The Body Finder

The Body Finder
By Kimberly Derting
Harper, 2010. 329 pages. Young Adult Fiction

Violet, a junior in high school, has the inexplicable ability to sense the location of bodies of people who have been violently murdered. They call to her in an almost musical manner – not letting her rest until they are properly buried. Only Violet’s parents, best friend Jay, and Uncle Stephen (the local police chief) know her secret. When a serial killer begins targeting young girls in Violet’s hometown she feels obligated to help track the murderer. Because of Violet's connection with the police she is allowed on location in a man hunt and believes she has successfully targeted the suspect. The author builds tension by alternating chapters and points of view between Violet and the killer. Interspersed with mystery and danger in this novel is first love. Violet and Jay have been best friends since third grade. Now seemingly perfect Jay has grown up and other girls are taking an intense interest in him. Violet doesn't want to acknowledge what her conflicted and jealous feelings about this mean.

I liked the unique twist of Violet’s paranormal abilities, and the mystery of knowing the killer was hiding in plain sight. The contrast of the every day teen matters of homecoming dances and homework is nicely contrasted with the cold, distorted world of a serial killer. Although sixteen year old Violet seemed a complete character, her parents, and Jay were less complex. I particularly didn't like the excited seal of approval, along with closed bedroom door privileges, Violet's parents bestowed upon the new boyfriend relationship. This along with the cliche ending changed my feelings for the novel from enjoyment to exasperation.

ALC