Scotty Fitzgerald and her father search for Scotty’s mother, who Scotty always thought was dead. Along the way they encounter new friendships, life-and-death situations, and God's amazing love.
The Christy-award winning author of nineteen books including the Women of Faith Novel of the Year Quaker Summer, Lisa Samson has been hailed by Publishers Weekly as "a talented novelist who isn't afraid to take risks." She lives in Kentucky with her husband and three kids.
This is book two in a four book series. I probably won't pick up the last two. I enjoyed book one and liked the voice of Scotty, the homeschooled, teenage, RVing main character. It was something different and refreshing.
In this book there was just more of the same - exactly the same type of setting, characters, and occurrences. There were also a couple of storyline items that were completely unbelievable and very distracting.
I may read the reviews for books three and four that boast spoiler alerts. That way I can find out how things end up without investing anymore money into the series. Sorry, I just don't think they'd be worth it.
**I'm going to be mentioning things from this book as well as the previous book in the series, Hollywood Nobody, so be aware that you may come upon a spoiler or two.**
To be perfectly honest, I was a little hesitant to read the next book in the Hollywood Nobody Series. I read book one, and while I loved the opening and Scotty's fun sense of humor, I just wasn't crazy about the religious portions of the book (more on that later). But I'm a firm believer in giving an author a second chance, so I plunged ahead and read book 2, Finding Hollywood Nobody.
The opening of this book...awesome! I couldn't believe it started out in Memphis, TN which, for one, was great for this local native, and for two, simply because it was set in the South. Happy smiles all around. :o) I loved reading about Scotty's trip to Graceland, as well as trip to a local food joint, Pirtle's. For some, seeing local places mentioned in a book may not be a big deal, but when you're familiar with an area, you like to see and hear about the *actual local places*. So...for those of you that don't know, Pirtle's has GREAT fried chicken, and it was indeed a pleasure to see it get some love in this book. ;o)
Scotty was her typical self in this book--pretty opinionated, maybe a little bit ADD, and frankly, more mature than most 16-year-olds that I know. Sometimes, it was soooo hard to follow her train of thought because she kept jumping from one topic to the next. It was more prevalent in the first book than in this book, so I was pleased that her character had a little more focus here. I also missed the frequency of her "blog posts" in this book compared to the first, but as this book reached the end, it made perfect sense why they had slacked off.
The biggest thing I was happy about was her spiritual journey advanced a great deal in this book. When I read book one, I won't lie....I was not crazy about how church/Christianity/denominations were portrayed. I'm probably very much in the minority on that, but still...just my opinion. See, I was raised in a Pentecostal church, complete with people speaking in tongues and everything else that goes with it. As I've grown older, I've come to my own conclusions about their particular teachings, and it was just best that we parted ways. So, when I started reading about Scotty's visits to a local tent meeting in book one, I was very surprised that a Pentecostal preacher was the one conducting the services....complete with the speaking in tongues and healing services. You name it, it was there. The reason it bothered me was that, for someone not familiar with all the many denominations there are (and yes, we all have some reason why we believe the way we do, or go to this church or that church), that particular denomination is so universally misunderstood. I just think that the author didn't need to make it that complicated because even Scotty's character questioned whether or not they were legit. I don't thing a YA book should be tackling those kinds of issues that early. It can be overload. Believe me, I know...I had the same questions when I was growing up and seeing it at church every week. It wasn't that I was offended by the content...just very, very surprised. Maybe I'm way off base here to some, and if I am, I apologize (especially if I've offended anyone...that is not my intention at all). Maybe Scotty was more mature and discerning at that point in life than I was at her age...I don't know.
So, I said all that to say that Scotty figured out her place with God in book two, and it was written perfectly. Her character even alluded to a bit of confusion from the services mentioned in book one, but I think it was just like water off a duck's back in her mind. She figured out her own way to Christ...no denomination needed. :o)
Now that I've gotten past all that I didn't like from book one, I'm really eager to read the rest of the series and find out what happens with Scotty. Lesson for me--it just goes to show that you can never judge a book by it's cover, and just because one book experience was bad doesn't mean that all books by that same author will be bad, too. :o)
Teen girl Scotty, Samson's protagonist in this young adult series for girls, is on the run with her hippie grandma, Charley, from a mysterious stranger. Charley designs food for movies, so Scotty is in on the Hollywood scene even as they travel for movies shot on location. She blogs the latest gossip and tries to keep her head on straight despite her crazy RV-living life.
The average reader of this book is probably a young woman, 11-14 years old, who has grown up in a Christian home if not Christian school or home school.
I am about 15 years older than the target audience of this book, but I usually enjoy teen fiction because it is quick and entertaining. Unfortunately, this book didn't really keep my attention and I only finished reading it because of this review I needed to write.
The book is written entirely in the present tense (one of my pet peeves) and is very chatty and full of useless phrases like "I'm just sayin'" (another pet peeve). I found Scotty to be annoying and I didn't want to be inside her head more than necessary. But I was in her head ALL the time. It really was overkill -- first person present tense for the narrator, plus a blog written by Scotty, plus Scotty's diary which she writes to someone named "Elaine." Oh, and text messages and online chat sessions. It was just too much. I never got settled into the story and was constantly reminded that I was reading a book about an opinionated teen. In fact, I put the book down for several weeks because I couldn't take it anymore.
In addition to my distaste for the character, I found the plot a bit forced. I guessed the surprise twist/ending by about page 80 (out of 189 pgs) and can probably tell you how book 3 ends as well. **A warning -- if you've lost a child through miscarriage or still birth or at infancy, this book will not be fun about ½ or ¾ through.**
As a teen, I got so irritated by Christian fiction because half of it was like reading a church service or listening to a guidance counselor. So I stopped reading it altogether. I hoped it would be different by now, but it really isn't. I think adults and parents want their kids to read this, but if given the choice, the teens would skip over all the religious stuff (like I did).
This book feels like the publisher went to a popular author and said, "We need something like Gossip Girl, but clean and Christian, with a good salvation message." I agree that the Gossip Girl and Pretty Little Liars books are over the top and ridiculous, but why do we as Christians feel the need to copy something successful and just add a chapter or two on Jesus? Surely we can be deeper and more creative than that.
Other reviewers of this book seemed to have wanted more Christian content, but I really wanted less. (And yes, I am a strong Christian in case you're wondering.) I don't want to be hit over the head with it.
I haven't read anything else by Samson, but I am guessing I would probably appreciate her work for adults in the general market more.
** Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I clearly was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
In Finding Hollywood Nobody you meet, Scotty, who is now 16, and discovering huge things about her family. As she travels to Texas in this book she discovers new friends, and a faith she is unacquainted with. After the reading the first book in the 'Hollywood Nobody' series I was a skeptic that I might enjoy the second book available. I was surprised though to find that this was a really entertaining book! It's a young adult series, but I still enjoyed it otherwise. I think the book tries to address social issues, to relate to teens. The lead character, Scotty, seems too perfect in my opinion though. The blog she keeps was referred to less than in the first book in the series, but when we do read her entries they seemed to be wrote by a much older woman. I'm not sure why someone who is sixteen would comment, or care about Julie Roberts, and Reese Witherspoon being good moms. This book does better at conveying her teenage side, and I hope that continues to shine through as I continue the series. There is also a Christian message in this book, but it seems very rushed. I think there should have been a series build up to Scotty's conversion. She wasn't raised in a Christian home, and it seems she would have sought more guidance on such a big decision.
Even though I wouldn't have recommended the first book in the series, Hollywood Nobody, I would definitely recommend Finding Hollywood Nobody to young adults, and adults. The series is worth the start to get the storylines developed in the rest of the series. I enjoyed Finding Hollywood Nobody, and look forward to reading the rest of Scotty's journey.
I received this complimentary book copy from NavPress in exchange for a review.
Scotty's headed for a new film shoot with Charley, her grandmother the foodstylist, but while some things never change - like Hollywood stars and the pitfalls of fame - Scotty refuses to accept the status quo for her life any longer. Since discovering the truth about Charley and her parents, Scotty's tired of running - she wants the truth and she wants answers - and a little bit of normalcy would be nice. She breezes into town, quickly makes new friends, has an insatiable thirst for knowledge, and isn't afraid to ask the tough questions of others. Her dialogue with God is unflinchingly honest and real, and because she refuses to accept easy answers, she's a refreshingly honest, genuine voice. It's wonderful to see such an honest seeker in fiction, someone who doesn't fit the mold of a cookie-cutter Christian, and to see how she approaches prayer and learning about God.
Either I'm incredibly out of touch, or Scotty's life is insanely implausible, but none of that matters - Scotty is an utterly believable, fascinating character. Samson's writing is fast-paced and the dialogue snappy, which makes this second entry in the Hollywood Nobody series a lightning fast, can't-put-it-down read. Scotty's blog entries are once again a major highlight of the story - but I missed reading the comments section this time around. Samson resolves some of Scotty's questions and the mystery shrouding her past, while leaving enough loose ends and open possibilities that promise the final two Nobody novels - Romancing Hollywood Nobody and Goodbye Hollywood Nobody - will be as compulsively readable, entertaining, and thought-provoking as this latest installment.
This is the second book in the Hollywood Nobody series. I already did a review on the first book, Hollywood Nobody.
Once again, I read this entire book in one sitting. I just could not put it down.
In the last book we are left off with Scotty and Charley being chased down by Biker Guy. We are unsure of who he is, but we have an idea of why he is chasing after them. This book you will have that one blown wide open. And let me tell you, I was surprised.
Scotty befriends a girl her age named Grace. She finds out that Grace is pregnant and living in horrible conditions. She wants to do something to help Grace, but she is afraid since they are on the run from Biker Guy.
Once again, Lisa Samson delivers with a great story and even better characters. I wish I had a sister like Scotty. She is funny, intelligent, and caring. She is the type of person that will go to extremes to help someone out.
If you haven’t gone out to get the series after my review of the first book, then what are you waiting for? These are relatively quick reads that you will not want to put down.
In conjunction with the Wakela's World Disclosure Statement, I received a product in order to enable my review. No other compensation has been received. My statements are an honest account of my experience with the brand. The opinions stated here are mine alone.
This is the second book in the series, and while you can read it as a stand alone, I would recommend reading the first book first. It really sets you up for what happens in the second book.
I adore Scotty and her view of the world. I also loved seeing her deal with stressful situations and learning the power of prayer. She is a genuine teen and she cares about people, and because you are in her head you can see what she is thinking and feeling. Scotty continues to blog about the "scoop" regarding Seth and Karissa, and she actually gives pretty sound advice on more than one occasion. That whole celebrity scenario is such fun to read. Then add to that her friend in crisis and a delightful surprise at the end (which made me actually cry several times - but they were happy tears) this book is about as close to perfect as any I've read.
I wish I could say more but that would make this review a spoiler and you don't want that. Half the fun is disovering these things (as a reader) while you enjoy the story. At any rate, Finding Hollywood Nobody has all the makings of a great YA novel. It has believeable characters and situations, realistic conflict, quirky scenarios, and suspenseful plot. I am totally loving this series and plan to read the next installment very soon.
In Lisa Samson’s Finding Hollywood Nobody, Scotty and Charley head to Marshall, Texas where Jeremy is directing a horror film. Horrifying to Scotty is that actress, Karissa Bonano, has the lead. While Charley mass produces food for the set, Scotty explores her new surroundings as usual, befriending the locals who teach her a little bit about the power of prayer. She looks forward to Seth Haas’ visit, but Biker Guy is nearby, which sets everyone on edge. Scotty is tired of living in fear and looking over her shoulder. She gets careless. Will prayer be enough to save her when Biker Guy finally catches up with her?
I loved Lisa Samson’s first book in this series, Hollywood Nobody, and this sequel did not disappoint. Scotty is a wonderfully deep character with a witty, sarcastic voice. The story weaves through the lives of real people and shows us that making friends is always worth the effort, despite age, race, fame, or wealth. It also left me anxiously awaiting book three. Well done!
This is one of those books you either dig or you bury.
It’s a happy, hippie teen read about fifteen-year-old Scotty and her grandmother Charley who are moving from one movie set to another in a trailer trying to live as much of a normal life as they can while evading a killer out to get them. A lot of it is written diary-style by Scotty, the conversational tone balancing out the grave plot twists.
Scotty is hardly the typical teen: she’s raised to think Charley is her mother, discovers the truth that her mother is dead, then finds she could still be alive–all while avoiding being killed by a politician’s henchman.
Other than that, she’s just like everyone else her age: quirky, a little weird, loves burgers and fries, and learning bit by bit how faith works in daily life.
Finding Hollywood Nobody will interest tweens: the book cover is an attractively fun and easygoing, it’s just the right length for short attention spans, but, typical of Navpress books, substantive enough with solid biblical insights.
Love the Hollywood Nobody Series. Scotty is on the road in Texas this time, still on the run to some sense. She continues on her journey of self-discovery and faith, running into interesting and helpful characters along the way. But who is the man following her, and what will she discover about her mysterious past if he finds her? Is it life and death????
This is a supurb Christian Teen Series. With each book, lead character Scotty not only learns more about her life, but about her relationship with God. Since she really doesn't have a faith background, her observations and interpretations are refreshing. The mystery surrounding her background is compelling. The diary type format makes the book fun and easy to read.
I love that Lisa Samson created this series, and to see the progression with each book.
Editted to add: Re-read in 2015. Still enjoy the innocence of this series vs. other YA stuff that I have read. The main characters is a pip and I know there is more fun to come.
FINDING HOLLYWOOD NOBODY by Lisa Samson is the second book in the Hollywood Nobody series. We follow Scotty as she travels to yet another movie set, makes new friends, and yearns to have the secrets of her past put to rest so she can live a normal life.
Continuing in its unique blog/diary writing style, FHN is a great teen novel. Though I have a hard time reading a book with this form of pacing, I once again found myself being able to move pass the method of writing and enjoy the quirkiness of the characters Lisa Samson has created.
FHD answers some questions from book one, and though some of it is predictable, that doesn’t diminish the enjoyment of the story. The HN series has grown on me. Though I have had to read book one and two for review purposes for a blog tour, I know I would now pick up book three, even if it wasn’t required reading. Good job, Lisa.
Reactions: This down to Earth novel seemed to have a slow start to me and I thought I wouldn't like it, but then again, I was trying to start it while I was at work with the noise coming from everywhere. Once I got to my room and my bed and my solitude, I loved it! I mean I finished it in a little over 24 hours! It was funny and silly and it had God!
It's set in present day USA with a girl my age named Scotty... It's a long name that's all I say. Her grandmother is a food stylist for movies and they live in a trailer since they are on the run from "Biker Guy" who has been following them around for years now.
This is the second novel of the Hollywood Nobody series so I can't really easily explain all that is going on, but I will say that I still loved it. The book was easy to get into with an awesome cast of characters with everyday sort of problems!
Scotty and Charley are on the move again. This time they are headed to Marshall, Texas to another one of Jeremy’s films. While staying in town Scotty makes new friends. She learns about herself and God, which wasn’t really what she planned, but she’s happy for it. She even learns more about her family, things get better for her in Charley. Biker Guy is still chasing them but Scotty is tired of running away.When she finally confronts him what could be the result?
I really did like this book, it shows you how God is always there, no matter what. I even learned a bit about myself too. I have to admit some parts were not at all what I expected, but it was a great book overall. I give it four stars, and definitely recommend it if you’re looking for a quick, easy read.
I honestly could not put this book down! Previously, I really enjoyed the prequel to this Hollywood Nobody, and even without that background I still think this would have been just as enjoyable. Scotty is such a character and there is no way that someone cannot just fall in love with her. I cannot wait for the next Romancing Hollywood Nobody. Lisa Samson has truly won my heart over with her work and I will definitely look forward to her in the future. I already have Embrace Me and the novel retelling of the film Bella in my TBR pile and will you a review of them ASAP!
When I downloaded the first book in this series as a freebie for my Kindle, I didn't realize that it was Christian fiction (that was before I learned to look at the tags, because A LOT of the Kindle freebies tend to be from Christian publishers). The first one wasn't terribly overt, either, so I didn't realize it was Christian-based until I got into the second book. Each one has gotten progressively preachier, which is not my cup of tea. I only got them so that I could see what happens to Hollywood Nobody, as I was mildly hooked on her general character and the books were all quick reads. I wouldn't recommend them for people who aren't fans of Christian literature, though.
Such a major disappointment after reading the first novel in the Hollywood Nobody series. The first one was charming and entertaining with a great story, quirky main character and even a little mystery thrown in. This one was about 5% actual story and 95% about finding Jesus. If I had wanted to read that kind of novel, I would have chosen to do so.
Once again, scotty is so adorably unique she can't fail to win you over. It dragged a little around the middle but that beautiful ending really made up for it. While I suspected Grammie and Grampie might in fact be scotty's paternal grandparents, the rest of the ending really got me. I cried like a baby. can't wait to see where she goes with the rest of this series
Oh, to be Scotty. This is the second book for this series and it follows our quirky character Scotty-the lover of cheese. Even if you totally despise cheese like I do, you will like this book. (Note: this book is not cheesy. Our character just loves cheese like I love junk food).
I really enjoyed this. There were so many moments when I started thinking to myself," NO WAY!". Just so many story line jumps where it just flips your world upside down. Scotty is an amazing character. This was a book I could really connect to. I loved it.
It took me until the end of this book to discover it is a Christian series. It was so subtle. Still a fun read. I like this girl. I wish I had her for a friend when I was 16.
Excellent read, and has a good ending (although I kind of figured it out from hints in the first book - no spoilers here!). Can't wait to continue the series!