made me really want to stop reading the book. It also annoyed me that it constantly talks about how much she kisses and loves Blaze. Even if Blaze proves to be a great guy I kept thinking: Alright I get it, they love each other! But seriously the second half of the book totally makes up for it! It was so beautiful and I loved how she bonds with Victoria and Ivy. I thought the thing about teen sex was dealt with really well, and she decided not to do it for the right reasons. I was so worried about how everything would end, and I was very satisfied with the outcome. A very beautiful story, you just have to get through the depressing beginning. It's totally worth it.
Read
September 20, 2008This is my second book, about a girl, Alice, who is a singer/songwriter.
September 22, 2017
“Wonderland is here now.
Don’t know what we might see.
Yesterday’s gone forever.
But my future’s up to me.
What a future it will be….”
Don’t know what we might see.
Yesterday’s gone forever.
But my future’s up to me.
What a future it will be….”
January 19, 2012
Words Words Words…
I have completely fallen under Lisa Schroeder’s enchanting and magical way with words. Such power and emotion rise out of her seemingly simple, straight forward and beautifully strung together words. Ms. Schroeder gut punched me more than once with this one!
Far From You tells the story of Alice and her journey of pain, loss and growth after her mother’s death. Her father has moved on and remarried with a new baby on the way—so where does Alice fit in now? I can still feel the hole in Alice’s heart in my own. Loss, emptiness, grief, selfishness, spirituality, passion, love, and so much more are all captured and conveyed in these words and pages. Alice’s loss, longing, and love of family warmed my heart and pulled me right in. I felt almost safe within the words.
How? How can verse style evoke such a reaction out of me with just a handful of words on each page? Verse books used to terrify me, but now I am just in awe! The mystery, power, and love of words will never cease to bowl me over. The same can be said for Ms. Schroeder’s writing! A truly beautiful experience.
Alice's story inspired me to try to find love in new ways, let go of some anger, and see the little things again that make me smile. See what she does to your heart.
“The wave
of emotion
grows
bigger and bigger,
becoming a
tsunami
as I pound the seat
with my fist
over
and over
and over
and over
and over,
harder
and harder
and harder
and harder
and harder,
until my hand hurts
And I SCREEEEEEEAAAAM”
I have completely fallen under Lisa Schroeder’s enchanting and magical way with words. Such power and emotion rise out of her seemingly simple, straight forward and beautifully strung together words. Ms. Schroeder gut punched me more than once with this one!
Far From You tells the story of Alice and her journey of pain, loss and growth after her mother’s death. Her father has moved on and remarried with a new baby on the way—so where does Alice fit in now? I can still feel the hole in Alice’s heart in my own. Loss, emptiness, grief, selfishness, spirituality, passion, love, and so much more are all captured and conveyed in these words and pages. Alice’s loss, longing, and love of family warmed my heart and pulled me right in. I felt almost safe within the words.
How? How can verse style evoke such a reaction out of me with just a handful of words on each page? Verse books used to terrify me, but now I am just in awe! The mystery, power, and love of words will never cease to bowl me over. The same can be said for Ms. Schroeder’s writing! A truly beautiful experience.
Alice's story inspired me to try to find love in new ways, let go of some anger, and see the little things again that make me smile. See what she does to your heart.
“The wave
of emotion
grows
bigger and bigger,
becoming a
tsunami
as I pound the seat
with my fist
over
and over
and over
and over
and over,
harder
and harder
and harder
and harder
and harder,
until my hand hurts
And I SCREEEEEEEAAAAM”
January 13, 2012
Oh how I love Lisa Schoeder's writing style. She just kept it small yet so full of emotions. Reading in verses excites me especially when it comes to her books. And this is a second book that I've read from her and honestly, it never disappoints me.
Reading her works is like reading a diary where you get to see real and raw feelings that doesn't sound exasperating at all.
Alice thinks she is left alone. Her mother died, her father remarried and the bad news is he's having a baby. All what's left of her is the comfort of her loving boyfriend, Blaze, which for me is too good too be true. I find Blaze to be such an amazing boyfriend, really. But it doesn't look so real the way he is way too inlove with her. Anyway, Alice just dislikes her stepmom so much but with a simple test of fate, she realizes people are actually good in there own way. They do not try to replace who was missing but simply fill up the space to make it more whole again.
I love the concept of the story how it focuses on great maternal love which I think is very divine. The story just jumped out of the pages and before I realize it, I was done. It wasn't such a sad ending but it looks to be a very good beginning for her with regards to the thought that she has the opportunity to start a new life.
xx
Reading her works is like reading a diary where you get to see real and raw feelings that doesn't sound exasperating at all.
Alice thinks she is left alone. Her mother died, her father remarried and the bad news is he's having a baby. All what's left of her is the comfort of her loving boyfriend, Blaze, which for me is too good too be true. I find Blaze to be such an amazing boyfriend, really. But it doesn't look so real the way he is way too inlove with her. Anyway, Alice just dislikes her stepmom so much but with a simple test of fate, she realizes people are actually good in there own way. They do not try to replace who was missing but simply fill up the space to make it more whole again.
I love the concept of the story how it focuses on great maternal love which I think is very divine. The story just jumped out of the pages and before I realize it, I was done. It wasn't such a sad ending but it looks to be a very good beginning for her with regards to the thought that she has the opportunity to start a new life.
"Funny how times go on, things change, and yet, some things stay exactly the same."
xx
February 1, 2010
WOW. Is all I can say...
I picked up this book at my local library and started it earlier today. The entire book is written in prose. Each chapter a new poem. For me, it was a nice break from the every day writing style we are used to. I finished it in a couple of hours because I couln't put it down.
Alice deals with the grief over losing her mother to cancer, adjustment to a new family dynamic, doubts of faith, and near tragedy. It is a beautifully rich yet down to earth and raw look at what it feels like to lose someone and have them replaced by new and strange people. I think it is a great read for any teen who has gone through trying to adjust to a new step-parent, or the loss of a parent. Alice also struggles with the question of abstinence and it is handled by her boyfriend Blaze in a mature and loving manner. I love that she held on to that belief and was supported in her decision.
The story touched at heart strings as Alice feels enveloped in a comfort and peace that is not of this world. She feels her life has been touched by an angel in the moments she struggles to save the life of her newborn half-sister. I was brought to tears by the encompassing process of healing and hope.
An absolute Gem. Five out of five stars!
See the book trailer here: http://fireandicephoto.blogspot.com
I picked up this book at my local library and started it earlier today. The entire book is written in prose. Each chapter a new poem. For me, it was a nice break from the every day writing style we are used to. I finished it in a couple of hours because I couln't put it down.
Alice deals with the grief over losing her mother to cancer, adjustment to a new family dynamic, doubts of faith, and near tragedy. It is a beautifully rich yet down to earth and raw look at what it feels like to lose someone and have them replaced by new and strange people. I think it is a great read for any teen who has gone through trying to adjust to a new step-parent, or the loss of a parent. Alice also struggles with the question of abstinence and it is handled by her boyfriend Blaze in a mature and loving manner. I love that she held on to that belief and was supported in her decision.
The story touched at heart strings as Alice feels enveloped in a comfort and peace that is not of this world. She feels her life has been touched by an angel in the moments she struggles to save the life of her newborn half-sister. I was brought to tears by the encompassing process of healing and hope.
An absolute Gem. Five out of five stars!
See the book trailer here: http://fireandicephoto.blogspot.com
August 27, 2016
In the beginning I didn't like Allison. Mostly because she was so self-pitying and selfish. She wanted her father all to herself and therefore resented her stepmother. She, in a way, just refused to be truly happy (except when she was with Blaze). Allison did make some good points and I could forgive her some because she was hurting but she could've at least TRIED to make things better for herself. She grows during the course of the book, well mostly when she is trapped in the storm with her stepmother and half sister. She realizes that it isn't all about her and also that she will always have her mother.
I like that the one relationship that held true was the one Allison had with her boyfriend. She struggled with her other relationships. In most of the books I've read, it usually the other way around. Its something refreshingly different.
The poetry format put me off a bit at first but I could follow easily. The format added good emphasize when the author was trying to make a point. I felt for Allison. I could see her uncertainty, sadness, and pleasure come out of the story. I thought it was good writing if you didn't catch that. A lot of emotion for such a short book.
I like that the one relationship that held true was the one Allison had with her boyfriend. She struggled with her other relationships. In most of the books I've read, it usually the other way around. Its something refreshingly different.
The poetry format put me off a bit at first but I could follow easily. The format added good emphasize when the author was trying to make a point. I felt for Allison. I could see her uncertainty, sadness, and pleasure come out of the story. I thought it was good writing if you didn't catch that. A lot of emotion for such a short book.
November 18, 2018
This is now one of my favorite books that I have ever read. It is about a girl with a new step-Mom and step-sister. And one day something bad happens and they come together as a family. At the end of the book on if the things she says is “ it’s no use going back to yesterday because I was a different person then” and I can relate to that because of something else that makes her feel that way. It looks like a long book but really it isn’t. It is poetry but really short. I STRONGLY recommend this book to anyone.
March 25, 2012
Oh,Lisa! And I thought I wouldn't cry!
Tak tohle byla má prvotní reakce po přečtení další knihy z pera této talentované autorky. Nemá smysl se neustále opakovat, jak jedinečný styl psaní Lisa má, jak umí chytnout člověka za srdce, jak ho umí ponaučit, vzpamatovat se z reality a chvíli nechat popřemýšlet, na čem tady na zemi v našich životech doopravdy záleží. Je to láska. Vždycky to byla, je a bude láska. Ne jen k přátelům a k našim partnerům, ale také k rodině a k lidem, kteří se bez našeho přičinění objeví v našich životech.
Kdo ještě neudělal tak významný krok pro sebe samotného a nepřečetl si alespoň jedno dílko od Lisy, měl by tak určitě co nejdříve učinit. Já osobně se stále divím a teď se můj div po přečtení další knihy jen prohloubil, proč a z jakého důvodu jsme se ještě nedočkali překladu. Knihy od Lisy jsou sice řazeny jako YA literatura, ale jako romány ve verších by měla být přístupna všem. Všichni všech věkových skupin by se měli poučit. Všem by tyhle romány hodně daly. Hodně lidí by si poplakalo a cítilo by se přitom tak, kruci, příjemně.
Far From You je další z těch knih, kde se setkáváme se ztrátou člověka a smrtí jako takovou. Odmítáme se učit "znovu" žít, odmítáme se podvolovat nátlaku ostatních, že je už na čase jít dál, vedeme si svou a truchlíme si v tom svém životě a světě a trápíme tak i ty ostatní. Každý má na všem vinu, každý se chová, jako by nám v životě nic nechybělo. Neuvědomujeme si, že se z nás, kdysi skvělých lidí, staly trosky a sobečtí lidé. Ale jakmile se dostaneme do momentu, kdy jsme sami takhle blizoučko vlastní smrti, stačí doslova pár chvil, pár krušných okamžiků a pláčeme sami nad sebou, když si vše uvědomíme. Ale, zaplať pánbůh, že k tomu vědomí dojdeme. Zaplať pánbůh, že ještě víme, kdo jsme, a že se umíme najít.
Tak tohle byla má prvotní reakce po přečtení další knihy z pera této talentované autorky. Nemá smysl se neustále opakovat, jak jedinečný styl psaní Lisa má, jak umí chytnout člověka za srdce, jak ho umí ponaučit, vzpamatovat se z reality a chvíli nechat popřemýšlet, na čem tady na zemi v našich životech doopravdy záleží. Je to láska. Vždycky to byla, je a bude láska. Ne jen k přátelům a k našim partnerům, ale také k rodině a k lidem, kteří se bez našeho přičinění objeví v našich životech.
Kdo ještě neudělal tak významný krok pro sebe samotného a nepřečetl si alespoň jedno dílko od Lisy, měl by tak určitě co nejdříve učinit. Já osobně se stále divím a teď se můj div po přečtení další knihy jen prohloubil, proč a z jakého důvodu jsme se ještě nedočkali překladu. Knihy od Lisy jsou sice řazeny jako YA literatura, ale jako romány ve verších by měla být přístupna všem. Všichni všech věkových skupin by se měli poučit. Všem by tyhle romány hodně daly. Hodně lidí by si poplakalo a cítilo by se přitom tak, kruci, příjemně.
Far From You je další z těch knih, kde se setkáváme se ztrátou člověka a smrtí jako takovou. Odmítáme se učit "znovu" žít, odmítáme se podvolovat nátlaku ostatních, že je už na čase jít dál, vedeme si svou a truchlíme si v tom svém životě a světě a trápíme tak i ty ostatní. Každý má na všem vinu, každý se chová, jako by nám v životě nic nechybělo. Neuvědomujeme si, že se z nás, kdysi skvělých lidí, staly trosky a sobečtí lidé. Ale jakmile se dostaneme do momentu, kdy jsme sami takhle blizoučko vlastní smrti, stačí doslova pár chvil, pár krušných okamžiků a pláčeme sami nad sebou, když si vše uvědomíme. Ale, zaplať pánbůh, že k tomu vědomí dojdeme. Zaplať pánbůh, že ještě víme, kdo jsme, a že se umíme najít.
August 26, 2009
At first I was worried that Alice's tale would be just another teen angst story, but written in captivating verse, Lisa Schroeder's words caught my attention right away. Alice Andreeson, a normal girl with normal problems, felt amazingly real to me. Dealing with her father starting a new marriage after her mothers death, we saw Alice her in her happy moments and sad moments. I was impressed that we even saw her traveling through the very same daydreams I have as she deals with her friend's surprising betrayal. Any reader will be able to relate to Alice's universal feelings of loneliness and eventually hope as well as their own capacity for bravery once Alice's harrowing adventure through a blizzard
takes shape. At the end of the book I couldn't help but wish for the opportunity to brush up next to some of the dangerous situations Alice had, just so I could say I've done it! I highly recommend Far From You to anyone looking for a quick and exciting read.
takes shape. At the end of the book I couldn't help but wish for the opportunity to brush up next to some of the dangerous situations Alice had, just so I could say I've done it! I highly recommend Far From You to anyone looking for a quick and exciting read.
June 28, 2021
2011, 4 stars:: Really lovely. It's a keeper.
2014: I have to add the missing star. The rereading experience turned out to be even better than the primary jump into the snow.
2021: I was so sure I re-read that last year or the year before that. 2014? Seriously? Where does time go?
2014: I have to add the missing star. The rereading experience turned out to be even better than the primary jump into the snow.
2021: I was so sure I re-read that last year or the year before that. 2014? Seriously? Where does time go?
November 4, 2011
It's simply unbelievable how Lisa Schroeder expresses emotions so beautifully in her books, every line is on a right place.
..Wonderland is here now.
Don’t know what we might see.
Yesterday’s gone forever.
But my future’s up to me.
What a future it will be….
..Wonderland is here now.
Don’t know what we might see.
Yesterday’s gone forever.
But my future’s up to me.
What a future it will be….
November 17, 2017
My reading teacher gave this book to me to read, at first i was skeptical about it i don't know why i was skeptical i just was. But after I read the first poem I knew this was going to be a great book. Guess what... it wasn't just a great book it was a amazing book. Lisa Schroeder is a great author but the sad part is my reading teachers other books written by Lisa Schroeder were misplaced. Now we must wait for the new books to come in and I am really excited. Lisa Schroeder's books give a good input on things that maybe happening in your life and helps you along the way. In this book its about a girl who's mother died and now she has to deal with her step mother which she hates but later on in the story her opinion changes
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 12, 2010
I really, really, truly loved this book!
The story was great, amazing! The events throught out the book were so memorable and beautifully written. Man, it was so beautiful. Let's move on now.
When you read this book(if your a girl), you have to love Blaze. The way he is described and the way the author makes him act, is so whats the word... AMAZING! Man, Blaze is like the perfect boyfriend. If he were real, I would totally go out with him. Int he book, he is described as hot, sensitive and is an awesome kisser. Man, I love Blaze.He's just so AMAZING!
Moving on...
Claire. Honestly, I had a natural dislike for Claire. I don't know why. It's the same dislike that I have for Justin Bieber. Claire, she's just not, great. Ya know. Her character is great, it's just her thats not great(to me)...
This book is a bit contraversial. It has lots of things to do with god. Blaze doesn't like god. Claire loves god. And for Alice, it's an on and off situation. I can't technically say anything about the religious aspects in the book since I'm not Christian or anything, but, some stuff in the book might, I said might, make some Christians annoyed or upset.
The music in this book is AMAZING! The author wrote them beautifully and meaningfully. I really liked the first song that was introduced in the book. It just spoke to me. And when Claire was all up in Alice's songs saying that they were too depressing, I was like, kinda pissed. Alice's music is sooo amazing.
Ivy, the baby. Even though she was the baby in this book, she took a big part. I don't wanna say why because that would be spoiling it but, yeah. I love the name Ivy!
There's also the sex aspect of the book. Sex is a very important matter to Alice in the book. She had many thoughts about it. Though sex wasn't one like a major issue that took a huge part in the book. It was interesting when it was.
Let's go back to Blaze. Just kidding. A big part in this book is art and music. Alice's mom was a amazing artist. Art and music wise. Alice says that she got her art abilities from her mom. And I agree. It's sad what "happens" but I think it made Alice relize things.
I love the whole idea of Alice being named after Alice in Alice in Wonderland(woah).I think it's just great being named after people in books. It just makes me happy.
Overall, the book was amazing and it was just AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!! I recommend this book to everyone! Man, it was just so amazing! Man, amazing. Huh, just, simply amazing.
P.S. Love Blaze. :3
The story was great, amazing! The events throught out the book were so memorable and beautifully written. Man, it was so beautiful. Let's move on now.
When you read this book(if your a girl), you have to love Blaze. The way he is described and the way the author makes him act, is so whats the word... AMAZING! Man, Blaze is like the perfect boyfriend. If he were real, I would totally go out with him. Int he book, he is described as hot, sensitive and is an awesome kisser. Man, I love Blaze.He's just so AMAZING!
Moving on...
Claire. Honestly, I had a natural dislike for Claire. I don't know why. It's the same dislike that I have for Justin Bieber. Claire, she's just not, great. Ya know. Her character is great, it's just her thats not great(to me)...
This book is a bit contraversial. It has lots of things to do with god. Blaze doesn't like god. Claire loves god. And for Alice, it's an on and off situation. I can't technically say anything about the religious aspects in the book since I'm not Christian or anything, but, some stuff in the book might, I said might, make some Christians annoyed or upset.
The music in this book is AMAZING! The author wrote them beautifully and meaningfully. I really liked the first song that was introduced in the book. It just spoke to me. And when Claire was all up in Alice's songs saying that they were too depressing, I was like, kinda pissed. Alice's music is sooo amazing.
Ivy, the baby. Even though she was the baby in this book, she took a big part. I don't wanna say why because that would be spoiling it but, yeah. I love the name Ivy!
There's also the sex aspect of the book. Sex is a very important matter to Alice in the book. She had many thoughts about it. Though sex wasn't one like a major issue that took a huge part in the book. It was interesting when it was.
Let's go back to Blaze. Just kidding. A big part in this book is art and music. Alice's mom was a amazing artist. Art and music wise. Alice says that she got her art abilities from her mom. And I agree. It's sad what "happens" but I think it made Alice relize things.
I love the whole idea of Alice being named after Alice in Alice in Wonderland(woah).I think it's just great being named after people in books. It just makes me happy.
Overall, the book was amazing and it was just AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!! I recommend this book to everyone! Man, it was just so amazing! Man, amazing. Huh, just, simply amazing.
P.S. Love Blaze. :3
December 28, 2015
This was my first time reading this new style of novel writing I'm seeing around more and more, where it's made to look like a poetry book, lots and lots of white space, some pages only have one or two sentences on them. I was pleasantly surprised, I actually enjoyed reading this way. The pages turned really fast. The author captures moments of emotion that I really felt (with her boyfriend, missing her mother).
But I rated it 4 stars for the authors writing ability, she's a good writer, not for my personal likes and dislikes as to story preference. I would have rated it 3 stars for my personal preference, because I would have much rather had Alice grow to like / understand her step-mother better over a more gradual change of heart rather than a crises, that's just me though.
I didn't like the crisis very much for two reasons, 1. I've had a baby that was 3 months old and I found the crisis unbelievable at times (even 4 hours at Walmart with a newborn would have been more traumatic in real life than the many days they go through in this book) and, 2. when I was able to stretch my imagination to believe what was happening, I found it really depressing and the hopelessness too draining, like it went on and on. Being in a situation like that with a newborn is just too disturbing to think about (for me), it's just one of those things I don't think a person could write about unless they experienced it first hand.
The writing itself was great and the book was a good read for anyone who hasn't actually had a newborn of their own. I personally would not have forgiven the father as easily as Alice did, not for a long time. He should have been there, he shouldn't have gone on his business trip, it's his fault, he should have been there for his newborn, I really dislike him. I was so angry with him through the entire book and still dislike him even now. I think Alice is a lot nicer than me :P
But I rated it 4 stars for the authors writing ability, she's a good writer, not for my personal likes and dislikes as to story preference. I would have rated it 3 stars for my personal preference, because I would have much rather had Alice grow to like / understand her step-mother better over a more gradual change of heart rather than a crises, that's just me though.
I didn't like the crisis very much for two reasons, 1. I've had a baby that was 3 months old and I found the crisis unbelievable at times (even 4 hours at Walmart with a newborn would have been more traumatic in real life than the many days they go through in this book) and, 2. when I was able to stretch my imagination to believe what was happening, I found it really depressing and the hopelessness too draining, like it went on and on. Being in a situation like that with a newborn is just too disturbing to think about (for me), it's just one of those things I don't think a person could write about unless they experienced it first hand.
The writing itself was great and the book was a good read for anyone who hasn't actually had a newborn of their own. I personally would not have forgiven the father as easily as Alice did, not for a long time. He should have been there, he shouldn't have gone on his business trip, it's his fault, he should have been there for his newborn, I really dislike him. I was so angry with him through the entire book and still dislike him even now. I think Alice is a lot nicer than me :P
February 16, 2009
Far From You is a story about overcoming the immense pain of loss and having the courage to love. Sixteen yrs. old Alice is dealing with the loss of her her mother and her sudden gain of a new step-mom and baby sister. The only seemingly good thing in her life is Blaze and her music.
Without much warning, an innocent trip gone wrong leaves Alice to confront her feelings and to have the will to survive.
Lisa Schroeder's writing is completely subliminal. The words on each page just flow through you, resonating and leaving you with so much to think about. It's easy to identify with Alice even in you haven't had a loved one pass away. It's easy for everyone to grasp an idea of pain she feels in the novel. Reading this book made me think over my own life. It makes you want to be stronger, more courageous.
This is a fantastic read if your like me and on short time. I think readers will like the verse style since it's "easier on the eyes" and seems to go by faster.
I don't know if its a necessarily a good thing since it's so good, and I wanted it to go on, but I'm definitely going to read this again. I'd love to see more YA books by Schroeder and I hope she continues to write.
Without much warning, an innocent trip gone wrong leaves Alice to confront her feelings and to have the will to survive.
Lisa Schroeder's writing is completely subliminal. The words on each page just flow through you, resonating and leaving you with so much to think about. It's easy to identify with Alice even in you haven't had a loved one pass away. It's easy for everyone to grasp an idea of pain she feels in the novel. Reading this book made me think over my own life. It makes you want to be stronger, more courageous.
This is a fantastic read if your like me and on short time. I think readers will like the verse style since it's "easier on the eyes" and seems to go by faster.
I don't know if its a necessarily a good thing since it's so good, and I wanted it to go on, but I'm definitely going to read this again. I'd love to see more YA books by Schroeder and I hope she continues to write.
January 8, 2011
I think i read this soon after a tragedy in my own life. It was very encouraging to read this book, and found it very inspiring. When you feel solitude whilst surrounded by people.
You don't need to be put in her situation to feel the raw hunger and need to be with someone. And in her situation, many a time it feels like a kilogram of salt is poured onto gaping wounds, and you wonder, "Why doesn't anyone see this?"
Whilst this book shows the rare occasion that someone may see the pain you don't express, the truth is, a lot of the times, no-one actually knows until you tell them.
Then, it kind of becomes too late, you're so used to being the one that's "ok" and "fine" that when you try to, or begin to attempt to say something, one uncomfortable look from others, or your own analysis of the terrible change of mood of everyone would clamp your mouth shut.
But then there are times when it is appropriate to say something, to express yourself when at other times you cannot. Grasp those times tightly, and don't lose the opportunity.
Miracles are rare, but if you can catch one, make sure to treasure it.
You don't need to be put in her situation to feel the raw hunger and need to be with someone. And in her situation, many a time it feels like a kilogram of salt is poured onto gaping wounds, and you wonder, "Why doesn't anyone see this?"
Whilst this book shows the rare occasion that someone may see the pain you don't express, the truth is, a lot of the times, no-one actually knows until you tell them.
Then, it kind of becomes too late, you're so used to being the one that's "ok" and "fine" that when you try to, or begin to attempt to say something, one uncomfortable look from others, or your own analysis of the terrible change of mood of everyone would clamp your mouth shut.
But then there are times when it is appropriate to say something, to express yourself when at other times you cannot. Grasp those times tightly, and don't lose the opportunity.
Miracles are rare, but if you can catch one, make sure to treasure it.
November 14, 2010
I absolutely loved this book. As someone who has had a stepmother (or two) in her life, I can completely relate to Ali's emotions in almost every way. I love that she lost herself in her music and her boyfriend, and felt so alienated from her family even though it was partly her fault. It's so true of how teenagers are. But the best part, in my opinion was just her overall growth. It was tense reading about her stuck in the snowstorm with her stepmother and baby sister, and I was constantly worrying if they would all make it through ok. But seeing Ali's perspective change, letting her guard down enough to allow her to see things differently was such a tender thing to read. By the end of the book I was crying my eyes out. I really liked I Love You, You Haunt Me, but this book has officially made Lisa Schroeder a must read author for me. Loved. It.
April 18, 2011
Alice’s mom died of cancer years ago and her father remarried. She dislikes her stepmom and doesn’t feel close to her newborn half-sister. She finds solace in writing songs and being with her boyfriend. When she’s stuck in a car with her stepmom and half-sister during a snowstorm, Alice reevaluates her life and her rocky relationships with others. When the snowstorm worsens and hours turn into days Alice feels the sensation of someone or something, perhaps a guardian angel, watching over her.
I was bawling by the end of this book—yes I’m a crier, but only if a book is awesome and beautiful and sad. FAR FROM YOU is a verse novel and goes by quickly, but in fewer words than a prose novel the author packed in so much emotion that I marveled at her style.
I was bawling by the end of this book—yes I’m a crier, but only if a book is awesome and beautiful and sad. FAR FROM YOU is a verse novel and goes by quickly, but in fewer words than a prose novel the author packed in so much emotion that I marveled at her style.
August 26, 2016
I was putting off reading this for a while now and finally, FINALLY, got around to reading this. Pretty sure a lot who read this, wasn't sure about the beginning. But you know what it does pick up and gets better, interesting, but better. The writing was really good, verse and all. Don't know else to say that others haven't said already. So yeah, pretty good.
March 17, 2022
5/5 stars
I can’t say anything bad about this book because it was a short, quick read in the form of a poem. What I loved about this book was that it showed the story of someone who experienced loss with so many emotions of grief, sadness and healing using only a few words. It gets to the point without the feeling rushed.
I can’t say anything bad about this book because it was a short, quick read in the form of a poem. What I loved about this book was that it showed the story of someone who experienced loss with so many emotions of grief, sadness and healing using only a few words. It gets to the point without the feeling rushed.
May 24, 2015
I love this. It’s so beautiful. I don’t know what else to say about it. It’s just so beautiful.
My only complaint is that it’s too short. WAY TOO SHORT. The pages just fly by. I feel like I spent no time at all reading.
Ahh, it’s absolutely amazing. <3
My only complaint is that it’s too short. WAY TOO SHORT. The pages just fly by. I feel like I spent no time at all reading.
Ahh, it’s absolutely amazing. <3
August 20, 2016
Actual rating: 3.5
The prose is lovely! I definitely need to read Lisa Schroeder's other verse novels.
The prose is lovely! I definitely need to read Lisa Schroeder's other verse novels.
December 5, 2022
listened to cigarettes after sex while reading this, i cried 10/10
Read
November 26, 2018Book title: Far from You
Personal Response:
I honestly thought this book was going to be a long shot. The book was poetry, and I don’t normally read poetry. This is the first poetry book I've read and I think it was a really good start to get me into the genre.
Summary:
The book Far from You by Lisa Schroeder is about a teen named Alice (Ali for short). It first starts out in a perspective to make you think Ali is very alone in the world from what has happened to her. First, her mother passes away, then to follow up to that her father remarries and has a baby named Ivy. with her stepmother. Ali thinks it’s basically the end of the world, and honestly, I can see why. Alice’s father, after her mother died, is trying to ignore her as much as he can, just because she reminds him of his wife too much. She hates the thought of her father with another woman different from her mother, so she tries to push her stepmother (Victoria or Vic) away for as long as she possibly can, until the days leading up to Thanksgiving. Victoria decides to visit her parents in California, then they stock up for the about 12-hour trip. They get to Victoria’s parents house, and only a few days in Alice’s father has to leave to go on a business trip to New York. Once her father leaves, Ali and Victoria leave as well since they heard there was a snow storm coming and they didn't want to get stuck in it. Nevertheless, they get caught in the storm. When Ali realized what happened she immediately wants to put the blame on someone. After a little less than a few hours, she realized that something needs to be done about their situation. Victoria & Ally try to use gift wrapping to flag someone down or get someone's attention. That didn't work. The next thing they do is find something for food, this including three to four bottles of water, one Dr. Pepper, two bags of chips, and one candy bar. This would be difficult to deal with because the baby needs formula and they only have a few bottles of water. Day two comes and they're already starting to lose hope. Two more days pass of feeling helpless and hungry, so on the 4th day, Victoria decides to set out to look for help. Ali bundles Victoria up and lets her go out and search. Within the next two days, Ally and Ivy try their best to stay warm and feed late on the 5th day Allie falls into a very deep sleep with Ivy. In this sleep, she dreams of her angel mother. Allie is on the brink of death at this point. Her mother tells her she can't stay even though Ali protests. When she wakes up, she is in a hospital room, finally warm and safe. The first person she sees is her father and listens to him apologize for how he's been ignoring her. Next person she sees is her boyfriend and her best friend whom she thought about the whole time.
Recommendations:
This book is for anyone who likes poetry or needs to do with a bit of grief in their life. I say this because of the realization alley had throughout her six days in the cold. Also to anybody who likes suspense thriller novels.
Personal Response:
I honestly thought this book was going to be a long shot. The book was poetry, and I don’t normally read poetry. This is the first poetry book I've read and I think it was a really good start to get me into the genre.
Summary:
The book Far from You by Lisa Schroeder is about a teen named Alice (Ali for short). It first starts out in a perspective to make you think Ali is very alone in the world from what has happened to her. First, her mother passes away, then to follow up to that her father remarries and has a baby named Ivy. with her stepmother. Ali thinks it’s basically the end of the world, and honestly, I can see why. Alice’s father, after her mother died, is trying to ignore her as much as he can, just because she reminds him of his wife too much. She hates the thought of her father with another woman different from her mother, so she tries to push her stepmother (Victoria or Vic) away for as long as she possibly can, until the days leading up to Thanksgiving. Victoria decides to visit her parents in California, then they stock up for the about 12-hour trip. They get to Victoria’s parents house, and only a few days in Alice’s father has to leave to go on a business trip to New York. Once her father leaves, Ali and Victoria leave as well since they heard there was a snow storm coming and they didn't want to get stuck in it. Nevertheless, they get caught in the storm. When Ali realized what happened she immediately wants to put the blame on someone. After a little less than a few hours, she realized that something needs to be done about their situation. Victoria & Ally try to use gift wrapping to flag someone down or get someone's attention. That didn't work. The next thing they do is find something for food, this including three to four bottles of water, one Dr. Pepper, two bags of chips, and one candy bar. This would be difficult to deal with because the baby needs formula and they only have a few bottles of water. Day two comes and they're already starting to lose hope. Two more days pass of feeling helpless and hungry, so on the 4th day, Victoria decides to set out to look for help. Ali bundles Victoria up and lets her go out and search. Within the next two days, Ally and Ivy try their best to stay warm and feed late on the 5th day Allie falls into a very deep sleep with Ivy. In this sleep, she dreams of her angel mother. Allie is on the brink of death at this point. Her mother tells her she can't stay even though Ali protests. When she wakes up, she is in a hospital room, finally warm and safe. The first person she sees is her father and listens to him apologize for how he's been ignoring her. Next person she sees is her boyfriend and her best friend whom she thought about the whole time.
Recommendations:
This book is for anyone who likes poetry or needs to do with a bit of grief in their life. I say this because of the realization alley had throughout her six days in the cold. Also to anybody who likes suspense thriller novels.
December 11, 2010
Inhalt
Alice hat ihre Mutter verloren. Ihr Vater ist darüber schneller hinweggekommen als ihr lieb ist, seine neue Freundin wohnt nicht nur bereits mit im Haus, sie bekommt auch schon ein Baby von ihm. Alice kann nichts mit ihrer Babyschwester anfangen und lenkt sich lieber mit dem Songschreiben und ihrem Freund Blaze ab.
Als sie gezwungen wird über die Feiertage mit ihrer Familie die Eltern ihrer Stiefmutter zu besuchen, könnte sie genervter kaum sein. Auf der Rückfahrt gerät sie nur mit ihrer Stiefmutter und ihrer kleinen Halbschwester in einen gefährlichen Schneesturm und plötzlich steht einer Aussprache nichts mehr im Weg. Dabei keimen ungeahnte Gefühle in allen Beteiligten auf während der Sturm um sie immer heftiger tobt und die Straßen immer unüberschauberer werden...
Rezension
Gleich zu Beginn fiel mir auf, dass Lisa Schroeder wohl unheimlich gern über die Verluste von verstorbenen Menschen schreibt. Mich würde interessieren, ob sie da persönliche Erfahrungen hat. Anders kann ich mir die Überreizung dieses Themas kaum vorstellen. In I Heart You, You Haunt Me verliert ein junges Mädchen ihren Freund und auch in Chasing Brooklyn (das ich noch nicht gelesen habe) scheint es darum zu gehen. In Far From You handelt es sich allerdings um einen Elternteil, der verstorben ist. Dank dieser Konstellation sind natürlich die Verlustgefühle ganz andere. Alice fällt es schwer über den Tod ihrer Mutter hinwegzukommen, das merkt man dem Buch an und ich konnte ihr Leid sehr gut nachvollziehen.
Die Autorin schildert in ihrem Roman eine komplizierte Familiensituation. Alice fühlt sich ignoriert und ausgestoßen von ihrem eigenen Vater. Ihrer Stiefmutter traut sie nicht über den Weg und hält sie für hinterhältig. Immer wieder wurden mir Beweise dafür geliefert, dass Alice sich das alles nicht wie ein trotziges Kind einbildet sondern, dass sie wirklich unfair behandelt wird. Das ehemalige Atelier ihrer Mutter wird beispielsweise ohne ihr auch nur Bescheid zu geben in das neue Zimmer ihrer Halbschwester umgewandelt. Später soll sie an einem mehrtägigen Besuch bei einer Familie teilnehmen, die sie nicht mal kennt und die nicht mit ihr blutsverwandt ist. Ich kann mir gut vorstellen, dass Alices Verhalten für einige egoistisch rüberkommt, ich konnte sie aber gut verstehen und war erbost und schockiert über die Dinge, die ihr angetan werden. Dieses Dramarama hat mir gut gefallen, weil ich mich dadurch sofort mit der Protagonistin verbünden wollte und weil ich mich theoretisch gern über so etwas aufrege.
Wie Lisa Schroeders andere Romane ist auch Far From You in Versform geschrieben. Meiner Meinung nach ziemlich unnötig, da die Autorin das Potential einer solchen Schreibform einfach nicht ausnutzt. Ab und zu werden zwar ein paar Worte umgestaltet (die Buchstaben von „snowflakes“ sind z.B. wild verteilt, um ein Schneetreiben zu verbildlichen) oder Absätze sinnvoll genutzt, aber insgesamt sind Lisas Verse doch nur knappe Sätze mit vielen Absätzen. Zu Beginn hat mich die Versform gestört, weil sich die kurzen Sätze dadurch viel zu abgehackt gelesen haben. Ich habe mich aber schnell daran gewöhnt, einfach hintereinander wegzulesen. Der Lesefluss hat so wieder gestimmt, aber der Sinn der Verse ging komplett verloren.
Also liebe Lisa Schroeder, ich würde dir gern Hausaufgaben aufgeben: entweder, du studierst eingiebig ein paar von Ellen Hopkins’ Romanen – die Frau weiß nämlich wie man in Versform schreibt – oder du gewöhnst dir einen Schreibstil a la Lisa McMann an – diese Autorin schreibt nämlich hintereinander weg, aber auch wunderbar kurz und prägnant.
Offene Fragen
Wird Lisa Schroeder auch mal einen nicht in Versen verfassten Roman veröffentlichen?
Fazit
Ein Buch, das man dank der Versform innerhalb eines Tages lesen kann, am besten wenn es draußen heftig schneit. Lisa Schroeder erzählt eine interessante Geschichte über den Verlust eines Elternteils und wie schwer es sein kann, wenn sich plötzlich eine völlig neue Familie bildet. Auf ihre Versform hätte sie hier getrost verzichten können. Die Sätze lesen sich zwar schnell, aber lyrisch kommen sie eher weniger rüber. Inhaltlich rutscht das Ganze am Ende ins Kitschige ab, aber eine lesenswerte Geschichte steckt trotzdem drin.
[3 STERNE]
Optische Gestaltung
Ich mag das Cover des Paperbacks unheimlich gern, es ist tausendmal schöner als das Blaue auf dem Hardcover. Ich glaube nicht, dass eine der Romanfiguren auf dem weißen Cover abgebildet sein soll, stattdessen finden sich viele Buchelemente wieder wie der Schnee oder die Flügel. Völlig passend ist es demnach nicht, aber mit dem toll gesetzten Titel trotzdem ein Hingucker.
Die Schneeflocken in der Innengestaltung fand ich überaus passend und hübsch, die Titel der Überschriften sind in der gleichen Schrift wie in I Heart You, You Haunt Me gesetzt - die Schrift, in der einige Buchstaben schier unmöglich zu lesen sind - Minuspunkt.
Trivia
Wer eine besondere Vorliebe für Alice im Wunderland hat, könnte dieses Buch ganz besonders mögen. Die Protagonistin ist nicht nur nach der berühmten Alice benannt, im Roman wird die Geschichte auch immer wieder aufgegriffen.
Bücher, in denen die Versform weitaus kunstvoller eingesetzt wird:
Samantha Schutz – I Don’t Want To Be Crazy
Ellen Hopkins – Crank
Alice hat ihre Mutter verloren. Ihr Vater ist darüber schneller hinweggekommen als ihr lieb ist, seine neue Freundin wohnt nicht nur bereits mit im Haus, sie bekommt auch schon ein Baby von ihm. Alice kann nichts mit ihrer Babyschwester anfangen und lenkt sich lieber mit dem Songschreiben und ihrem Freund Blaze ab.
Als sie gezwungen wird über die Feiertage mit ihrer Familie die Eltern ihrer Stiefmutter zu besuchen, könnte sie genervter kaum sein. Auf der Rückfahrt gerät sie nur mit ihrer Stiefmutter und ihrer kleinen Halbschwester in einen gefährlichen Schneesturm und plötzlich steht einer Aussprache nichts mehr im Weg. Dabei keimen ungeahnte Gefühle in allen Beteiligten auf während der Sturm um sie immer heftiger tobt und die Straßen immer unüberschauberer werden...
Rezension
Gleich zu Beginn fiel mir auf, dass Lisa Schroeder wohl unheimlich gern über die Verluste von verstorbenen Menschen schreibt. Mich würde interessieren, ob sie da persönliche Erfahrungen hat. Anders kann ich mir die Überreizung dieses Themas kaum vorstellen. In I Heart You, You Haunt Me verliert ein junges Mädchen ihren Freund und auch in Chasing Brooklyn (das ich noch nicht gelesen habe) scheint es darum zu gehen. In Far From You handelt es sich allerdings um einen Elternteil, der verstorben ist. Dank dieser Konstellation sind natürlich die Verlustgefühle ganz andere. Alice fällt es schwer über den Tod ihrer Mutter hinwegzukommen, das merkt man dem Buch an und ich konnte ihr Leid sehr gut nachvollziehen.
Die Autorin schildert in ihrem Roman eine komplizierte Familiensituation. Alice fühlt sich ignoriert und ausgestoßen von ihrem eigenen Vater. Ihrer Stiefmutter traut sie nicht über den Weg und hält sie für hinterhältig. Immer wieder wurden mir Beweise dafür geliefert, dass Alice sich das alles nicht wie ein trotziges Kind einbildet sondern, dass sie wirklich unfair behandelt wird. Das ehemalige Atelier ihrer Mutter wird beispielsweise ohne ihr auch nur Bescheid zu geben in das neue Zimmer ihrer Halbschwester umgewandelt. Später soll sie an einem mehrtägigen Besuch bei einer Familie teilnehmen, die sie nicht mal kennt und die nicht mit ihr blutsverwandt ist. Ich kann mir gut vorstellen, dass Alices Verhalten für einige egoistisch rüberkommt, ich konnte sie aber gut verstehen und war erbost und schockiert über die Dinge, die ihr angetan werden. Dieses Dramarama hat mir gut gefallen, weil ich mich dadurch sofort mit der Protagonistin verbünden wollte und weil ich mich theoretisch gern über so etwas aufrege.
Wie Lisa Schroeders andere Romane ist auch Far From You in Versform geschrieben. Meiner Meinung nach ziemlich unnötig, da die Autorin das Potential einer solchen Schreibform einfach nicht ausnutzt. Ab und zu werden zwar ein paar Worte umgestaltet (die Buchstaben von „snowflakes“ sind z.B. wild verteilt, um ein Schneetreiben zu verbildlichen) oder Absätze sinnvoll genutzt, aber insgesamt sind Lisas Verse doch nur knappe Sätze mit vielen Absätzen. Zu Beginn hat mich die Versform gestört, weil sich die kurzen Sätze dadurch viel zu abgehackt gelesen haben. Ich habe mich aber schnell daran gewöhnt, einfach hintereinander wegzulesen. Der Lesefluss hat so wieder gestimmt, aber der Sinn der Verse ging komplett verloren.
Also liebe Lisa Schroeder, ich würde dir gern Hausaufgaben aufgeben: entweder, du studierst eingiebig ein paar von Ellen Hopkins’ Romanen – die Frau weiß nämlich wie man in Versform schreibt – oder du gewöhnst dir einen Schreibstil a la Lisa McMann an – diese Autorin schreibt nämlich hintereinander weg, aber auch wunderbar kurz und prägnant.
Offene Fragen
Wird Lisa Schroeder auch mal einen nicht in Versen verfassten Roman veröffentlichen?
Fazit
Ein Buch, das man dank der Versform innerhalb eines Tages lesen kann, am besten wenn es draußen heftig schneit. Lisa Schroeder erzählt eine interessante Geschichte über den Verlust eines Elternteils und wie schwer es sein kann, wenn sich plötzlich eine völlig neue Familie bildet. Auf ihre Versform hätte sie hier getrost verzichten können. Die Sätze lesen sich zwar schnell, aber lyrisch kommen sie eher weniger rüber. Inhaltlich rutscht das Ganze am Ende ins Kitschige ab, aber eine lesenswerte Geschichte steckt trotzdem drin.
[3 STERNE]
Optische Gestaltung
Ich mag das Cover des Paperbacks unheimlich gern, es ist tausendmal schöner als das Blaue auf dem Hardcover. Ich glaube nicht, dass eine der Romanfiguren auf dem weißen Cover abgebildet sein soll, stattdessen finden sich viele Buchelemente wieder wie der Schnee oder die Flügel. Völlig passend ist es demnach nicht, aber mit dem toll gesetzten Titel trotzdem ein Hingucker.
Die Schneeflocken in der Innengestaltung fand ich überaus passend und hübsch, die Titel der Überschriften sind in der gleichen Schrift wie in I Heart You, You Haunt Me gesetzt - die Schrift, in der einige Buchstaben schier unmöglich zu lesen sind - Minuspunkt.
Trivia
Wer eine besondere Vorliebe für Alice im Wunderland hat, könnte dieses Buch ganz besonders mögen. Die Protagonistin ist nicht nur nach der berühmten Alice benannt, im Roman wird die Geschichte auch immer wieder aufgegriffen.
Bücher, in denen die Versform weitaus kunstvoller eingesetzt wird:
Samantha Schutz – I Don’t Want To Be Crazy
Ellen Hopkins – Crank
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