Hold Still

Hold Still
By Nina LaCour
Dutton, 2009. 229 pgs. Young Adult

Prior to the beginning of the book, Caitlin's best friend Ingrid has committed suicide, leaving Caitlin lost, hurt, and confused. When she finds Ingrid's last journal, chronicling the ups and downs that Ingrid experienced, Caitlin has to work through her own emotions. At school, she finds herself fighting against her photography teacher, a former mentor to her and Ingrid. She also fights both for and against a friendship with new girl Dylan as well as a relationship with Taylor, the popular guy who has been hanging around her.

Nina LaCour's first novel is an insightful novel, capturing the nuances of hurt and hope battling each other in the wake of tragedy. Caitlin's struggle to move on with her life while still holding onto her deceased friend will resonate with readers who have lost someone. Caitlin's supportive parents and her distant photography teacher add to the depth of the characterization, showing the many different sides of grief. With just the right amount of romance to top this off, I vote LaCour's debut a smashing success.

AE