Normal by Danielle Pearl ****
"A year ago, Aurora "Rory" Pine was just a normal teenage girl. But this isn't a year ago. Now starting at a new high school, in the middle of senior year, in a new town, in a new state, Rory is broken, and suffering from a debilitating anxiety disorder, wrought with precarious triggers. She moves across the country to escape the source of her troubles. Her plan is anonymity, but that's easier said than achieved for the new girl having a panic episode outside of calculus. The worst part? There's a witness - and a gorgeous one at that."
What a roller coast ride this book is. I had to take a step back and try to stop judging the main character, Rory because while I felt for her I could not relate (thankfully) to what she was going thru. As the story evolved I was able understand Rory's behavior better. The story plays back and forth between today and what happened a year ago. And while some of it is predictable there still enough mystery to hold you and keep you guessing. The book ends on a cliffhanger but book two is out so you don't have to wait months for it. Overall it is a very good read and there are quite a few lessons in there for young girls, mainly 'do not do what Rory did. Do not allow that to happen to you.' Speak up!
