Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Shooting Stars by Allison Rushby - OPTIONAL

Rushby, Allison Shooting Stars, 272 pgs. Bloomsbury/Walker & Co., February 2012. (Language - PG; Sexual Content - PG; Violence - PG). Teenaged paparazzo Jo will do whatever it takes to get the perfect shot, but papping has grown old, and Jo wants out of the game. So when a sleazy editor offers her a huge sum - enough to quit for good and finally enroll in the portrait photography classes she's always wanted - she takes it. In return, she must go undercover at an exclusive retreat in order to dig up dirt on teen star Ned Hartnett. What's even worse than betraying the confidentiality of the only celebrity who's ever been nice to her? Falling in love with him.


Shooting Stars sounded like a juicy read with plenty of insider scoops about the lives of the paparazzi and celebrities. However, the first half was very slow, as the action kept stopping so Jo could agonize yet again about whether or not she should do this assignment. It was also very difficult to sympathize with her, because she makes some rather questionable decisions, although she grows more likable as the story progresses. Rushby did throw in several fun twists, and the developing love story was a sweet touch. In addition, the book dealt with several heavier issues in very deft ways. MS, HS. OPTIONAL. Reviewed by: Caryn

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