Grab a copy of We Were Liars by E. Lockhart and
start reading as soon as possible. Here’s a link to
the first few chapters as well as some “teasers” for other titles from RandomHouseTeens.
I had waited to pick up this book in part because I was
thinking “who wants to read about spoiled rich kids?” That was a mistake. The beautiful Sinclair family - stereotypically
blonde, athletic and rich enough to have a private island for a summer getaway
- have plenty of issues which will grab students’ attention as they did mine. Beyond
the high praise and starred reviews, it is unfair to characterize this novel: part
mystery, part romance, part therapy, part family tragedy. John Green calls it “utterly unforgettable.”
National Book Award finalist and Printz Award honoree E.
Lockhart delivers a very quick read which you will race through and then go
back and re-read, savoring the story and its accompanying fairy tales of greed
and secrets. Grandfather, three
daughters, many cousins, including the Liars: Cadence, Gat, Johnny and Mirren.
These four teens have developed a strong friendship over their years on the
island; it’s their aversion to the shallow bickering born of privilege that
leads to a horrific act of defiance. Yes, this book feels unique and yet relatable. I can’t wait to book talk it – though if
asked how it ends, I will have to lie.
