Ramsey’s Book Nook

Ramsey is a senior at Duxbury High School where she is a member of the varsity girls ski team and a captain of the varsity girls crew team. She also participates in various clubs and competitive dance year-round. Her favorite subjects in school are math and English and she plans on majoring in business in college. Ramsey enjoys traveling outside of  school and hopes to study abroad in college. She also loves spending time on the water and works as a sailing instructor during the summer at the Duxbury Bay Maritime School. 

Book Reviews

After reading Gripped Part One, by Stacy A. Padula, I would highly recommend this book to audiences of all ages. The book begins to tell the story of how the opioid epidemic spreads through a small Massachusetts town. Hometown hero, Taylor Dunkin, was an NFL bound football star when he tragically got injured and became addicted to his pain killers. This led him down the dark and dangerous path to drug abuse and dealing, which became consequential for not only himself but his friends back home who he was supplying drugs to. 

The book travels back in time to when the other younger characters first began experimenting with drugs and alcohol, and how Taylor’s addiction worsened. Each of the characters’ own adversities and complicated relationships take them down different paths throughout middle school and high school. The book serves as a cautionary tale to young adult readers who are faced with making decisions around drugs and alcohol, while also introducing characters who struggle with relatable problems from friend drama to mental health issues. Anyone from teenagers to parents would benefit from reading this book, and become hooked by the intertwining stories of each character. 

Gripped Part Two is an excellent follow to part one, as it continues to tell the story of how substance abuse impacts the lives of Taylor Dunkin and his family and friends in Montgomery, MA. This book dives deeper into different character’s relationships with drugs and each other in the past as they head towards the present day. Different characters’ experiences serve as a warning to teenagers and parents of how consequential drugs can be, even if they seem harmless. Insightful information about each character’s past is revealed in an engaging, intertwining story. 

I would recommend Gripped Part two: Blindsided, to all middle and high school age students, teachers, and parents to learn the horrors of substance abuse. The book transports readers to social settings where teenagers are experimenting with drugs for fun, to relax, or even for mental health purposes. This series encourages adolescents to make thoughtful decisions as they enter the next chapter of their life.

“Gripped Part 3: The Fallout,” by Stacy A. Padula is a captivating and engaging continuation of the Gripped series that is difficult to put down. As each book does, Gripped Part 3 deeply touches upon the dangers of drug use for teenagers and teaches readers about the risks that come with it through each character’s unique storyline. It is beneficial for teenagers to read this book as it shines a light on the various reasons why young people begin experimenting with drugs. 

As the series continues, we dig deeper into each character’s past and present relationships while new secrets are revealed. Taylor’s predicament with the police, Chris’s path to staying sober, and Cathy and Chantal’s tumultuous relationship continue to unfold. I would highly recommend reading Gripped Part 3 to anyone looking for an intriguing read that also highlights the dangers of drug and alcohol use.

Gripped Part 4 is an excellent example of the dangers of drug abuse for teenagers, as it demonstrates how what seems like harmless fun can result in life threatening issues. Readers see the extreme danger that drugs can cause when used irresponsibly, but also witness how they can ruin relationships and trust between friends and family. The intertwining stories between Taylor and the police, Cathy and Jason, and their friends and family all illustrate various examples of the negative impacts substance abuse can have on young people.

I would recommend this series to both teenagers and parents of teenagars, as it is a great read that will keep you captivated and on your toes, but also has an extremely important message that can help save middle school, high school, and even college students from making a drastic mistake with substance abuse.

Gripped 5 is a thrilling page-turner that will leave readers at the edge of their seats. The book continues to follow Taylor as his storyline with the FBI unfolds over the course of one tumultuous night. Luke and his friends spend a night out in Boston and run into Taylor. What was supposed to be a fun night with friends takes a turn when unexpected events occur. Through flashbacks to years prior, readers learn about the night that first led to Taylor’s downfall. Additionally, Cathy and Chantal’s relationship unfolds more when the two sisters finally connect with each other again. 

The book sends an important message to teenagers of all ages about the consequences of substance abuse not only in high school, but farther down the line into their adult lives. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for an exciting addition to the series that also serves as a warning for the dangers of getting involved with drugs and alcohol at a young age. This is a great read for teenagers, parents, and anyone interested in an engaging read!

“The Right Person,” by Stacy Padula, follows a group of high school students beginning their freshman year as they face challenges with friends, relationships, and difficult decisions. High school can bring unexpected situations such as drug and alcohol use, peer pressure, and other influences that can lead teenagers down the wrong path. Chris, a main character in the book, faces the issue of overcoming addiction and trying to set himself on a better path for his academic and athletic future. Courtney, another prominent character in the book, is faced with peer pressure to stray from her religious and moral values as she strives for popularity at a new school with new friends. 

These challenges are extremely relevant in the lives of teenagers today. This series offers an outlet to teenagers with relatable characters that they may align with and learn from as they navigate their own lives. The book encourages teenagers to stay true to themselves and make smart, responsible decisions despite any peer pressure or negative influences they may be facing throughout high school. The positive lessons and compelling storylines make “The Right Person” a very worthwhile read!

Interviews with Ramsey

June 2024: Gripped Part 1

1. Who would you recommend Gripped Part 1 to and why?

As a young adult, I would recommend Gripped Part 1 to others my age. While reading, I felt that the characters accurately portrayed the difficult moral decisions that come with growing up, as well as how easy it can be to fall down the wrong path. I believe that young adults would benefit from reading this book as it allows them to reflect on their own choices and think about how to make smart decisions as teenagers. 

2. How do you as a young adult relate to the story?

I found myself relating most to Cathy’s character because, throughout the plotline, she slowly came out of her shell and gained a newfound confidence. Many young adults could find her character relatable because it can be difficult to learn to feel comfortable in your own shoes during early adolescence and gain the confidence to meet new people while staying true to yourself. Young adults in middle school and high school often feel a heightened sense of self-awareness, especially when navigating new friendships and outside influences. This makes Cathy’s character relatable because readers watch her become confident in herself. 

3. What did you like best about the story?

I found the complicated character relationships extremely intriguing. This is what initially hooked my interest after starting the book because I enjoyed learning how each of the relationships between characters contributes to the plot of the story. This book in the series provides background knowledge that I assume lays the groundwork for the preceding storylines. The way the book was written allowed for an easy understanding of the series of events that took place in the main characters’ pasts as well. 

4. What message does this book send to readers?

I believe that this book conveys a message of caution. It analyzes how young characters so easily fell down dangerous paths which were harmless for some, but extremely consequential for others. It sends young readers the message that growing older opens the doors to more freedom, but also the responsibility of making smart decisions. Taylor’s story shows how even a harmless prank can destroy such a bright future, but even more perilous is experimenting with drugs as it can destroy one’s life. Readers can learn from this book to be wary of their decisions and recognize the responsibility they need to take for their actions to ensure they aren’t hurting themselves down the line. 

5. There are a few different storylines running through Gripped Part 1 because it is setting up the rest of the series. What storyline do you find the most interesting and why? (For example: Taylor and the police, Cathy and Jason, Cathy and Chantal, etc.)

The storyline of Taylor and the police sparked my interest the most because of the uncertainty and stress of the situation. The police have to walk on eggshells in order to catch whoever is supplying Taylor with drugs because one wrong move could cost the safety of not only Taylor, but his family and friends as well. Because Taylor is dealing with a lot of the drugs that are running rampant through his hometown, this part of the plot impacts every character in the book. I found myself immediately hooked by this storyline and wanting to dive into the second book to uncover the rest. 

6. Gripped Part 1 sets up the rest of the series but leaves a lot of things “hanging.” What are you most curious to uncover by reading Gripped Part 2?

I am most curious to uncover how Cathy ends up opening the door to drugs and alcohol  and falling down such a dangerous path. It is clear that she begins to develop mental health problems due to her skewed relationship with her sister, but the book leaves readers wanting to understand how she comes to turn away from her morals and make more dangerous decisions. 

7. About the characters…
   1. Who do you feel bad for and why?

I feel sympathy for Marc who has to carry the weight of Taylor’s addiction before his parents even realize the extent of Taylor’s problem. He saw Taylor as a role model for his entire life, but then had to watch him become a completely different person because of his addiction. Marc not only loses the person he looked up to most, but also has to deal with Taylor’s impact on his friends as well due to him dealing drugs. 

2. Who frustrates you and why? 

I found myself feeling frustrated with Job because of how he handled his relationship with Chantal. He was in a difficult position because of how strongly Chantal felt about drinking, but instead of communicating with her he simply lied and isolated himself from her. He made a series of bad decisions that made his character frustrating to follow. 

3. Who do you most relate to and why?

I relate to Cathy the most because of the responsibility she feels to protect her sister’s feelings, while also trying to do what is best for her. I feel that many young adults can relate to the struggle of trying to protect the people they are close to even when it places them in a difficult position. I also found Cathy relatable because she is a problem solver. She feels the need to help others resolve their personal problems and puts it on herself to do so. 

4. Who do you like and why? 

I liked reading about Marc’s character because he is consistently a positive influence on his friends and family, especially those younger than him. He also takes on the responsibility of ensuring that Taylor gets clean and brings the issue to his parents’ attention, which is no light task. 

5. Who do you dislike and why?

While I think that Jordan is a good person, I did not like how casual he was about providing drugs and alcohol to middle-school age children. It is one thing to be okay with his younger cousin trying alcohol, but providing it for a thirteen year old is very irresponsible, especially knowing how dangerous alcohol and drugs can be for their futures.

July 2024: Gripped Part 2

1. The drug use and sexual content in this book will surely get it banned from schools, but the topics are too relevant in teenage culture to be ignored. Why do you think this book should be read by kids in middle school and high school?

I believe that this book should be read by kids in middle school and high school because as drug and alcohol use begins to become relevant in adolescents’ lives, it is vital that they understand the dangers behind experimenting with these substances. It is typical for middle and high school age kids to come in contact with drugs and alcohol, but they need to be aware of the consequences. The characters in Gripped Part Two, while experimenting with drugs, also discuss the side effects and dangers of different drugs, which allows the book to serve an educational purpose. Although a book with this content may be banned in schools, it is equally as important for teenagers to read as any school curriculum. 

2. What can kids learn from reading this book?

Because the characters in Gripped actually discuss the specific consequences of drug use such as mixing certain drugs and which are addictive versus which are not, kids can learn these important facts through reading it. For example, readers watch Cathy become hooked on Xanax to treat her anxiety and learn the negative consequences it has on her due to Xanax being an addictive substance that also alters her personality. However, we also learn that Cathy has researched Xanax herself and isn’t taking it blindly. This can teach kids firstly, not to take unprescribed medication, and secondly, to always know what it is you are putting in your body or witnessing others take. 

3. How has your opinion of Taylor changed from the beginning of the series until the end of book 2?

Taylor has shown a lot of self growth and improvement between book one and book two. He is clean and sober, and working on turning his football career and education around. This was a relief to see and put Taylor in a much more positive light. However, he still offers drugs to Luke and Cathy when they come to see him in Boston. Although Taylor is sober himself, he is still contributing to the rampant drug epidemic in his hometown that directly impacts his close friends and family members. It is clear that Taylor has many broken relationships he needs to fix and a lot of character development left to unfold later in the series. 

4. How has your opinion of Chris changed since the beginning of the series?

Chris was always described as the “fun” friend or “life of the party” with an easygoing and optimistic personality. In Gripped Part Two, he takes a turn for the worse when he has a near death experience caused by mixing alcohol with multiple other drugs. He then realizes the extent to which drugs have impacted his life and the people around him. He makes the respectable choice to step back from the negative influences in his life and commits to trying to stay sober. I feel sympathy for Chris as a character because his parents have never shown him love or support, and he doesn’t have many people to turn to or look up to during such a difficult time. This makes Chris even more admirable because he still chooses to take the high road and do what is best for himself and the people around him. 

5. After reading books 1 & 2, are you rooting for Cathy to end up with Jason or Marc?

I think that Cathy and Jason are the better fit for each other because although their relationship went downhill when they both started experimenting with drugs, they have taken time apart to work on themselves and clearly still care about each other deeply. Their personalities have always been aligned and before Cathy was hooked on anxiety medication, they did bring out the best in each other. However, Marc is also a very positive influence in Cathy’s life, especially when she is still clearly struggling with anxiety. It could benefit her to become closer with Marc. 

6. What are your honest thoughts on Chris and Lisa’s relationship?

It is very clear that Chris and Lisa care about each other deeply and make eachother extremely happy. However, for the time being, I think it was a very mature decision to spend time apart. Chris needed to work on himself and spend time with people who are good influences on him. Lisa definitely needed to surround herself with positive influences after the tragic loss of her father that she is grieving. However, I think that Chris and Lisa will come back into each other’s lives later in the series when they have both taken time to heal without one another. 

7. Who are your two favorite characters so far in the series and why?

My two favorite characters in the series are Chris and Cathy. I enjoy learning more about Chris because his character is very complex. He comes across as very happy and positive, but has grown up without the love of his parents. We also learn in book two that he is more mature than expected when he decides to break up with Lisa for her sake and take a step back from negative influences in his life to get sober. I really like Cathy as a character as well because she cares so deeply about her friends and family. Her mental health takes a turn for the worse in book two, but I think this makes her a very relatable character for teenagers who also struggle with social anxiety and feel pressure from their parents, friends, school, and other influences.

August 2024: Gripped Part 3

1. This book touches upon the use of Adderall, acid, marijuana, alcohol, and Xanax. For that reason, parents may not want their children to read the novel. However, the author feels there is much to be learned. What do you think tweens and teens could learn from reading Gripped Part 3 that would be beneficial for them?

While kids reading about harsh topics such as acid, marijuana, Xanax, and other drugs can seem daunting to some parents, it is beneficial to read books such as Gripped Part 3 because, in reality, teens and tweens are exposed to these substances. Reading Gripped Part 3 can open teenagers’ eyes to the dangers of drugs and alcohol and how they can impact relationships with family and friends. It is beneficial for them, as it can prepare them for real-life situations where they will inevitably encounter drugs and alcohol, while also reading an interesting and engaging book.  

2. Why could adults benefit from reading Gripped Part 3?

Adults who are unaware of what their children may be exposed to in middle school and high school would benefit from reading Gripped Part 3, as it would give them a better understanding of what teenagers can get their hands on even at a young age. When parents know what their kids may be doing or seeing their friends do, they can build a better relationship with their kids and form a mutual trust that prevents teenagers from unknowingly putting themselves in harm’s way. 

3. What storylines were most intriguing in Gripped Part 3? What kept you wanting to turn the page?

I felt that Cathy and Jason’s storyline was the most intriguing because, throughout Gripped Part 3, readers see how drugs have drastically changed both of their personalities. Out of all of the characters, Cathy and Jason have taken one of the bigger turns for the worse as a result of drug use. I am also intrigued by Cathy and Chantal’s storyline as more of their troubled history is brought to light. It is clear that they are coming closer to finally understanding what happened between them and may be able to reconcile. 

4. As drug use abounds in the series, some characters are trying their best to sober up, while others are getting deeper and deeper into substance abuse. How do you think readers can benefit from reading about Chris’s journey from the beginning of the series until now?

At the beginning of the series, Chris was the “life of the party,” very easygoing, and just wanted everyone to have fun. He has never had strong authority figures in his life and has been exposed to drugs and alcohol from a young age because of his older cousins. In book 2, we see Chris take a turn for the worse as he realizes how drugs have destroyed relationships in his life and he becomes determined to stay clean. I think readers can benefit from reading about Chris’s journey because he represents that teenagers can make mature decisions about their lives and stay away from drugs even when their peers are not. Chris has his ups and downs, but he consistently makes an effort to stay clean which can encourage readers to do the same in their own lives. 

5. At this point in the series, what character intrigues you the most and why?

I am increasingly intrigued by Courney’s character, as she was a relatively new character in Book 3, but readers learn a lot more about her personality throughout this book in the series. She was portrayed as very innocent and a positive influence on others, but towards the end of book 3, it is clear that some of her motivation to hang out with Chris and his friends stems from her desire for popularity. I am interested to see how her storyline unfolds in book 4. 

6. What does this book teach readers about why people begin using drugs?

I think that most people are under the assumption that teenagers begin using drugs as a result of peer pressure or stupid decisions, but this book shows that while that can be true for some, others begin using drugs for more personal reasons. Cathy had no desire to use drugs but felt that she had no other way of controlling her anxiety. Taylor thought he was just having a little fun in college, but became hooked due to his injury. The Gripped series shows how easy it is to slip down the wrong path with drug use even when it’s not your intention. 

7. Chris loves Jordan, but Marc hates Jordan. He has slowly been introduced to the reader in the first three books and will play a more significant role later in the series. At this point in the series, what are your honest thoughts on Jordan?

At this point, it is clear that Jordan had a phase of partying in high school, but has really turned it around in college and is committed to his football career and academics. He has become a valuable role model for Chris and is misunderstood by Marc who hasn’t seen how responsible Jordan has become. I am interested to learn the story behind Jordan and Michelle and who they are trying to protect.

September 2024: Gripped Part 4

1. Who would you recommend this book to and why?

I would recommend “Gripped Part 4” to teenagers, particularly high school students, for whom it is imperative to learn the dangers of drug abuse. I would also recommend that parents read this series to gain awareness of what their kids may be exposed to as they begin high school and learn how to best approach keeping their kids safe and educated. “Gripped Part 4” in particular highlights the idea that recovery is possible and teenagers are capable of making smart decisions regarding drugs. This can have a positive impact on teenagers who read the book, which is why I would strongly recommend it. 

2. Why do you feel the topics covered in the book are relevant for teenagers?

Whether it is middle school, high school, or even college, teenagers will at some point be exposed to drugs and alcohol, and it is important that they understand the risks of substance abuse. Additionally, the topics covered in this book such as family turmoil, friend drama, relationships, self esteem, and school tend to be the most relevant topics in the lives of adolescents. Teenagers can benefit from reading this book as they are learning important lessons while also feeling heard, as they can relate to the various other issues that the characters experience. 

3. Why should parents read this book?

It is critical that parents are aware of and understand the risks of substance abuse for teenagers, as well as the fact that it is likely their children will be exposed to these substances eventually. Parents should be able to understand the social settings and dynamics of their children’s lives, so that they can best approach having mature conversations about drugs and alcohol. While these topics may be sensitive or unsettling for parents to read regarding their teenagers, it is important that they are aware of the realities of  middle school and high school life. 

4. At this point in the story, what are you most curious to uncover in Gripped 5?
5. What did you like best about this book/what kept you wanting to turn the page?
6. What did you like about the writing style/setup of the story?

I enjoy reading books that have time jumps because it keeps readers on their toes and intrigued to keep learning more. As the series has evolved, more and more of the characters past has been revealed 

7. How has your opinion of the characters evolved overtime? Specify what you now think of the following people after reading Gripped 4:
   1. Luke: Luke cares a lot about his friends and his brothers, but he is causing widespread problems by buying drugs from Taylor and supplying them to younger kids. I don’t think he realizes the extent to which this is impacting the people around him. 
   2. Jordan: Throughout the series, Jordan had been characterized by Marc as irresponsible and untrustworthy. However after reading Gripped 4, his true character evolved significantly, demonstrating how he got his priorities straight in college and is focused on his schoolwork and football. He has become an unexpected role model for the younger characters and been given the credit he deserves. 
   3. Taylor: It is clear that Taylor is trying to turn his life around, but is stuck in an impossible situation with his boss and the police investigation. I think that he has good intentions and is willing to work hard to make a positive change for his future and his family. 
   4. Jason: In Gripped 4, Jason’s character took a turn for the worse. His experimentation with drugs led him to addiction and ruined his relationship with Cathy and with many of his friends. I have hope for Jason’s character and believe that he truly learned his lesson in this book. 
   5. Cathy: I like Cathy’s character, but this book caused her to take a turn for the worse as well. Her relationship fell apart as a result of her carelessness with drugs. Her intentions were only to calm her anxiety at first, but she became too carefree and lost herself in the process.

October 2024: Gripped Part 5

1. Who would you recommend this book to and why?

Compared to the earlier books in the series, I recommend this book not only to middle and high school students, but also to college-level students. This book touches more upon Taylor and Jordan’s college experiences, and I believe that it serves as a warning for the consequences of substance abuse beyond high school and into one’s adult life. That being said, I would again recommend this book to parents as well because part five of the series involves more parent perspectives and gives parents insight into the risks of drug abuse. 

2. Why do you feel the topics covered in the book are relevant for teenagers?

As teenagers grow through middle school, high school, and college experiences, they are exposed to drugs and alcohol and it is critical that they understand how to handle these inevitable experiences. Additionally, Gripped touches upon issues such as relationships, friendship, family, and responsibility, which are all relevant in the lives of teenagers. Reading this book may help teenagers struggling with these issues feel seen and heard. 

3. What 3 important messages does Gripped 5 send to readers?

First, Gripped 5 emphasizes the importance of forgiveness through Cathy and Chantal’s storyline and Taylor’s relationship with his family. The message that the book sends is that relationships with the people we love are more important than the issues we have. Secondly, it sends the message that decisions we make at a young age can have dire consequences down the road. Taylor’s poor decisions in college resulted in life-threatening problems for him and his family. While his story may be an extreme example, the message is that young readers need to make responsible, self-aware choices. Lastly, Gripped 5 sends the message that it is possible to turn your life around and try to change things for the better. Taylor fell down a dark path in college, but is trying to better his future and protect his family. Moreover, Jordan discovered his faith in college and is thriving as a dedicated student-athlete without drugs or alcohol in his life. 

4. What are you most curious to uncover in Gripped Part 6?

I am most curious to uncover what happens to Taylor and his family after Taylor was almost killed. I’m interested to figure out whether or not he can safely leave the drug business and what will happen to his family because of it. 

5. What did you like best about this book and who is your favorite character in the series at this point?

I like that this book focused more on Taylor’s story and was full of suspense as the plot thickened. My favorite character at this point is Jordan. We hadn’t seen much of Jordan’s character until books four and five, and he has turned out to be one of the most respectable characters in the series. I think that he is a role model for both his brothers and the younger characters as well. His character demonstrates how successful you can be when you commit to the things you care about and fulfill your life. 

6. What do you hope happens to:
   1. Taylor: I hope that Taylor is able to safely make it back to his family and leave the crime ring without any more harm being done. I hope he can turn his life around for the better. 
   2. Cathy & Chantal: After their conversation, I hope that Cathy and Chantal rebuild their relationship and make up for lost time together. I hope that Chantal can help Cathy work through her mental health in a healthier way without drug abuse. 
   3. Cathy & Jason: I hope that Cathy and Jason can help each other become themselves again, whether they rekindle their relationship or become friends. 
   4. Luke & Missy: I hope that Luke and Missy work through their mutual problems and make a choice about their relationship that is beneficial for both of them. 
7. How has your opinion of the characters evolved overtime? Specify what you now think of the following people after reading Gripped 5 vs. what your initial impression was:
   1. Taylor: Initially, I had little hope for Taylor getting clean, but he has really turned his life around and is trying to wipe drugs completely from his life. I have more respect for him now that he is putting his future and his family first. 
   2. Jordan: Jordan was given a bad reputation earlier in the series because of his relationship with Marc. However, I respect him as a character for being a role model and dedicating himself to his schoolwork, faith, and commitment to football. 
   3. Marc: My opinion of Marc has not changed a lot because I think he is still the same person, trying to look out for the people he cares about and keep everyone out of trouble. 
   4. Missy: After reading Gripped 5, I think that Missy is a good person, but lets drugs control her life more than she should. I think she needs to prioritize her friendships and relationship more than having a good time. 
   5. Luke: I like Luke as a character, but I think he needs to gain more self respect and work through his issues with Missy. 
   6. Laurelle: I think that Laurelle has a lot to work through with Pat before leaving for college and needs to gain some sort of closure.

February 2025: Montgomery Lake High #1

1. Who do you recommend this book to?

I recommend this book primarily to teenagers because I believe this is the target audience. The book touches on relevant topics in the lives of teenagers, as it follows characters who are just beginning their freshman year of high school and facing challenging new adjustments such as exposure to drugs and alcohol and changing social dynamics. Many characters struggle between peer pressure and staying true to their morals and faith. These are common and relatable issues for adolescents, especially when beginning a new chapter in their lives, such as high school. However, I would also recommend this book to parents, teachers, and counselors who want to get a closer look into the lives of teenagers and be better aware of what teenagers in their lives may be facing. 

2. What can be learned from Chris and Courtney’s story?

In my opinion, the most prominent lesson to be learned from Chris and Courtney is that sometimes it takes straying from your true values and morals to learn what is right, but you can always turn your life around and begin making better choices. Courtney was previously opposed to drugs, alcohol, and partying due to her religious beliefs, which helped Chris begin to overcome his addictions and strive to change. However, as she becomes closer to Chris’s friends, she begins to sacrifice her beliefs to fit in. After realizing her mistake, she decides to turn her life around too. This storyline demonstrates that teenagers are capable of overcoming peer pressure and leading better lives by staying true to themselves. 

3. What did you enjoy most about The Right Person?

After reading the Gripped series, I enjoyed getting a closer look into the lives of the younger characters such as Chris, Courtney, Cathy, and the others. Each character faces their own unique challenges throughout this first book in the series, and I look forward to learning more in the next book. 

4. What is one major theme you noticed running through the story?

While there are many prominent themes in “The Right Person,” I noticed the theme of peer pressure the most. On one hand, Chris tries to overcome peer pressure from his friends to party because he is trying to get clean. On the other hand, Courtney succumbs to peer pressure in her desire for popularity. The other main characters, such as Cathy and Alyssa, are seen pushing each other down to get to the top rather than being good friends. Peer pressure affects teenagers in many different ways, and this book effectively portrays the challenges of overcoming it, as well as the consequences of letting it get in your way. 

5. How do you, as a teenager, personally relate to this story?

As a senior in high school, I have witnessed the challenges of social drama, relationships, and facing new and unexpected situations as you get older. I think that teenagers can relate to the issues that independence brings when you are faced with making mature decisions as a young adult for the first time, particularly freshman year. Whether you are the same age as the characters in the book, younger, or older, it is beneficial to read about characters who may be going through experiences you are facing or have dealt with at some point in your life.