I knew nothing about this book when I started it, and I figured that it would be a typical young adult novel. And indeed, it was. It was one of those books that has a fairly simple message, and it is told in a straightforward style.I can't say I have any major complaints with this novel. The characters seemed to make sense--Rae was definitely likable enough. I think many teens would be able to identify with her situation. I could have done with less profanity at times, but I cannot say it was truly rampant as it has been with some novels I have read. The message is positive, and I would say that most teens would find this book much more exciting than I did. It did seem that everything worked out too well, so I cannot say this is a realistic book in most instances. It is typical, but the writing style is easy to read. Overall, it receives a 3-star rating from me. Life on Hold is the story of Rae, a cool sophomore in high school who's family never stays anywhere for more than a year because of her mother, Gina. Gina finds moving an adventure but Rae craves stability. It's also the story of Allison, a new girl at Rae's school that Rae has to show around and help assimilate. Allison has gone through a hard time and the principal is depending on Rae to make sure everything works out for her.Rae's a pretty normal girl. She moves around a lot but that way she learns to quickly make friends. She loves her mother Gina but she wishes her mother would stop moving around. She gets along with most people and is all around a good, normal kid. I can easily imagine Rae as a teenager at my school.One of the most amazing things about Life on Hold was that somehow I ended up feeling everything Rae felt. When she was annoyed, I was too. When she was happy, I was happy. When she loved and hated something I completely agreed with her. It was very easy to be pulled into her life.I loved that this story was readable. Once starting I was completely immersed in the story and Rae's situation. Karen's writing is easy to read and her world is complicated but light. Rae's story felt real but also entertaining enough to read. My one problem with Life on Hold was that sometimes I didn't feel much for the other characters, Allison for example in most of the book. (The end made me think otherwise.) I felt disconnected and that could be a personal problem but it prevented me from loving the story. Overall, a nice real read. Life on Hold teaches you the importance of small, little actions and the impact they can make on someone's life. I liked it so I'm giving it 3 stars,***
What do You think about Life On Hold (2009)?
I liked the gutsy teenaged main character in this story, but the writing was a little weak.
—Renee
I loved it! I think it's a great read especially for teens.
—Joseph
