Goodreads Synopsis:
Missouri, 1849: Samantha
dreams of moving back to New York to be a professional musician—not an easy
thing if you’re a girl, and harder still if you’re Chinese. But a tragic
accident dashes any hopes of fulfilling her dream, and instead, leaves her
fearing for her life. With the help of a runaway slave named Annamae, Samantha
flees town for the unknown frontier. But life on the Oregon Trail is unsafe for
two girls, so they disguise themselves as Sammy and Andy, two boys headed for
the California gold rush. Sammy and Andy forge a powerful bond as they
each search for a link to their past, and struggle to avoid any unwanted
attention. But when they cross paths with a band of cowboys, the light-hearted
troupe turn out to be unexpected allies. With the law closing in on them and
new setbacks coming each day, the girls quickly learn that there are not many
places to hide on the open trail.
This beautifully written debut is an exciting adventure and heart-wrenching survival tale. But above all else, it’s a story about perseverance and trust that will restore your faith in the power of friendship
This beautifully written debut is an exciting adventure and heart-wrenching survival tale. But above all else, it’s a story about perseverance and trust that will restore your faith in the power of friendship
Here's what I think:
Guys. This. Book. IS. Awesome! It's just a fantastic blend of friendship, surviving through hardships, amazing self-discovery and loads of fun. Plus it's something new! It's historical fiction about that period in America where they ventured in the Oregan Trail in search of gold. So, it's great to understand it.
So, first things first, the friendship of Sammy and Andy. They are these two girls bound together by circumstances. This unlikely duo, a Chinese girl and an African-American girl, really struggled to understand each other despite having to stick together to avoid suspicion. But after this journey, the whispering, the panicking, the encouragements, the constant reminders and signalling to act like tough boys, they really bonded. These two personalities of one stubborn, but soft and the other tougher, but hold so much pain, really complement each other. They are yin and yang and this unlikely friendship really blooms into sisterhood. The great portrayal of friendship really touches me and I see a whole lot more meaning in this bond.
Next thing, the three cowboys added create a more diverse mix, with really contrasting and amusing personalities. Two Americans and Mexicans who look and act tough but they are actually great and understanding companions. They are funny and a whole lot of hot. Although they are suspicious of the two, they never push it. They are kind and gentle and fierce. Oh protectors of my heart!
Although it's not the main highlight but I actually like the romance, the palpable tension. You can see them feeling something more than friendship but denying it. So, it's actually very funny to see them pining and staring and diverting their glances. However, they suit each other so well so it's kind of frustrating when they never realize it. But its slow build-up is all worth it. SWOON.
The whole plot itself is very, very engaging. Seeing as I've never read books about the Oregan Trail, the Wild West intrigues me. The whole cowboy act, herding of cattle, throwing lassos, shooting game is described very clearly it's like I'm transported right there. The story itself is very believable and it captures many themes. Delivered with humor, there are times when I just laughed and smiled reading their antics. So, now I'm seriously going to read more of her books.
You see, with the mix of races and culture, this highlights very interesting insight on each of them. I like the fact that the author throw in some really good knowledge on Chinese Zodiac with American Christian beliefs as the backdrop. This creates a very interesting read as they try to understand each other. I really could not put my book down. Finished this book in three days and they are worth it. (Sorry, not sorry Os)
This book is excellent and great if you are looking for a light read and tons of amusement. It's pure awesomeness!
So, I guess the reason why I feel the urge to post this review is because it really highlights friendship. Yesterday was actually my last official school day in SC since I am off on study leave for the next two weeks. You know, I actually do not feel melancholic or whatsoever. But after reading my schoolmates' numerous post on Instagram about them being glad to have found great friends in SC and reading this book, it really struck me that friendships do last. Friends are the ones who make your day a little brighter. They make your steps a little lighter. And they make you laugh a little louder. So, although I do not have that many friends in this school. Those who have touched me really make a difference in my life. So, we really should cherish our friendships and not take them for granted. Because like Sammy and Andy, their unlikely friendship will certainly last forever.
Bye guys! And good luck for those taking Os.
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| 4PR! (plus Ms. Lim) |
