Teen Reviews presents book reviews and recommendations from teens in Mesa County. Don’t be surprised if you can’t find some of the books mentioned in these posts at the library or in stores: teens who attend Teen Book Club on Wednesdays at 4:00 at the Central Library have access to books before they are officially published.
Keplinger, Kody. That’s Not What Happened.
That’s Not What Happened is an amazing book about Leanne Bauer and 5 other survivors of the Virgil County High shooting. Five of the six survivors still go to Virgil County high, and are graduating soon. One survivor though, Kellie R. Gaynor, was practically chased out of town with the rest of her family. Sarah McHale is the town hero. She was recognized all over the world for her dedication and bravery when she stood up to the shooter while defending her faith. Except that didn’t actually happen did it? Leanne Bauer tries to reconnect with Kellie while they all write letters telling the world what they personally experienced during the shooting. This book can get really deep really fast. I know I cant be the only to cry during one of the victim’s, a blind kid named Denny, letter. This book really opens your eyes and makes you realize that your never actually safe. Not even in school. I love how the story is put into different perspectives through the letters. I hope whoever reads this sits down and reads this book.
Rating: 5
-Shy, Grade 7
Rating System:
5: Hard to imagine a better book
4: Better than most
3: Readable
2: Needs work
1: How did it ever get published?