Solitary: A Novel (The Solitary Tales)

Travis Thrasher
David C. Cook (2010)
ISBN 9781434764218
Reviewed by Leslie Granier for Reader Views (10/10)

 

High-school student Chris Buckley has been through some major changes in his life lately.  His parents have just divorced.  His mother has turned to alcohol to try to escape from her problems.  But the worst thing in Chris’ opinion is that he and his mom have moved from the bustling Chicago area to quiet Solitary, North Carolina, where she grew up years ago.  As Chris starts at his new school, he is lonely until he befriends three outcasts - Poe, Rachel, and Jocelyn.  He really likes Jocelyn but he cannot figure her out.  One day she wants to be close to him but the next she is cold towards him.  Chris wonders if it is typical teenage fickleness or something more.  Maybe it has something to do with the residents’ unwelcoming attitude toward outsiders and the unspoken secret they all seem to share.

“Solitary” is an addictive book that left me anticipating what would happen next.  The plot moves steadily until about two-thirds of the way through when things really intensify.  The author does an excellent job of engaging the reader’s attention but not revealing too much information too soon.  He is very descriptive of the unusual occurrences.  The story is told by Chris which makes it seem more realistic and it occurs in real time.  Religion does play a fairly substantial role in the story but it is not used as a tool to promote one faith over another.

The two main characters - Chris and Jocelyn - are very likable.  Chris’ loneliness and confusion are adeptly demonstrated.  But his tenacity really stands out as he keeps seeking the truth about the town even though he has been constantly warned not to interfere.  Jocelyn’s predicament is also well-documented.  She must decide whether to tell Chris the truth or to push him away to protect him.

“Solitary” is the first book in The Solitary Tales series.  It is geared to a younger crowd (ages 13 to 21) but adults will find it fascinating too.  The author perfectly selected how to end this book in order to leave the reader wanting more.  I am looking forward to reading the remaining books and hope the next volume is released soon.

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