Teen Review: Chopsticks by Anthony & Corral
Just in case it wasn’t obvious enough from the cover, Chopsticks is a love story between piano prodigy, Glory Flemming, and the boy next door, Frank. The book grabs the reader by starting in the present with Gloria’s disappearance and then reverts back to the events leading up to her disappearance. Growing up, Gloria has more than a child could ever want, including loving parents and a musical talent that many would kill for. One tragic day, Glory’s mother dies, and Glory retreats into her music. Depressed and lonely, Glory is immediately drawn to her new neighbor Frank. With every one of Frank’s mix CDs and their late-night IM conversations, Glory becomes more invested in their relationship and less in the sold-out shows she plays in Carnegie Hall and around the world. Eventually, the only song she is able to play is Chopsticks.
Personally, I loved this book and would recommend it to anybody… or any girl that is (maybe a few boys). The use of pictures to tell the story is what sets this book apart and is probably the main reason why this book really stuck with me. the pictures are used effectively and do an excellent job of developing the plot and the characters. LThey also offer a unique perspective, a surprising does of emotion and mystery, with lots of room for interpretation. A phrase from the trailer of the book that aptly summarizes it is: “Is Chopsticks a dream or a nightmare? I’d say a little of both, intriguingly so.” So, do you agree? Read the book and decide for yourself. Ages 13 and up.
Anvita
