Teen Fiction

Cuts Like a Knife

Name: Cuts Like a Knife
Author: Darlene Ryan
ISBN: 9781459801196

by Darlene Ryan

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Overview

Daniel has been crazy about Mac from the moment she transferred to his school. She's smart, funny, loyal and fiercely independent. The only problem is, when life gets too hard for Mac, she runs away. But she always comes back. Except now Mac's grandmother is dead, their house is about to be torn down and she's been humiliated in front of the entire school. When Daniel finds out Mac has been saying goodbye to her friends, he realizes she's planning on leaving for good. Getting more and more desperate as he searches the city, Daniel finds an unexpected and unlikely ally. But can he find Mac before he loses her forever?

About the Author, Darlene Ryan

Darlene Ryan has been writing for as long as she can remember, although she pursued post-secondary degrees in biology and education. Despite being endlessly fascinated by theories on the origin of the universe, she decided she wasn't cut out to be a scientist and returned to writing. Darlene was the 2006 poet recipient of the Dr. Marilyn Trenholme Counsell Early Childhood Literacy Award. As Sofie Kelly, she writes the best-selling Magical Cats mysteries. She lives with her family in Fredericton, New Brunswick. More information is available at www.darleneryan.com.

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Editorials

NJ Youth Services

"This Hi-Lo book had surprising depth for such a short read. The author covers all the danger signs that a suicidal person might exhibit. The main character is earnest and likable...Great for struggling or reluctant readers who want an intense, gritty story."

CM Magazine

"Deals realistically with the issues at hand, especially Mac's depression...The characters are likeable and easy to relate to, especially Daniel and his quirky and sweet mom. The interesting characters, fast pace of the novel, and compelling story are sure to keep both male and female readers interested."

Resource Links

"Another fast-paced, high-interest book from the Orca Soundings series...Told in the first person, Daniel's voice comes across as genuine...Teens will be readily able to relate to Daniel and his dilemma."

Tri State YA Book Review Committee

"Strong characters and a twisting plot make this novel one the reader will not be able to put down...Orca Soundings continues to create realistic, engrossing reads that appeal to reluctant readers, but can be enjoyed by any young adult."

Children's Literature - Caitlyn Payne

Mac has a secret. She is not telling her best friend Daniel what is going through her head, and she is not acting like the daredevil who loves her music that he is comfortable with. Daniel and Mac have always talked about everything, so when Mac stops confiding in Daniel, Daniel gets worried. He becomes even more worried when Mac starts give her prized possessions away, writes crazy poetry on her bedroom walls, and hides from her usual group of friends. When Daniel cannot get Mac to open up, he starts to worry time is running out—for both of them. It takes an act of courage, and help from an unexpected source, for Daniel to get through to Mac and find the strength to help her. This short novel packs a strong punch, and will resonate with teens. The awkward relationships, secrets, and even the horribly embarrassing things you tell your mother will hit home to give the reader a story s/he won't soon forget. Recommended for ages 16 and up. Reviewer: Caitlyn Payne