Brown, J. (2014). Torn away. New York: Little, Brown and Company.
Jersey is a 16 year old junior in high school. When she was 10, her mom married Ronnie and had a daughter named Marin. On an ordinary day, Marin wanted to teach Jersey the East Coast Swing, but Jersey didn't have time for Marin. A tornado came rippling through the town, killing Jersey's mom and sister. All she had left was her stepdad, Ronnie, whom she did not have a connection to. He told her they were leaving. All she could gather was a porcelain kitten, which she received every year on her birthday with no return address, and Marin's purse. Ronnie took Jersey to her real dad's parents, but they did not treat her well so she ran away. She called her friend, who called Ronnie to come pick her up. Then, Ronnie took her to her mom's parents, whom she had never met. While there, she was able to build relationships with her grandma and grandpa. She even learned that the porcelain kitten had come from them every year, as a reminder that they loved their only grandchild. Jersey confided in them that she lost everything and that she regretted not giving Marin more of her time. One day grandma surprised her by teaching her the East Coast Swing, just as Marin had tried. Jersey learned that the definition of "everything" could be changed and new relationships could be built.
A suspense filled novel that is sure to catch a teenagers attention. Readers will have a difficult time putting this book down without finishing it. It is an easy to read realistic fiction novel. The author shows readers that one can overcome grief and tragedy.
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