Leap of Faith

I really liked this book. I'm a bit stingy about my 5 stars but this one came close.

This book has many elements that make it an excellent read. There's the mystery of why Abby was expelled from public school, the on-going struggle with her self-involved parents, Abby's discovery of a hidden talent and the satisfaction of watching her develop it. And, of course, watching her develop her approach to religion. It is an honest book, not preachy at all. I liked it a lot.

I'm so, so glad I read this book. Leap of Faith stands out for a few reasons. It deals with religion, which isn't often tackled in MG literature without being overly preachy, or on the other side of the coin, overly cynical. Leap of Faith strikes a perfect balance with a story that it funny, real, hopeful, and uplifting without ever feeling contrived. It's fun to read and kid-friendly, too -- a great, great book.

After what her parents call "the accident," sixth-grader and previously good student Abby was expelled from her previous school. Left with three choices (the county alternative school, private school, or being homeschooled), she ends up at St. Catherine's, a private Catholic school. Her family isn't very religious, but beggars can't be choosers. She has to go somewhere, so there she goes. Abby refuses to talk to anyone about the incident. This is partially because she's a private person, and partially because she thinks she doesn't have anyone to talk to about it. She likes being angry, claiming that the emotion gives her energy and power. Meanwhile, her parents would rather not discuss anything upsetting, so whenever Abby's expulsion comes up in what little conversation they have, they dance around the subject. Like the incidents in Just Listen by Sarah Dessen or Sweethearts by Sara Zarr, "the accident" (and the truth behind it) is revealed in bits and pieces throughout the book. Similar to the revelation in Laurie Halse Anderson's novel Speak, this isn't just about what happened to Abby or how she reacted, but when she choses to talk about it and the person she chooses to be her confidant. (Note that this book is for a younger audience than the aforementioned titles, but can still be enjoyed by teens and adults.) Leap of Faith by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley is about acceptance, survival, and forgiveness. It is also about trust and about belief - in yourself, in the truth, in other people. It is possible to have a strong sense of faith without necessarily being religious. Thanks to her new friend Chris, his mother, and newfound faith in herself, Abby finds her way and proves that she is a survivor. This book was chosen as a finalist in the Middle Grade category of the 2007 Cybils Awards. I also placed it on my Best Books of 2007 list. I encourage kids and adults alike to read this book, then talk about what caused Abby's expulsion and what to do if something similar happens to them.

Even though the book is considered realistic fiction, the mystery of the incident between Brett and Abby remains untold until the end of the story which helps build suspense. The reader also becomes emotionally involved, feeling Abby's frustration with her "absent" parents. Humor is interspersed throughout the book along with interesting observations of the Catholic faith. Overall, an uplifting story of self-discovery, forgiveness, and faith. Great for a reader of any or no religion!