Clever, introverted Joan struggled to come to terms with her mother's death by plunging herself into a dark, colorless, emotionless world. At home, she played lacrosse with her older brother; the best therapy for two kids who had lost the solar power on which their lives had run. Away from home, she haunted the hallways of high school like an invisible ghost. Until one summer day when a golden boy moved in next door, which caused her humorous, awkward, often embarrassing inner conversations to tumble out to complicate and light her path back to living once more, out loud and in color. Reviews by ReadersWindmark5.0 out of 5 stars Great read for a High School Youth ReaderI loved how this innocent high school "love story" takes you from when the pair meet, through the senior year together, through the eyes of a girl who is grieving the loss of her Mom. Seen through her eyes and emotions, it is a great journey to take with her, to learn how others cope with tragedy at such a tender age. Great character formation. You feel like you know these kids. The LaCrosse games and jargon are an added bonus for kids who are considering which sports to rake up. I read it first, and highly recommend it to young girls entering, or already in, high school. I'm giving it to a sweet 13 year old girl for Christmas! MH5.0 out of 5 stars I highly recommend this book!This "young adult" book is a wonderful read for any age. Kris Abel-Helwig is a very talented writer whose characters are well-crafted and engaging. I highly recommend stepping into Joan's world and enjoying the experiences this book has to offer. Swan5.0 out of 5 stars A story that you won't forgetGreat story and I loved the healthy (and entertaining) relating in it so much I read it twice. There's nothing formulaic about it. Let's point Hollywood to this! It's so much better than the Ladybird movie which was nice but had no fresh aha moments like this writer so deftly crafted. FTBW is brilliant! Shelby parmenter5.0 out of 5 stars Must ReadI love this book. I was so intrigued I read it in one weekend. This book keeps you on your toes with all the witty banter. Also very informational on lacrosse. Haha. I'm waiting for the next installment of this series as I know it will be just as great as the first one! Westleigh5.0 out of 5 stars Great characters; great read!As a mother of teen readers, I sincerely appreciate well-written, young, female characters. While having to cope with stressful realities of high school life, Joan was blind-sided by tragedy, yet manages to be strong, intelligent, independent, and able to find her own path through it all. I found Joan to be a great example to young women, the characters to be distinct, realistic, and funny, and the story to be a welcome one! Glad to have read it - now, where's the next one?;-)One person found this helpful B. Suidikas5.0 out of 5 stars f2b&w is a fantastic read. It is relatablef2b&w is a fantastic read. It is relatable, honest, emotional, and fun in it's storyline and it's characters. As a cancer survivor I was captivated in reading about how it takes a toll on more than just the patients. Definitely a finish in one sitting kind of book, and great for any and all readers. Enjoy!One person found this helpful Jim H.5.0 out of 5 stars Smart, funnySmart, funny, riveting read, that once picked up cannot be put down. Loved Joan Jett, who stayed true to character throughout. I'd say, "hit me with your best shot," but you already did.2 people found this helpful
