Reading Metrics
Description
Scarred and in pain after a car accident, Sierra turns away from God, especially after remembering how her boyfriend and best friend were involved in the crash, and plans her revenge while the woman sharing her hospital room urges her to forgive.
Quick Summary
Sierra's Story follows a teenage girl who wakes up in the hospital with scars from a car crash that killed her sense of trust, and she's furious at her boyfriend and best friend for being in the vehicle that caused the accident. The story takes a gritty, honest look at how anger can take over a teen's life, but it also shows a surprising ray of hope when a fellow patient a wise, older woman starts gently pushing Sierra to consider forgiveness instead of revenge. It's the kind of book that will resonate with anyone who's ever felt wronged and wondered if holding onto that anger is worth it, and it's especially good for readers who enjoy realistic, emotionally-charged YA that doesn't shy away from tough topics. The reading level is fairly accessible (AR 3.3), so even though the themes are aimed at high-schoolers, younger teens can handle it with a parent's guidance. Parents might appreciate the subtle, non-preachy way the story explores faith and forgiveness, though there are moments of graphic injury and raw emotion that might be intense for very sensitive kids. If you liked the emotional punch of The Fault in Our Stars or the hospital-room drama of Room, you'll find Sierra's journey similarly compelling.