Just End It reviewed by Jessica Dowling for Hooked on Books

“Just End It is about a girl called Jessie, who gets bullied by her own best friend. She blames it on a mysterious rock she found at Whale Bay. Then her ex-best friend starts cyberbullying her, and everything goes downhill.

I really loved how the author Donna Blaber put a little bit of fantasy in the story. There’s just enough so you get a clear image of what is going on. She also teaches the readers a lot about Māori mythology and traditions.

I think the author’s aim was to tell people how bad bullying is and how to deal with it. I think a lot of teenagers will relate to the story.

I really like how Jessie dealt with the bullying and found a way to get over it. It gives you confidence in your own friendships.”

Hooked on Books is an incredible website for youth where young readers are able to submit reviews of books they’ve recently read, with the chance to get published. It’s part of the work of READ NZ Te Pou Muramura who also provide a great Writers in Schools programme.

I really enjoyed reading Jessica’s review. For the whole review read more.

Just Remember reviewed by Natalya Newman for Hooked on Books

“Donna Blaber’s Just Remember follows her previous book, Just End It, in a series that presents magic in everyday life, and in places that many New Zealand readers will be familiar with. This book looks into recovery from trauma, survivor’s guilt, grief, loss, and all of the complexities that arise – both mentally and physically – when a loved one passes away. Just Remember does not sugarcoat the grief that Em’s family goes through after the death of her Dad, and proves to be an eye-opening warning to drivers.

This novel puts heavy emphasis on the strong connections forged between family members and friends, and also how the faintest touch of magic can bring it all together in ways that can be unexpected. Magic in the modern world can be anything. Perhaps it’s getting home to see your pet waiting for you, or even finding something you lost a long time ago. Experiences can forge beautiful memories and connections between people, and Blaber expertly highlights the support that can be found within those connections throughout the duration of this book.” Natalya Newman.

I really enjoyed reading Natayla Newman’s review of Just Remember for Hooked on Books, an incredible website for youth where young adult (YA) readers are able to submit reviews of books they’ve recently read.

Natalya is talented young writer and has done a stunning job. For the full review, read more.