cover image The Lighter Side of Life and Death

The Lighter Side of Life and Death

C.K. Kelly Martin, Random, $16.99 (240p) ISBN 978-0-375-84588-8

Sixteen-year-old Mason has had a crush on Kat since she moved to town, so when they end up having sex after Mason's cast party for the school play (the first time for both of them), Mason is thrilled. But Kat becomes distant and instead of dealing with his pain, Mason pursues Colette, a 23-year-old family friend. Details of their secret affair are graphic but realistic, with Mason soon wanting an emotional connection Colette does not. Adding to tension at school is Mason's best friend Jamie, who also likes Kat, and Mason's new stepfamily (his father recently remarried), particularly belligerent 13-year-old Brianna. The family scenes are solid, with hostility between Mason and Brianna bubbling to a climax after Brianna spots Mason getting out of Colette's car, though the fallout from the affair is surprisingly minor. Still, Martin gives Mason a relatable voice ("I've never stalked anyone before; how do people do this?") and offers a refreshingly sincere perspective on early relationships. Ages 14–up. (May)