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Christy Miller
Departures: Now Boarding at Gate 10 (Christy Miller)/Please Pick Up the White Courtesy Phone (Cooper Ellis)/In the Event of a Water Landing
A collection of stories which feature Christy Miller, Sierra Jensen, and Cooper Ellis gaining new understandings about faith and themselves during trips to various destinations
271 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 1999
19 people are currently reading
555 people want to read
About the author
Robin Jones Gunn
163 books2,641 followersROBIN JONES GUNN has written more than 100 books with over 6.5 million copies sold worldwide. Her Father Christmas books have been made into three Hallmark Christmas movies. The timeless Christy Miller series now continues in Christy & Todd: The College Years, Married Years, Baby Years, and the Haven Maker series. Robin's novels and non-fiction works include Before Your Tween Daughter Becomes a Woman, Victim of Grace, Praying for Your Future Husband, and Before You Meet Your Future Husband co-authored with Tricia Goyer. Her books have received multiple awards and are a favorite with book clubs and study groups. Many of Robin's books are in eBook, audiobook, large print, and foreign editions. Robin does a weekly Podcast called "Women Worth Knowing" with Cheryl Brodersen. Robin and her husband have a grown son and daughter and live in California.
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April 29, 2015
Well, that was big waste of time.
NOVELLA 1: NOW BOARDING AT GATE 10
Post-break-up with Todd, Christy Miller travels back 'home' to the North Woods of Wisconsin for her grandparents' 50th anniversary party. There, she reconnects with her childhood crush, Matthew. I'm telling you, for a Christian girl who didn't start dating 'til she was 16, and never moves past “light kissing,” Christy has had more boyfriends in her high school years than anyone I've ever known. o.O Boys just pop up out of the woodwork for her left and right. She's never single.
This novella didn't annoy me as much as the full-length Christy books did. Why? Because Todd and Doug are not in this book. As you may or may not remember, Todd and Doug tend to be preachy and bossy. Finally, in this small vignette, Christy is the one who makes her own decisions and choices.
It's true that Matthew is a Christian, a year “younger” in his Christianity than Christy, but he doesn't seem to have inherited the “I get to tell you what to do because I have a penis” attitude that Todd and Doug have.
Now, leaving Christy on her own to make her own decisions and come to her own conclusions is a bit frustrating. She's very insecure, wishy-washy, and self-doubting. But she always pulls through in the end.
This novella was especially good because I think Christy makes a smart decision in it. She goes back to her hometown and is slammed with all these intense feelings of seeing her childhood crush again. And it seems as if he's single and interested, too.
Things are complicated because Melissa, another childhood friend, seems to have a crush on Matthew, and is always around him. When Christy directly asks Matthew if he and Melissa are/were dating (good for you, Christy), Matthew basically tells her “it's complicated” and doesn't elaborate. Um, warning! Boys won't give you a straight answer about their dating past/present = shady.
Christy ends up in the uncomfortable position of feeling as if she's “competing” with Melissa for Matthew's affections. Awkward. I wanted to tell her, “Don't compete for a boy's attention. If he likes you, he will pay attention to you and not other girls. Just ¡cálmate!” It's just my personal opinion that you shouldn't let a guy come between you and your friends just because he flirts with both of you. I know this is going to fall on deaf ears, because teenagers (and adults!) can't really help how they feel, but I feel like this was a dick move on Matthew's part. I know he didn't mean to, but riling up two girls to fight over you is wrong and cruel.
In the end, Christy is like, “This was just a crush. It's been fun catching up, bye.” Good for her. Perhaps Matthew and Melissa will end up together, perhaps not. o.O
Things I liked:
1.) Christy and her little brother David, who have shown only annoyance and animosity towards each other throughout the series, play a secret midnight game of Monopoly. It was sweet and I liked getting that hit of sibling-love that I crave. Your sibling can be your closest friend, and I liked seeing them get along for once.
2.) This scene, in which Christy's grandma tells her the secret to knowing who to marry.
It's a choice, you know,” Grandma said, peering through her bifocal glasses and looking steadily at Christy. “You get to know someone and then you ask yourself, 'Would I like to spend the rest of my life with this person?' If the answer is yes, then you wait until you have a big argument. Or until something goes wrong, or he does something you don't like. And when things are at their lowest, you ask yourself again, 'Would I like to spend the rest of my life with this person?' If the answer's still yes, then you know you're in love.”
Then we have to discuss this “practice dating” thing. When Christy reappears in Matthew's life, he thinks that she's still with her ex-boyfriend, Todd. But he believes that this is the perfect time to get in some “practice dating” (he thinks he's inexperienced.) He soon finds out that Christy is single but still keeps treating her as if he's interested in her romantically. Is he actually romantically interested in her, or is he just using her for “practice?”
The fact that he's hiding her status as a “practice girlfriend” is what really disturbs me. The idea of “practice dating” is not new to me, however, all the boys I knew who wanted to do it told the girl upfront about what was going on and what was going to happen and what their intentions were. Of course, “practice dating” itself is problematic, because even if both parties go into it with eyes open, fake relationships lead to real feelings. Just like adults who say “friends with benefits” or “we'll just be sex buddies” - oftentimes this leads to messy confusion and hurt feelings eventually. I think Matthew was a jerk for a.) playing Melissa and Christy off each other, and b.) setting up Christy as his “practice girlfriend” without her knowledge or consent.
NOVELLA 2: IN THE EVENT OF A WATER LANDING
Perhaps this novella annoyed me more because I don't know Sierra Jensen as well as I know Christy Miller. I finished this story thinking it was completely pointless.
It has almost no plot. Sierra and her best friend, Jana, go up to the cabin for a long weekend. With them are Jana's 19-year-old brother Gregg and his best friend Tim. To add even more flirting options, Danny (Jana's childhood crush) is at the resort, too.
Things I Liked:
1.) Sierra wears a skirt made out of men's ties that she designed herself. Super-cool.
2.) Sierra is a lot more forceful and decisive than Christy. She actually knocks a man out with a soda can because he grabbed her. I like this more dynamic personality of hers.
Things I Didn't Like:
1.) The utter lack of plot. It's just a big flirting fest. Sierra flirts with Gregg, Danny, and Tim. Jana flirts with Danny and Tim (Gregg's her brother.) Nothing ever "happens" because this is a Robin Jones Gunn book. Also, Gregg and Tim are 19. I'm sure they see the girls (aged 15) as more "little sister types" than "hottie-types" - at least I HOPE so.
2.) The fact that even though Sierra and Jana are supposed to be "best friends," they just fight a lot and compete for boys a lot. Doesn't sound like a good best friend relationship to me.
3.) The scene in the mall where Tim and Gregg are checking out some girls. Sierra notices, and Gregg basically tells her, "One day you'll be a knockout, too. Then you'll be thrilled that guys like us are looking at you." Um, ew. I totally understand and don't mind the boys checking out girls at the mall. Fine. But then turning to your little sister's best friend and saying, "If you're lucky, you too will get to be ogled at the mall!?" This seemed ... wrong to me. I didn't like it.
I'll leave you with an unintentionally hilarious part:
"I'm going in now," Sierra said, picking up her Bible and tucking it under her arm. She had heard people refer to their Bibles as their "sword," and as soon as she picked it up, she felt armed and ready for this night stalker. If he so much dared to take one step out of that kayak and up the ladder, Sierra would knock him on the head with her Bible and send him sprawling into the cold water.
LOL Insert gif here of Mandy Moore throwing a Bible at Mary in Saved while yelling, "I am FILLED with Christ's love!"
MARY: "This is not a weapon, you idiot." LOL
NOVELLA 1: NOW BOARDING AT GATE 10
Post-break-up with Todd, Christy Miller travels back 'home' to the North Woods of Wisconsin for her grandparents' 50th anniversary party. There, she reconnects with her childhood crush, Matthew. I'm telling you, for a Christian girl who didn't start dating 'til she was 16, and never moves past “light kissing,” Christy has had more boyfriends in her high school years than anyone I've ever known. o.O Boys just pop up out of the woodwork for her left and right. She's never single.
This novella didn't annoy me as much as the full-length Christy books did. Why? Because Todd and Doug are not in this book. As you may or may not remember, Todd and Doug tend to be preachy and bossy. Finally, in this small vignette, Christy is the one who makes her own decisions and choices.
It's true that Matthew is a Christian, a year “younger” in his Christianity than Christy, but he doesn't seem to have inherited the “I get to tell you what to do because I have a penis” attitude that Todd and Doug have.
Now, leaving Christy on her own to make her own decisions and come to her own conclusions is a bit frustrating. She's very insecure, wishy-washy, and self-doubting. But she always pulls through in the end.
This novella was especially good because I think Christy makes a smart decision in it. She goes back to her hometown and is slammed with all these intense feelings of seeing her childhood crush again. And it seems as if he's single and interested, too.
Things are complicated because Melissa, another childhood friend, seems to have a crush on Matthew, and is always around him. When Christy directly asks Matthew if he and Melissa are/were dating (good for you, Christy), Matthew basically tells her “it's complicated” and doesn't elaborate. Um, warning! Boys won't give you a straight answer about their dating past/present = shady.
Christy ends up in the uncomfortable position of feeling as if she's “competing” with Melissa for Matthew's affections. Awkward. I wanted to tell her, “Don't compete for a boy's attention. If he likes you, he will pay attention to you and not other girls. Just ¡cálmate!” It's just my personal opinion that you shouldn't let a guy come between you and your friends just because he flirts with both of you. I know this is going to fall on deaf ears, because teenagers (and adults!) can't really help how they feel, but I feel like this was a dick move on Matthew's part. I know he didn't mean to, but riling up two girls to fight over you is wrong and cruel.
In the end, Christy is like, “This was just a crush. It's been fun catching up, bye.” Good for her. Perhaps Matthew and Melissa will end up together, perhaps not. o.O
Things I liked:
1.) Christy and her little brother David, who have shown only annoyance and animosity towards each other throughout the series, play a secret midnight game of Monopoly. It was sweet and I liked getting that hit of sibling-love that I crave. Your sibling can be your closest friend, and I liked seeing them get along for once.
2.) This scene, in which Christy's grandma tells her the secret to knowing who to marry.
It's a choice, you know,” Grandma said, peering through her bifocal glasses and looking steadily at Christy. “You get to know someone and then you ask yourself, 'Would I like to spend the rest of my life with this person?' If the answer is yes, then you wait until you have a big argument. Or until something goes wrong, or he does something you don't like. And when things are at their lowest, you ask yourself again, 'Would I like to spend the rest of my life with this person?' If the answer's still yes, then you know you're in love.”
Then we have to discuss this “practice dating” thing. When Christy reappears in Matthew's life, he thinks that she's still with her ex-boyfriend, Todd. But he believes that this is the perfect time to get in some “practice dating” (he thinks he's inexperienced.) He soon finds out that Christy is single but still keeps treating her as if he's interested in her romantically. Is he actually romantically interested in her, or is he just using her for “practice?”
The fact that he's hiding her status as a “practice girlfriend” is what really disturbs me. The idea of “practice dating” is not new to me, however, all the boys I knew who wanted to do it told the girl upfront about what was going on and what was going to happen and what their intentions were. Of course, “practice dating” itself is problematic, because even if both parties go into it with eyes open, fake relationships lead to real feelings. Just like adults who say “friends with benefits” or “we'll just be sex buddies” - oftentimes this leads to messy confusion and hurt feelings eventually. I think Matthew was a jerk for a.) playing Melissa and Christy off each other, and b.) setting up Christy as his “practice girlfriend” without her knowledge or consent.
NOVELLA 2: IN THE EVENT OF A WATER LANDING
Perhaps this novella annoyed me more because I don't know Sierra Jensen as well as I know Christy Miller. I finished this story thinking it was completely pointless.
It has almost no plot. Sierra and her best friend, Jana, go up to the cabin for a long weekend. With them are Jana's 19-year-old brother Gregg and his best friend Tim. To add even more flirting options, Danny (Jana's childhood crush) is at the resort, too.
Things I Liked:
1.) Sierra wears a skirt made out of men's ties that she designed herself. Super-cool.
2.) Sierra is a lot more forceful and decisive than Christy. She actually knocks a man out with a soda can because he grabbed her. I like this more dynamic personality of hers.
Things I Didn't Like:
1.) The utter lack of plot. It's just a big flirting fest. Sierra flirts with Gregg, Danny, and Tim. Jana flirts with Danny and Tim (Gregg's her brother.) Nothing ever "happens" because this is a Robin Jones Gunn book. Also, Gregg and Tim are 19. I'm sure they see the girls (aged 15) as more "little sister types" than "hottie-types" - at least I HOPE so.
2.) The fact that even though Sierra and Jana are supposed to be "best friends," they just fight a lot and compete for boys a lot. Doesn't sound like a good best friend relationship to me.
3.) The scene in the mall where Tim and Gregg are checking out some girls. Sierra notices, and Gregg basically tells her, "One day you'll be a knockout, too. Then you'll be thrilled that guys like us are looking at you." Um, ew. I totally understand and don't mind the boys checking out girls at the mall. Fine. But then turning to your little sister's best friend and saying, "If you're lucky, you too will get to be ogled at the mall!?" This seemed ... wrong to me. I didn't like it.
I'll leave you with an unintentionally hilarious part:
"I'm going in now," Sierra said, picking up her Bible and tucking it under her arm. She had heard people refer to their Bibles as their "sword," and as soon as she picked it up, she felt armed and ready for this night stalker. If he so much dared to take one step out of that kayak and up the ladder, Sierra would knock him on the head with her Bible and send him sprawling into the cold water.
LOL Insert gif here of Mandy Moore throwing a Bible at Mary in Saved while yelling, "I am FILLED with Christ's love!"
MARY: "This is not a weapon, you idiot." LOL
August 3, 2020
This book will hook you up after just reading the back. For a girl who fell in love with the Christy Miller books and The Sierra Jensen series years ago,and now had the opportunity to read 2 short stories from them both .. I cant be more in love with Robin Jones Gunn's characters then now! Reading these stories made me learn more and more about Two of my favorite characters in Robins Books!! I love how even though the stories were really short I still learned soo much about ;True friendship,bloom with Grace, The most important relationship you need to grow closer on is with Jesus Christ. One thing i didnt like about this book was I wish Robin made 2 separate books of these stories and make them a little bit longer. I cant praise Robin Jones Gunn books enough her books have helped me in my life soo much .Even though it's only been a few years since I started reading her books they have changed my life in so many ways.God Has spoken to me through her books throughout my life so many times i have lost track. These are a MUST READ BOOKS and after you read it the first time ... you HAVE TO GO BACK AND REREAD THEM ALL OVER AGAIN!! I can go a reread her books 100% times and it will never get old Its like the first time I read them over again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 4, 2017
“Departures” is a really fun summery book with two novellas in it. One is about Christy Miller and the other is about Sierra Jensen.
The first story, “Now Boarding at Gate 10”, is about Christy. She has just graduated from high school and she and her family take a trip to visit her grandparents. This story takes place between “Sweet Dreams”, book 11, and “A Promise is Forever”, book 12, in the 12 book “Christy Miller” series.
The next story, “In the Event of a Water Landing”, is Sierra's story. She is 15 in this story and it takes place about six months before the “Sierra Jensen” series starts.
Christy and Sierra unknowingly cross paths on their way to their summer vacations.
These stories take place on and around the 4th of July, which makes this a really fun summer book!
The first story, “Now Boarding at Gate 10”, is about Christy. She has just graduated from high school and she and her family take a trip to visit her grandparents. This story takes place between “Sweet Dreams”, book 11, and “A Promise is Forever”, book 12, in the 12 book “Christy Miller” series.
The next story, “In the Event of a Water Landing”, is Sierra's story. She is 15 in this story and it takes place about six months before the “Sierra Jensen” series starts.
Christy and Sierra unknowingly cross paths on their way to their summer vacations.
These stories take place on and around the 4th of July, which makes this a really fun summer book!
April 19, 2023
This book contains two novellas.
The first novella features Christy Miller travelling back to Wisconsin for her grandparents 50th wedding anniversary. This story takes place between books 11 & 12 of the Christy Miller series, It was fun seeing Christy interact with more family members. Her grandparents are sweet.
The second novella features Sierra Jensen going to a cabin with her friend Jana and a few others. This story takes place before the Sierra Jensen Series, I think it's the same summer. This story wasn't that interesting and I didn't enjoy it much.
The first novella features Christy Miller travelling back to Wisconsin for her grandparents 50th wedding anniversary. This story takes place between books 11 & 12 of the Christy Miller series, It was fun seeing Christy interact with more family members. Her grandparents are sweet.
The second novella features Sierra Jensen going to a cabin with her friend Jana and a few others. This story takes place before the Sierra Jensen Series, I think it's the same summer. This story wasn't that interesting and I didn't enjoy it much.
June 25, 2011
Departures contains two stories from Robin Jones Gunn’s popular series. Now Boarding at Gate 10 finds Christy Miller after high school graduation, on a family trip to Wisconsin. In the Event of a Water Landing is part of the Sierra Jensen series.
I had never read anything by Gunn and did not realize that these stories were part of a series. Someone who has read the other books would probably like this one. I don’t like to read books out of order, but with some books, you can do that and still have an idea of what’s going on. These two stories are okay as stand-alone stories, but for the most part, I think you should skip this book unless you’re a fan of Gunn’s other books.
Now Boarding at Gate 10 felt as if it were missing too much information. I just didn’t know any of the back-story and I felt like I was playing catch-up through the whole thing. After reading Departures, I looked online and apparently Christy and Todd dated for a few years. Knowing that (and possibly other things I don’t know that I don’t know) would have made the story flow better for me. This is why I really dislike reading books out of order.
I’m trying to remember how weird my friends and I were at 15, because from the perspective of a 35-year-old, I don’t really like Sierra Jensen or her friend Jana. Jana has picked this summer to “grow up” and start dating and Sierra isn’t sure she’s ready for that yet. Which is great. She’s reading her Bible and lecturing her friend… then doing the same things she doesn’t like to see Jana doing. She figures it out in the end, but I didn’t enjoy reading it.
So, I would recommend this for readers of the Christy Miller and Sierra Jensen series. If you’re not already familiar with Gunn’s characters, skip this book until you’re caught up on the others. I’ve added the Christy Miller books to my to-read list, but I think I’ll pass on the Sierra Jensen stories.
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.
I had never read anything by Gunn and did not realize that these stories were part of a series. Someone who has read the other books would probably like this one. I don’t like to read books out of order, but with some books, you can do that and still have an idea of what’s going on. These two stories are okay as stand-alone stories, but for the most part, I think you should skip this book unless you’re a fan of Gunn’s other books.
Now Boarding at Gate 10 felt as if it were missing too much information. I just didn’t know any of the back-story and I felt like I was playing catch-up through the whole thing. After reading Departures, I looked online and apparently Christy and Todd dated for a few years. Knowing that (and possibly other things I don’t know that I don’t know) would have made the story flow better for me. This is why I really dislike reading books out of order.
I’m trying to remember how weird my friends and I were at 15, because from the perspective of a 35-year-old, I don’t really like Sierra Jensen or her friend Jana. Jana has picked this summer to “grow up” and start dating and Sierra isn’t sure she’s ready for that yet. Which is great. She’s reading her Bible and lecturing her friend… then doing the same things she doesn’t like to see Jana doing. She figures it out in the end, but I didn’t enjoy reading it.
So, I would recommend this for readers of the Christy Miller and Sierra Jensen series. If you’re not already familiar with Gunn’s characters, skip this book until you’re caught up on the others. I’ve added the Christy Miller books to my to-read list, but I think I’ll pass on the Sierra Jensen stories.
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.
July 21, 2018
I do my reviews in the form of a letter, which is why they are written like this.
Dear Robin Jones Gunn,
I will review the two sections separately.
Now Boarding at Gate 10 (Christy Miller)-
Well, to be honest this book wasn't that great. It was definitely not bad, since you write really well, but I didn't enjoy it all that much. I think a lot of it is the fact that it was really short, and everything moved way too fast. Also, the storyline was a tad slow. :) I liked seeing Christy in Wisconsin, since I'd never seen her there before. Well, I only had for a short while. Matthew Kingsley was an interesting character. He wasn't Todd, but he definitely was NOT Rick! I guess it felt like a really odd and weird relationship. Some things were also kind of cheesy for me. I really like Christy, but sometimes she's just too boy-crazy. The ending also came way too fast. They were interested in each other and then they decided they weren't. Oh, well. I kind of liked this book, but the other Christy Miller books are definitely better!
In the Event of a Water Landing (Sierra Jensen)-
I wasn't sure what to expect with this book. This was my first whole Sierra Jensen book. It was okay. This book is like the other book. Honestly, I did not like Jana. She was a total drag and seemed like she was never getting along with Sierra. Also, she seemed way too interested in getting guys to like her. Ugh. Sierra was a good character. I like that she seems different from Katie, even though their personalities are very much alike. I just didn't like this short book all that much. But I look forward to reading the Sierra Jensen series!
As a whole, I did like this book. I think it could have been better, but I understand it was because it was short. So thanks for writing it!
Sincerely,
Lena Marie
Dear Robin Jones Gunn,
I will review the two sections separately.
Now Boarding at Gate 10 (Christy Miller)-
Well, to be honest this book wasn't that great. It was definitely not bad, since you write really well, but I didn't enjoy it all that much. I think a lot of it is the fact that it was really short, and everything moved way too fast. Also, the storyline was a tad slow. :) I liked seeing Christy in Wisconsin, since I'd never seen her there before. Well, I only had for a short while. Matthew Kingsley was an interesting character. He wasn't Todd, but he definitely was NOT Rick! I guess it felt like a really odd and weird relationship. Some things were also kind of cheesy for me. I really like Christy, but sometimes she's just too boy-crazy. The ending also came way too fast. They were interested in each other and then they decided they weren't. Oh, well. I kind of liked this book, but the other Christy Miller books are definitely better!
In the Event of a Water Landing (Sierra Jensen)-
I wasn't sure what to expect with this book. This was my first whole Sierra Jensen book. It was okay. This book is like the other book. Honestly, I did not like Jana. She was a total drag and seemed like she was never getting along with Sierra. Also, she seemed way too interested in getting guys to like her. Ugh. Sierra was a good character. I like that she seems different from Katie, even though their personalities are very much alike. I just didn't like this short book all that much. But I look forward to reading the Sierra Jensen series!
As a whole, I did like this book. I think it could have been better, but I understand it was because it was short. So thanks for writing it!
Sincerely,
Lena Marie
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 22, 2011
I love young adult books. For me, short stories aren't favorites of mine. I am always left feeling as if things were just dropped and left. It always feels so unfinished to me. I really enjoyed the first story of Christy returning to her home town for her grandparents anniversary after high school graduation. When she returns she is told that her first crush, Matt is looking to call on her. Is it possible to have a new beginning with her first crush? Is he even interested? I thought the author did a good job of creating a history of the characters. It was a sweet reunion. Very safe and perfect for young girls.
The second story about Sierra didn't grab me. Sierra just wants to hang out with good friend Jana. Jana is different than she remembers and is only interested in boys. I didn't connect with any character.
What I did like about these stories is I didn't feel preached to. Although there are references to scripture and God, the stories will appeal to young girls even if they aren't religious.
The second story about Sierra didn't grab me. Sierra just wants to hang out with good friend Jana. Jana is different than she remembers and is only interested in boys. I didn't connect with any character.
What I did like about these stories is I didn't feel preached to. Although there are references to scripture and God, the stories will appeal to young girls even if they aren't religious.
August 30, 2012
This was a pretty dull, predicable book. I picked it up because I love Gunn's writing and I have read both the Christy Miller and Sierra Jensen series. I don't know if it's because these were "novellas" that some of the storylines seemed rushed and unrealistic, but I had a hard time really immersing myself in the stories. The characters were consistent with how they were in the series, and it was fun to read about them again, but the stories were just missing something.
In the Christy Miller portion, high school graduate Christy goes back to Wisconsin with her family for her grandparent's 50th anniversary. While there, she reconnects with her elementary school/junior high crush Matthew. It seems that romance might be rekindled, but then it just seems to end.
Fifteen year-old Sierra goes to a Montana cabin with her friends and finds that the trip is way too complicated for her liking. Her friend is emotional, they run into airline problems, and Sierra deals with her battle in becoming more wise.
In the Christy Miller portion, high school graduate Christy goes back to Wisconsin with her family for her grandparent's 50th anniversary. While there, she reconnects with her elementary school/junior high crush Matthew. It seems that romance might be rekindled, but then it just seems to end.
Fifteen year-old Sierra goes to a Montana cabin with her friends and finds that the trip is way too complicated for her liking. Her friend is emotional, they run into airline problems, and Sierra deals with her battle in becoming more wise.
June 10, 2011
I bought this book off amazon years ago and finally read it. I loved the extra stories about Christy and Sierra and about died when they saw each other at the airport but didn't know one another yet!
April 28, 2025
I LOVE the christy miller books! so far 5 stars for the ones i have read.
March 31, 2023
Departures contains two novellas. The first one is about Christy going to Wisconsin for her grandparents 50th anniversary. This takes place between the last Christy Miller book and the first Sierra Jensen book. Todd has already left and Christy hasn't started dating Doug yet.
The second novella is about Sierra and it was just okay. I found the storyline boring, for the most part. Her friend annoyed me at times and I just didn't connect to the story.
The second novella is about Sierra and it was just okay. I found the storyline boring, for the most part. Her friend annoyed me at times and I just didn't connect to the story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 12, 2021
I know I had read the Christy story before but I don't think I had read the Sierra story.
Enjoyable enough if you're already familiar with the characters, but the boy crazy plots (esp the Sierra story) were a little over the top when crammed into roughly 100 pages. The Sierra vs Janitor bit did make me laugh aloud.
Enjoyable enough if you're already familiar with the characters, but the boy crazy plots (esp the Sierra story) were a little over the top when crammed into roughly 100 pages. The Sierra vs Janitor bit did make me laugh aloud.
June 15, 2011
So what's it about? Well if you are like most Christian homeschooling Mom's you likely already know all about Christy Miller and her friends. If you don't (and if you have a pre-teen/teenage daughter) you are missing out. The series of books that include Christy Miller are written by Robin Jones Gunn (you may know her from Sisterchick fame), and are about a young girl and her friends coming of age. The books begin when Christy is around 14 and stay with her through college and into marriage. They are clean, wholesome books, but they are not unrealistic, everyone makes mistakes in life, even Christy and her friends.
Departures is a book that contains two novellas, one centered on Christy, the other on her friend Sierra Jensen. In face here's the synopsis: Christy Miller and Sierra Jensen cross paths on their way to summer vacations that reveal what a gift it is to have a true Forever Friend.
Now Boarding at Gate 10
After her high school graduation, still aching from Todd’s departure, Christy joins her family on a trip to Wisconsin to visit relatives. While there, she reunites with Matthew, an old friend from junior high. When Matthew starts to show a romantic interest in Christy, she realizes this summer vacation could change everything she thought her future would be.
In the Event of a Water Landing
Fifteen-year-old Sierra Jensen can’t wait to spend her summer vacation with her friend Jana at a pristine lake in Montana. But when they arrive, it becomes clear that Jana’s only interest is acquiring a boyfriend. Sierra just wants to hang out with the guys as friends, but Jana turns every encounter into a possible romantic relationship. As their friendship begins to suffer, Sierra wonders if it’s possible to find a Forever Friend who will listen to you, laugh with you, and keep your confidences.
Would I recommnd it: Well I figure you really don't want my opinion on this one, since the book is geared to the YA crowd and I am definitely not YA (Young Adult). So I asked the best YA reader I know: My 14 year old daughter. She read through the book(s) and returned with a resounding yes. She loves Christy Miller and was very glad to have the opportunity to read another book about her. She gives it 5 stars. She is sure you will too.
This book was provided to me by Waterbrook Multnomah as part of their Blogging for books program all opinions are my own.
Departures is a book that contains two novellas, one centered on Christy, the other on her friend Sierra Jensen. In face here's the synopsis: Christy Miller and Sierra Jensen cross paths on their way to summer vacations that reveal what a gift it is to have a true Forever Friend.
Now Boarding at Gate 10
After her high school graduation, still aching from Todd’s departure, Christy joins her family on a trip to Wisconsin to visit relatives. While there, she reunites with Matthew, an old friend from junior high. When Matthew starts to show a romantic interest in Christy, she realizes this summer vacation could change everything she thought her future would be.
In the Event of a Water Landing
Fifteen-year-old Sierra Jensen can’t wait to spend her summer vacation with her friend Jana at a pristine lake in Montana. But when they arrive, it becomes clear that Jana’s only interest is acquiring a boyfriend. Sierra just wants to hang out with the guys as friends, but Jana turns every encounter into a possible romantic relationship. As their friendship begins to suffer, Sierra wonders if it’s possible to find a Forever Friend who will listen to you, laugh with you, and keep your confidences.
Would I recommnd it: Well I figure you really don't want my opinion on this one, since the book is geared to the YA crowd and I am definitely not YA (Young Adult). So I asked the best YA reader I know: My 14 year old daughter. She read through the book(s) and returned with a resounding yes. She loves Christy Miller and was very glad to have the opportunity to read another book about her. She gives it 5 stars. She is sure you will too.
This book was provided to me by Waterbrook Multnomah as part of their Blogging for books program all opinions are my own.
May 2, 2011
Christy Miller and Sierra Jensen cross paths on their way to summer vacations that reveal what a gift it is to have a true Forever Friend.
Now Boarding at Gate 10
After her high school graduation, still aching from Todd’s departure, Christy joins her family on a trip to Wisconsin to visit relatives. While there, she reunites with Matthew, an old friend from junior high. When Matthew starts to show a romantic interest in Christy, she realizes this summer vacation could change everything she thought her future would be.
In the Event of a Water Landing
Fifteen-year-old Sierra Jensen can’t wait to spend her summer vacation with her friend Jana at a pristine lake in Montana. But when they arrive, it becomes clear that Jana’s only interest is acquiring a boyfriend. Sierra just wants to hang out with the guys as friends, but Jana turns every encounter into a possible romantic relationship. As their friendship begins to suffer, Sierra wonders if it’s possible to find a Forever Friend who will listen to you, laugh with you, and keep your confidences.
As Robin was cleaning out her house for her move to Hawaii she found a couple of previously published manuscripts and we now benefit from this find.
The book Departures are two novelettes and very quick reads. The first is the story of Christy going home to Wisconsin for her Grandparents 50th anniversary. There she finds Matthew...the boy she had a crush on for many of her Elementary thru HS. He takes her on a trip back in time around the area. Although she has already met Todd, he is gone on a Mission and they have broken us. Makes you want to read more of Christy's story!
The Second novelette is the story of Sierra Jensen and her trip to spend a long weekend in Montana. The girls are growing up and not sure which direction they are headed. This one gives a few chuckles along the way, and is very enjoyable.
This book is geared towards the Teenage set, and is the beginning of a set of great series!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook. I 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Now Boarding at Gate 10
After her high school graduation, still aching from Todd’s departure, Christy joins her family on a trip to Wisconsin to visit relatives. While there, she reunites with Matthew, an old friend from junior high. When Matthew starts to show a romantic interest in Christy, she realizes this summer vacation could change everything she thought her future would be.
In the Event of a Water Landing
Fifteen-year-old Sierra Jensen can’t wait to spend her summer vacation with her friend Jana at a pristine lake in Montana. But when they arrive, it becomes clear that Jana’s only interest is acquiring a boyfriend. Sierra just wants to hang out with the guys as friends, but Jana turns every encounter into a possible romantic relationship. As their friendship begins to suffer, Sierra wonders if it’s possible to find a Forever Friend who will listen to you, laugh with you, and keep your confidences.
As Robin was cleaning out her house for her move to Hawaii she found a couple of previously published manuscripts and we now benefit from this find.
The book Departures are two novelettes and very quick reads. The first is the story of Christy going home to Wisconsin for her Grandparents 50th anniversary. There she finds Matthew...the boy she had a crush on for many of her Elementary thru HS. He takes her on a trip back in time around the area. Although she has already met Todd, he is gone on a Mission and they have broken us. Makes you want to read more of Christy's story!
The Second novelette is the story of Sierra Jensen and her trip to spend a long weekend in Montana. The girls are growing up and not sure which direction they are headed. This one gives a few chuckles along the way, and is very enjoyable.
This book is geared towards the Teenage set, and is the beginning of a set of great series!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook. I 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
April 27, 2011
Departures contains two very short novellas about two girls that Robin has other books about. The first part of the book is called Now Boarding at Gate 10, is about Christy. She flies to previous home tome in Wisconsin to celebrate her grandparent’s 50th wedding anniversary. While she is there she meets up with her elementary crush Matthew and he takes her on a tour of her past. Christy spends a lot of time reflecting on her personal relationships, her future and relationship with God.
The second half of the book is called In the Event of a Water Landing, and it is the about Sierra and her summer vacation. Sierra goes on trip with her friend Jana along with Jana's older brother and his friend Tim. Jana spends a lot of time flirting with guys while Sierra decides to just sit back and enjoy the summer while reflecting on what God wants for her life and her friendship with Jana and her new interest in boys.
I enjoyed both of these short stories about teens. I have not read any of the other books so I did have a hard time connecting with the characters but overall it was good. In the story about Christy I had a harder time enjoying because I felt like her character was a little unbelievable. She was supposed to be 18 years old but I felt the character was really immature and was a lot younger. The second story was a lot more believable to me. Both story lines were cute though and the message was clear. The message being that God cares about your relationships with other people and with Him and he wants you to consult with him with every decision in your life. I would recommend this story for young teens at any age!
To comply with regulations by the Federal Trade Commission, please note that Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes. I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.
The second half of the book is called In the Event of a Water Landing, and it is the about Sierra and her summer vacation. Sierra goes on trip with her friend Jana along with Jana's older brother and his friend Tim. Jana spends a lot of time flirting with guys while Sierra decides to just sit back and enjoy the summer while reflecting on what God wants for her life and her friendship with Jana and her new interest in boys.
I enjoyed both of these short stories about teens. I have not read any of the other books so I did have a hard time connecting with the characters but overall it was good. In the story about Christy I had a harder time enjoying because I felt like her character was a little unbelievable. She was supposed to be 18 years old but I felt the character was really immature and was a lot younger. The second story was a lot more believable to me. Both story lines were cute though and the message was clear. The message being that God cares about your relationships with other people and with Him and he wants you to consult with him with every decision in your life. I would recommend this story for young teens at any age!
To comply with regulations by the Federal Trade Commission, please note that Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes. I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.
April 26, 2011
Ten years ago I read the Christy Miller series of books by Robin Jones Gunn, after a good friend recommended them for their spiritual application. Spiritual? A set of teen books? Usually these things are all fluff--which girl likes which boy, blah blah blah. Yes, there is some of that here. HOWEVER, I had clearly underestimated Ms. Gunn. Not only are the spiritual applications there, the characters also seem so real--as in, they go through challenges, have ups and downs, pray and try to let God work, mess up sometimes, and start all over again. What I have loved about the character of Christy Miller is that she falters, but she is growing. From Book One of the series, we see a dramatic shift in her character that is nevertheless subtle enough to be valid.
In Departures, we see Christy after having just graduated from high school. Now, I have read the books that are further in the series, so I know how it all ends up. This novella is more of an intermission-type of story. It was interesting, though, and I did like what the author did with the characters in less than 100 pages.
The second novella was about Sierra Jensen, who Gunn also wrote a series of books about, and who eventually does hover in the periphery of the Christy books as well. I hadn't read much about Sierra but I liked her immediately. In this book, she is only fifteen, yet she seems really grounded (but, again, not unrealistically so). This contrasts the Christy character at age fifteen, who was much more flighty and goofy. I like that the character knows who she is and seeks out a relationship with God on her own. Inspiring stuff!
Thank you, Ms. Gunn, for these stories, which upon rediscovery, are just as wonderful as ever!
In Departures, we see Christy after having just graduated from high school. Now, I have read the books that are further in the series, so I know how it all ends up. This novella is more of an intermission-type of story. It was interesting, though, and I did like what the author did with the characters in less than 100 pages.
The second novella was about Sierra Jensen, who Gunn also wrote a series of books about, and who eventually does hover in the periphery of the Christy books as well. I hadn't read much about Sierra but I liked her immediately. In this book, she is only fifteen, yet she seems really grounded (but, again, not unrealistically so). This contrasts the Christy character at age fifteen, who was much more flighty and goofy. I like that the character knows who she is and seeks out a relationship with God on her own. Inspiring stuff!
Thank you, Ms. Gunn, for these stories, which upon rediscovery, are just as wonderful as ever!
April 23, 2011
This book contains two novellas featuring Christy Miller and Sierra Jensen. In Now Boarding at Gate 10 Christy and her famliy travel to Wisconsin to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of her grandparents. Christy has broken up with her boyfriend Todd and her heart is still sad over the decision. In Wisconsin she reconnects with Matthew, a friend she grew up with and had a crush on. Christy reflects on relationships through watching her parents, grandparentsand what she has learned about God.
In the Event of a Water Landing tells the story of Sierra Jensen who takes a trip to Montana with her friend Jana and her brother Gregg and Gregg's friend Tim. They are going to stay at Jana and Gregg's parent's cabin on the lake. Jana interests have turned to boys and getting a boyfriend but Sierra isn't sure she is ready for that yet. Sierra spends her vacation thinking about dating, how her friendship with Jana is changing and making the right choices with God's help.
I enjoyed both stories very much even though I am not a teen and have not read the other books in each series. Both were fun reads that discussed important life issues in a positive way.
To comply with regulations by the Federal Trade Commission, please note that Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes. I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.
In the Event of a Water Landing tells the story of Sierra Jensen who takes a trip to Montana with her friend Jana and her brother Gregg and Gregg's friend Tim. They are going to stay at Jana and Gregg's parent's cabin on the lake. Jana interests have turned to boys and getting a boyfriend but Sierra isn't sure she is ready for that yet. Sierra spends her vacation thinking about dating, how her friendship with Jana is changing and making the right choices with God's help.
I enjoyed both stories very much even though I am not a teen and have not read the other books in each series. Both were fun reads that discussed important life issues in a positive way.
To comply with regulations by the Federal Trade Commission, please note that Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes. I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.
May 17, 2011
Departures by Robin Jones Gunn is two different stories that were written years ago and Robin and her agent decided to publish them again. I’m very glad they did because these two stories, one about Christy Miller and the other about Sierra Jensen are really fantastic stories. I’ve never read Robin’s books about Christy or Sierra, but have heard many good things about them.
I like that in this book at one point both Christy and Sierra are in the same scene, but don’t talk or become friends. That’s a neat way to write two stories, but have them connect.
These stories are for young adults and are really full of common problems that young people face and the trials and temptations that they face. I love the Christian outlook that these teen girls have and their strong faith.
If you are looking for a very good book with lessons for your teens and older girls/boys this is a fantastic book. I like a book where teens have convictions and do the right thing. You will also really enjoy the trouble and the fun situations that they all get into.
I highly recommend this super book for your young adults to read, enjoy and learn from.
Thanks to WaterBrookMultnomah for providing this book for review. I 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 Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255
I like that in this book at one point both Christy and Sierra are in the same scene, but don’t talk or become friends. That’s a neat way to write two stories, but have them connect.
These stories are for young adults and are really full of common problems that young people face and the trials and temptations that they face. I love the Christian outlook that these teen girls have and their strong faith.
If you are looking for a very good book with lessons for your teens and older girls/boys this is a fantastic book. I like a book where teens have convictions and do the right thing. You will also really enjoy the trouble and the fun situations that they all get into.
I highly recommend this super book for your young adults to read, enjoy and learn from.
Thanks to WaterBrookMultnomah for providing this book for review. I 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 Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255
December 3, 2011
Now Boarding at Gate 10- a Christy Miller novella
Having just graduated high school, Christy goes back to Wisconsin with her family to visit relatives. There she reunites with Matthew, a boy she once had a huge crush on. Now that Todd is gone, could Christy start over with someone like Matthew? What if someone else was interested long before Christy came to visit?
In the Event of a Water Landing- a Sierra Jensen novella
Sierra heads off to a lake in Montana for a vacation with her friend Jana and Jana’s family. Excited to have lots of fun, Sierra is frustrated with Jana’s new boy-crazy demeanor. Will the whole trip be nothing but one big fight? And is Jana right? Should Sierra grow up and start looking for a boyfriend too?
What sweet stories. It was nice to visit Christy again. She is a wonderful character, and Robin Jones Gunn always weaves such wonderful stories. How fun to have the chance to read two stories that weren’t included in the new collections. I’ve read all Christy’s books except the college years, but this was the first Sierra-only book I’ve read. I liked her very much and must start reading the Sierra Jensen collection soon. I’ve you’ve never read these, I highly recommend Robin Jones Gunn’s books. They are a must read for any teenage girl, and for the nostalgic adult too.
Having just graduated high school, Christy goes back to Wisconsin with her family to visit relatives. There she reunites with Matthew, a boy she once had a huge crush on. Now that Todd is gone, could Christy start over with someone like Matthew? What if someone else was interested long before Christy came to visit?
In the Event of a Water Landing- a Sierra Jensen novella
Sierra heads off to a lake in Montana for a vacation with her friend Jana and Jana’s family. Excited to have lots of fun, Sierra is frustrated with Jana’s new boy-crazy demeanor. Will the whole trip be nothing but one big fight? And is Jana right? Should Sierra grow up and start looking for a boyfriend too?
What sweet stories. It was nice to visit Christy again. She is a wonderful character, and Robin Jones Gunn always weaves such wonderful stories. How fun to have the chance to read two stories that weren’t included in the new collections. I’ve read all Christy’s books except the college years, but this was the first Sierra-only book I’ve read. I liked her very much and must start reading the Sierra Jensen collection soon. I’ve you’ve never read these, I highly recommend Robin Jones Gunn’s books. They are a must read for any teenage girl, and for the nostalgic adult too.
February 22, 2015
Departures contains two novellas about the adventures that Christy Miller and Sierra Jensen go on during one of their summers. Since I’ve read all of the books in the Christy Miller series, I was really able to enjoy and connect with that story more than the Sierra Jensen one. One of the many reasons I continue to read Robin Jones Gunn’s books is because she provides such spiritual refreshment and creates characters that can relate to teen girls, no matter the generation. Although it does seem that some of the things in her stories are outdated—for example, the conversations that teenagers have—she is still a brilliant writer and has a knack for showing God’s love through her stories, relating to teens and their journey to adulthood.
Departures would especially be a nice summer read, preferably for the fans of Christy Miller and/or Sierra Jensen series. I feel that this book would relate best to ages 13 – 15 or 16.
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.
Departures would especially be a nice summer read, preferably for the fans of Christy Miller and/or Sierra Jensen series. I feel that this book would relate best to ages 13 – 15 or 16.
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.
May 22, 2011
This was a young adult book that included two longer short stories about two very separate young teenage girls. I have never read a book by this author but I had no problem jumping into either short story. I greatly enjoyed the first one about Christy Miller, but did not enjoy the second story at all. About 70 pages into the second story, all of a sudden the main character, Sierra, starts talking about God & religion & that felt very fake to me. Why did 70 pages pass before the first mention of religion, and all of a sudden Sierra is so religious she's reading her book in the middle of the night? It would have been easy enough to introduce Sierra as a Christian earlier in the short story, but the author didn't. I'm sure regular readers would know this detail, but this just felt very fake & forced to me, especially since the second half of the story regularly introduced religiously elements, like quoting scriptures.
May 20, 2011
This was a very cute story. I haven't read any of the Christy Miller or Sierra Jensen books before this. I thought it was going to be a novel but it's really two novellas. The stories were very cute, for the 18 and under age group. I always like books where two stories collide. When you can find characters from a series in the authors new books. It always makes me smile. My favorite of the two stories would have to be the Christy Miller story, Now Boarding at Gate 10. It was very cute. I was hoping there would have been more between Christy and Matt. That's the thing I don't like about novellas, it kind of feels like you get cheated. You don't get a full story. Everything's all smashed together. You get the point but still, I like long novels.Very fast, Very easy read.
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah in exchange for my honest review.
November 1, 2011
This book has two short stories in it that are part of a much larger series. They are ok reads on their own, but there is a lot of back story that I was missing out on.
I did enjoy the book. But I felt that I would have enjoyed it much more if I would have read the entire series.
I don’t think I will be going back to read the earlier books, because I didn’t enjoy it that much.
It didn’t have that same grip over me that many other books have. I think it is because they were short stories and it was assumed by the author that you know all of the back story.
So unless you have already read some of the series, you might want to steer clear.
I did enjoy the book. But I felt that I would have enjoyed it much more if I would have read the entire series.
I don’t think I will be going back to read the earlier books, because I didn’t enjoy it that much.
It didn’t have that same grip over me that many other books have. I think it is because they were short stories and it was assumed by the author that you know all of the back story.
So unless you have already read some of the series, you might want to steer clear.
May 3, 2011
Before I share my review of this book, I must say the following;I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.
This book was comprised of two short stories about Christy Miller and Sierra Jensen. The stories were definiely aimed at teenage girls. I think I would have enjoyed the stories better if I had read the series the author had written about each of the characters. It was hard to connect with the characters because it was assumed the reader had already read the series.
This book was comprised of two short stories about Christy Miller and Sierra Jensen. The stories were definiely aimed at teenage girls. I think I would have enjoyed the stories better if I had read the series the author had written about each of the characters. It was hard to connect with the characters because it was assumed the reader had already read the series.
April 26, 2010
This is a collection of three novellas by the two authors starring the main characters from each of their series for teenagers. The three novellas each deal with travelling and going on vacation. Each of the girls learn a valuable lesson while on vacation in their various places. Though with Robin Jones Gunn's two novellas both Sierra Jensen and Christy Miller make an appearance in each other's book though you will need to look closely to find it.
May 23, 2011
I received this book through the FirstReads giveaway. Departures is 2 stories in one book. In the first story, Christy Miller goes back to her hometown and reconnects with Matthew, and old friend. In the second story, Sierra Jensen goes on a weekend vacation to Montana with her friend Jana and Jana's family. This book is geared toward teenagers and would make a great summer read. I really enjoyed it. The plot flowed at a good pace, and the characters were very relatable.
April 28, 2009
This was a book composed of three shorter stories. I really love Robin Jones Gunn and her series, but this book wasn't super - the short stories didn't really add to the overall series. The third story and author was one I had never heard of before.
March 12, 2012
Great young adult book. It describes 2 young ladies who are Christians and their first crushes and romances. They cross paths in the airport but don't realize it. Takes place over the 4th of July. I would recommend this.
July 2, 2011
I won this book as a goodreads giveaway. This is a book with 2 novellas about to high school girls trying to find there way into the dating world. I think this would be a good read for any girl in high school trying to find where she belongs. This is a very fast read.
May 1, 2011
I won this book in a goodreads contest. I'm very happy to have won this book. I can't wait to read it. It looks very fun and interesting.
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