In a Heartbeat

Reader: Sabrina K
Age: 16
Title: In a Heartbeat
Author: Loretta Ellsworth
Publisher: Walker & Company
Pub Date: Feb 2010
Galley: Yes
Nominate for Teen’s Top 10: No
Recommend: Yes
Convince us to read the book: This book makes you realize that you need to spend every moment like it's your last and to always try to go for your dreams. It was very touching and really opened my eyes on heart transplant surgery.
Compelling Aspect of the Book: The most compelling aspect of the book was after Amelia had the heart transplant surgery and her transformation both physically and emotionally. At first, the whole concept of having similar characteristics as the heart donor sounded a bit cheesy but after a while it made more sense, and really made the book compelling and unique.
Comments: The beginning and end of the book were very strong, but when Eagan was waiting in the fog, it was very annoying. The memories were good, but the fact that 3/4 of the book she was in fog trying to find a way out was boring. I loved how you added Mikki, I thought it was a nice little final touch—and I also thought the ending was superb!
Did the cover tempt you and/or reflect the contents of the book: The cover tempted me with the heartbeat scanner on the cover and the girl making a heart sign. It reflected the contents, because Amelia is receiving a heart transplant.
Age Range: 14-17
Quality: 4Q Better than most
Popularity: 4P Broad general teen appeal