Wednesday 10 February 2016

More of Me by Kathryn Evans

Six months had flown by. Six months since I'd fought my way out of Fifteen's body and taken over as Teva. Six months since Fifteen had been trapped at home and I'd been free. It didn't take a maths genius to work out what that meant. I had just six short months until a new Teva tried to fight her way out of me. Only I wasn't going to let that happen. 

Published by Usborne in February 2016

Cover by Rekha Garten 

Summary
Teva seems normal. But at home she hides an impossible secret: 11 other Tevas. Because once a year, Teva splits into two, leaving a younger version of herself stuck at the same age, forced to watch the new Teva taking over her life. But at 16, Teva’s had enough. She’s going to fight for her future - even if that means fighting herself.
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Reviewed by Vivienne Dacosta

I have to be honest and admit, Kathryn is a friend of mine. I'm not keen on reviewing books by friends but I love this book so much, I had to review it myself.  I knew about this book during the early drafts and my jaw actually dropped when Kathryn told me the idea behind it. I knew that there was no other book like it out in the YA world.  The concept behind this book is so unique, it's like pure gold. Imagine your body separating from itself, once every year and leaving a younger version behind that won't age - the idea blows my mind!

I've read three different versions of the book and each time it just gets better and better. 
The story is definitely sci fi, but the author has set it in the present day which gives it such a believable factor, adding in romance, a fast pace and comical interludes.  

I love Teva, I can't believe how strong a character she is. She desperately wants a future and will stop at nothing to get what she wants. You get caught up in her sense of urgency as she realises time is running out.  
I also have a soft spot for Fifteen and find it incredible how differently she stands out from Teva. She just wants to be with Ollie, the boy she loves and her anger and heartbreak at the situation really unfolds throughout the story.  All the different versions of Teva are easily identifiable from each other which really is an impressive writing skill. You recognise each distinctive age of growing up when they appear in the story. 

The ending is traumatic. So be prepared with a few tissues as you will definitely need them. 

I can't fault this debut at all. It really is quite outstanding. I wouldn't be surprised if this book is on a few award shortlists next year. Teens are going to love it and easily identify with the fears and pains of growing up.  I can't wait to see what Kathryn Evans writes next. I'm positive it will also be out of this world. 

1 comment:

  1. Not sure I'm allowed to comment in this but am going to anyway! Thank you Viv - you believe in this story from the beginning, to know you still love it at the end of this long long process means the world to me xxx

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