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Chasing the Skip
Ricki's dad has never been there for her. He's a bounty hunter who spends his time chasing parole evaders―also known as "skips"―all over the country. But now since Ricki's mom ran off, Ricki finds herself an unwilling passenger in a front-row seat to her father's dangerous lifestyle. Ricki's feelings get even more confused when her dad starts chasing seventeen-year-old Ian Burnham. She finds herself unavoidably attracted to the dark-eyed felon who seems eager to get acquainted. But Ricki thinks she's ever in control―the perfect manipulator. Little does she know that Ian isn't playing their game by her rules.
240 pages, Hardcover
First published October 2, 2012
7 people are currently reading
620 people want to read
About the author
Janci Patterson
57 books251 followersJanci Patterson writes fantasy, science fiction, and contemporary young adult novels. Janci lives in Orem, Utah, with her husband, Drew Olds, and their children. Janci's first science fiction novel, A Thousand Faces, is available for free from all e-book vendors. Visit Janci at her website, www.jancipatterson.com, to join her reader's group for access to another free novel, her middle grade Searching for Super, only available there.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
October 19, 2012
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3.5/5 Stars
Chasing the Skip, was a different book than I expected it to be. After reading the synopsis, my mind zeroed in on a couple of things: bounty hunters and a teenage felon, who may or may not be a good guy, who has skipped out on his bond. So what I was kind of expecting was a teenage Bonnie and Clyde type of story. The good girl falls for the bad boy when her father apprehends him, and in turn goes on the run with him. Maybe they knock over a few banks in the process. Well, that is not exactly how Chasing the Skip played out. Yes, there is a good girl and yes, there is a bad boy, but Chasing the Skip is actually a cautionary tale. It is also a book that centers more around the family drama between an estranged father and daughter than a romantic love story between two teens. Did I end up liking this turn of events or did it totally bomb because it wasn't at all what I was expecting? Let's discuss:
Chasing the Skip is told in first person POV, which is always my preferred perspective in the books I read. Ricki is your typical teenage girl living a rather atypical life. Raised by a single mom, Ricki has never really known her dad. Ricki's upbringing was a far cry from stable. When she was old enough to stay on her own her mom routinely checked out. Most of the time it would only be for the night, or a day. But sometimes she'd disappear long enough that Ricki would have to leave her deserted home and go stay with her grandmother. Then Ricki's mom leaves and doesn't come home. Ricki is unsure if she's going to show up again one day like she always does or if this time she is gone for good. Ricki's grandmother calls her dad and tells him that he needs to get his daughter and take her in, that it's time to step up as a parent. The story begins with Ricki now living 'on the road' with her bounty hunter dad. Her dad, unconventional job aside, seems to want to make amends with his daughter and become a better parent. But Ricki is having a hard time forgiving and forgetting and an even harder time writing her mom off completely. She keeps hoping to hear from her and begins investigating her disappearance on her own.
I liked the character of Ricki, and I really did sympathize with her plight. She's pretty angsty but she sort of has a right to be. Her dad doesn't have a 'real home', instead living in a travel trailer that he can move around as needed while he's on the road hunting down 'skips', those who have skipped out on their bond. Because of this, Ricki is unable to go to school, but her dad is making her keep up with her homework assignments until he can find a solution to the problem of where they can live. Ricki feels very isolated and cut off. She misses her friends and her boyfriend hasn't been in touch with her since she left with her dad. With these things in mind it's easy to see how Ricki might make some poor decisions after her dad picks up a teenage felon named Ian. A friendship of sorts forms between the two and although he is a shady character, he's her age, and not too hard on the eyes, and Ricki is aching to talk to someone her age.
So I don't fault Ricki for her lapses in judgement when it comes to Ian. I do think that a girl with the background that she has should probably have more street smarts and common sense, but because of the situation she is in, and the strained relationship with her dad and mom, Ricki's actions aren't THAT hard to swallow. And yeah, I'm being vague here because I don't wish to spoil.
Ricki as a character was very well developed, as was her father. What I liked about Ricki's dad was that he was a parental figure with his heart in the right place, even if his past actions didn't exactly demonstrate that. To his credit he is genuinely trying to make amends to Ricki for not being around. And now that he is stepping up to the plate and has come on board as a dad, limited as his experience is, he has FULLY come on board. Ricki's dad is a DAD, not a friend, not a buddy, a DAD. That's important because Ricki has always been more of a parent to herself than her mom ever was. And it also helps to create conflict between an independent, headstrong daughter and a stubborn yet well meaning father.
Whereas Ricki and her dad are both fleshed out characters, I found Ian, the 'skip,' to be a little lacking in that department. Ian is an interesting character for sure. He's been let down by every adult he's ever known and as a result he has lost all respect for them and the law. Ian has become a master manipulator and will do whatever he thinks he needs to do to survive. Ian has very little trust in anyone and that does make him a somewhat sympathetic figure. But even with those bits of insight into his personality, I couldn't help but feel like his character lacked depth. Ian had loads of potential but ultimately fell short with me, which was disappointing.
Chasing the Skip is a fast read, the pacing was handled well. I also really liked Janci Patterson's smooth writing style. I wouldn't call it poetic or lyrical, but it was authentic and easy to read. As far as action goes, there are tense moments in Chasing the Skip, but if you are looking for all out action and adventure Dog, The Bounty Hunter style, I think you will be disappointed. In fact the portrayal of the life of a bounty hunter isn't what you'd find on your favorite TV show or on film. And this felt authentic to me. You know when you watch a cop show on TV it's a whole lot of action and on the go crime solving? But you know in reality there is a bunch of boring paperwork involved, mundane stake outs and false leads. That is sort of what Chasing the Skip reminded me of. It's not the slick dramatic look at the life of a bounty hunter, instead it felt more like the real life version of what the job really entails. Lots of driving from place to place to look for somebody. Apprehending suspects without a crazy car chase or dangerous foot race (although there is an instance of both in the book.) Picking up routine skips, like a serial drunk who keeps forgetting to make his court dates.
While I appreciated the non-Hollywood version of the job, I have to say it was also a tad disappointing. It would've been cool for a little more action, and I think that is something that many readers might be expecting. But this all goes back to the fact that Chasing the Skip wasn't written as an action/ adventure kind of book. And it wasn't written as a 'dangerous romance' kind of book. There are elements of both included, but Chasing the Skip is really a book about families. What constitutes a family and what it takes to maintain a family. And Janci Patterson does a very good job writing THAT story.
So in summary, if you like contemporary dramas that are well paced, have only a smidgen of action but much more tension, are a bit lighter on the romance and more focused on family relationships, than I think you will enjoy Chasing the Skip from debut author Janci Patterson.
3.5/5 Stars
Chasing the Skip, was a different book than I expected it to be. After reading the synopsis, my mind zeroed in on a couple of things: bounty hunters and a teenage felon, who may or may not be a good guy, who has skipped out on his bond. So what I was kind of expecting was a teenage Bonnie and Clyde type of story. The good girl falls for the bad boy when her father apprehends him, and in turn goes on the run with him. Maybe they knock over a few banks in the process. Well, that is not exactly how Chasing the Skip played out. Yes, there is a good girl and yes, there is a bad boy, but Chasing the Skip is actually a cautionary tale. It is also a book that centers more around the family drama between an estranged father and daughter than a romantic love story between two teens. Did I end up liking this turn of events or did it totally bomb because it wasn't at all what I was expecting? Let's discuss:
Chasing the Skip is told in first person POV, which is always my preferred perspective in the books I read. Ricki is your typical teenage girl living a rather atypical life. Raised by a single mom, Ricki has never really known her dad. Ricki's upbringing was a far cry from stable. When she was old enough to stay on her own her mom routinely checked out. Most of the time it would only be for the night, or a day. But sometimes she'd disappear long enough that Ricki would have to leave her deserted home and go stay with her grandmother. Then Ricki's mom leaves and doesn't come home. Ricki is unsure if she's going to show up again one day like she always does or if this time she is gone for good. Ricki's grandmother calls her dad and tells him that he needs to get his daughter and take her in, that it's time to step up as a parent. The story begins with Ricki now living 'on the road' with her bounty hunter dad. Her dad, unconventional job aside, seems to want to make amends with his daughter and become a better parent. But Ricki is having a hard time forgiving and forgetting and an even harder time writing her mom off completely. She keeps hoping to hear from her and begins investigating her disappearance on her own.
I liked the character of Ricki, and I really did sympathize with her plight. She's pretty angsty but she sort of has a right to be. Her dad doesn't have a 'real home', instead living in a travel trailer that he can move around as needed while he's on the road hunting down 'skips', those who have skipped out on their bond. Because of this, Ricki is unable to go to school, but her dad is making her keep up with her homework assignments until he can find a solution to the problem of where they can live. Ricki feels very isolated and cut off. She misses her friends and her boyfriend hasn't been in touch with her since she left with her dad. With these things in mind it's easy to see how Ricki might make some poor decisions after her dad picks up a teenage felon named Ian. A friendship of sorts forms between the two and although he is a shady character, he's her age, and not too hard on the eyes, and Ricki is aching to talk to someone her age.
So I don't fault Ricki for her lapses in judgement when it comes to Ian. I do think that a girl with the background that she has should probably have more street smarts and common sense, but because of the situation she is in, and the strained relationship with her dad and mom, Ricki's actions aren't THAT hard to swallow. And yeah, I'm being vague here because I don't wish to spoil.
Ricki as a character was very well developed, as was her father. What I liked about Ricki's dad was that he was a parental figure with his heart in the right place, even if his past actions didn't exactly demonstrate that. To his credit he is genuinely trying to make amends to Ricki for not being around. And now that he is stepping up to the plate and has come on board as a dad, limited as his experience is, he has FULLY come on board. Ricki's dad is a DAD, not a friend, not a buddy, a DAD. That's important because Ricki has always been more of a parent to herself than her mom ever was. And it also helps to create conflict between an independent, headstrong daughter and a stubborn yet well meaning father.
Whereas Ricki and her dad are both fleshed out characters, I found Ian, the 'skip,' to be a little lacking in that department. Ian is an interesting character for sure. He's been let down by every adult he's ever known and as a result he has lost all respect for them and the law. Ian has become a master manipulator and will do whatever he thinks he needs to do to survive. Ian has very little trust in anyone and that does make him a somewhat sympathetic figure. But even with those bits of insight into his personality, I couldn't help but feel like his character lacked depth. Ian had loads of potential but ultimately fell short with me, which was disappointing.
Chasing the Skip is a fast read, the pacing was handled well. I also really liked Janci Patterson's smooth writing style. I wouldn't call it poetic or lyrical, but it was authentic and easy to read. As far as action goes, there are tense moments in Chasing the Skip, but if you are looking for all out action and adventure Dog, The Bounty Hunter style, I think you will be disappointed. In fact the portrayal of the life of a bounty hunter isn't what you'd find on your favorite TV show or on film. And this felt authentic to me. You know when you watch a cop show on TV it's a whole lot of action and on the go crime solving? But you know in reality there is a bunch of boring paperwork involved, mundane stake outs and false leads. That is sort of what Chasing the Skip reminded me of. It's not the slick dramatic look at the life of a bounty hunter, instead it felt more like the real life version of what the job really entails. Lots of driving from place to place to look for somebody. Apprehending suspects without a crazy car chase or dangerous foot race (although there is an instance of both in the book.) Picking up routine skips, like a serial drunk who keeps forgetting to make his court dates.
While I appreciated the non-Hollywood version of the job, I have to say it was also a tad disappointing. It would've been cool for a little more action, and I think that is something that many readers might be expecting. But this all goes back to the fact that Chasing the Skip wasn't written as an action/ adventure kind of book. And it wasn't written as a 'dangerous romance' kind of book. There are elements of both included, but Chasing the Skip is really a book about families. What constitutes a family and what it takes to maintain a family. And Janci Patterson does a very good job writing THAT story.
So in summary, if you like contemporary dramas that are well paced, have only a smidgen of action but much more tension, are a bit lighter on the romance and more focused on family relationships, than I think you will enjoy Chasing the Skip from debut author Janci Patterson.
April 24, 2014
This review is also available on www.ThinkyRead.com. Check out the blog for more awesome, thought-provoking book analyses!
I can't make up my mind with this book. I picked it up from Amazon after listening to Janci's guest appearance on my favorite Podcast, Writing Excuses. The plot sounded interesting and I do like YA, so I gave it a try. However, as I said... I still don't know how I feel about it.
Unlike a lot of YA I read, this one sounded really... young. I enjoyed Ricki's voice and found her to be an interesting character. Her obsession with lists is fun and the way she reports on the world as though she's writing an unbiased report introduced some really interesting and creative ways to tell the story. Ironically this was my favorite way to experience Ricki's emotions.
What bothers me is this: As we will discuss on Wednesday, the protagonist in young adult fiction is often a couple years older than the target audience and either acts a little younger than they are or a little older. Ricki managed to act both.
Ricki and her Dad
Ricki's story was interesting enough to pull me through from beginning to end, but it didn't keep me from wishing, praying that she would just OPEN HER EYES and realize objectively (like a good reporter) everything her Dad is doing for her. Instead she's constantly in denial.
Ricki and her father obviously have a rocky relationship. The poor girl wasn't blessed with great parents, so I understand why she doesn't trust him, or like him, or want him. I also understand why she felt like he didn't want her around either.
Maybe I don't exactly empathize with Ricki as well as I could have because I've known for every moment of all of my nineteen years that my parents love me more than just about anything else in this world. But not only does Ricki think her dad doesn't want her, she tries to convince herself of that.
And that's exactly what 15 year-olds do!
We all did it: “I'm 15 now, lived a long time, and know how the world works. Obviously, if point A is fact (My dad never cared enough to be in my life for 15 years) than point A is ALWAYS fact no matter what. Just because dad is showing interest now doesn't mean he loves me or wants me. I don't know what it means, but it can't mean that.” It's funny how that's a completely normal thought process for kids. And it's sad how very destructive it is.
Running to Destruction
Of course Ricki becomes enamored with the gorgeous, flirty, totally-using-you skip that her Dad catches. How easy to get her way when she acts up in the worst way possible?
At first I thought it was odd how easily Ricki let herself be swayed by this mysterious, very dangerous man, but then I got to thinking about myself.
I used to think that I could somehow control the world. I knew what I wanted and why I wanted it and made all sorts of plans for how I could “take control of my own life.” But I never had the guts to act on them. I never even had the guts that Ricki had to step out of line. But it's what I wanted to do.
In that context, it makes complete sense why Ricki would run off with a strange, dangerous guy to get her way. She hates where she is and she's not exactly thinking about the consequences. But what I like about Ricki is that she is always mindful of the consequences whether she realizes or not.
She's 15 *Spoiler Warning*
As I mentioned earlier, Ricki doesn't act her age. For most of the book she's acting like a winy thirteen year old, moaning about her life, her dad, her boyfriend, or anything she can find to complain about. Sure, most of it was motivated by the unrest of living with her dad, but seriously, by the end as it became more and more obvious that her mom wasn't coming back, could she stop!? Maybe her Dad was supposed to get annoyed with her, but the readers? I doubt it.
On the other hand, the scene with Ricki and Ian late in the book, just before the climax is NOT suited for 13 year olds to read. In my opinion it didn't fit with Ricki's mental maturity at all. This is where I feel she acts a couple years older than she is. And maybe that's the point. Maybe Janci wanted to contrast her age and actual maturity. She does point out that Ricki was not ready for what this boy had in mind and maybe one point of the scene was to help Ricki to understand her own age.
Not to make anyone feel awkward, but I thought I'd point out that the scene gave off the “sex vibe.” Janci is good at sensory writing and reading it can make a person's heart pound even though nothing actually happens. That's why it's so dangerous.
I wouldn't mind handing my thirteen year old this book if it weren't for the fear that my she would enjoy that scene enough to start looking for more of it at far too young an age. At thirteen kids don't have such a great filter for that kind of thing and can easily get themselves in way over their heads way way too early. But maybe this is all just me.
*Spoiler Warning End*
Conclusion:
This was an okay read, but I wouldn't recommend it. My reasoning for that has little to do with the story and more to do with the content: The writing style and composition of the piece simply screams for 13-15-year-olds, but I wouldn't hand it to my daughter until she was at least 16.
I didn't find this book particularly deep as much as a stereotypical story told in a new setting. There's absolutely nothing wrong with that and, from a writing standpoint there are still a lot of things to learn from it. Character quirks, for instance. Janci pulled those off really well.
One Last Thing *Spoiler warning*
My absolutely favorite thing about this book is that Ricki and Ian didn't work out. This is what made it worth reading. Seeing a character stumble through a story like this, having all her actions lead her down the wrong path, then being redeemed by a father figure who was always watching out for her just made me happy.
*Spoiler Warning End*
This review is also available on www.ThinkyRead.com. Check out the blog for more awesome, thought-provoking book analyses!
I can't make up my mind with this book. I picked it up from Amazon after listening to Janci's guest appearance on my favorite Podcast, Writing Excuses. The plot sounded interesting and I do like YA, so I gave it a try. However, as I said... I still don't know how I feel about it.
Unlike a lot of YA I read, this one sounded really... young. I enjoyed Ricki's voice and found her to be an interesting character. Her obsession with lists is fun and the way she reports on the world as though she's writing an unbiased report introduced some really interesting and creative ways to tell the story. Ironically this was my favorite way to experience Ricki's emotions.
What bothers me is this: As we will discuss on Wednesday, the protagonist in young adult fiction is often a couple years older than the target audience and either acts a little younger than they are or a little older. Ricki managed to act both.
Ricki and her Dad
Ricki's story was interesting enough to pull me through from beginning to end, but it didn't keep me from wishing, praying that she would just OPEN HER EYES and realize objectively (like a good reporter) everything her Dad is doing for her. Instead she's constantly in denial.
Ricki and her father obviously have a rocky relationship. The poor girl wasn't blessed with great parents, so I understand why she doesn't trust him, or like him, or want him. I also understand why she felt like he didn't want her around either.
Maybe I don't exactly empathize with Ricki as well as I could have because I've known for every moment of all of my nineteen years that my parents love me more than just about anything else in this world. But not only does Ricki think her dad doesn't want her, she tries to convince herself of that.
And that's exactly what 15 year-olds do!
We all did it: “I'm 15 now, lived a long time, and know how the world works. Obviously, if point A is fact (My dad never cared enough to be in my life for 15 years) than point A is ALWAYS fact no matter what. Just because dad is showing interest now doesn't mean he loves me or wants me. I don't know what it means, but it can't mean that.” It's funny how that's a completely normal thought process for kids. And it's sad how very destructive it is.
Running to Destruction
Of course Ricki becomes enamored with the gorgeous, flirty, totally-using-you skip that her Dad catches. How easy to get her way when she acts up in the worst way possible?
At first I thought it was odd how easily Ricki let herself be swayed by this mysterious, very dangerous man, but then I got to thinking about myself.
I used to think that I could somehow control the world. I knew what I wanted and why I wanted it and made all sorts of plans for how I could “take control of my own life.” But I never had the guts to act on them. I never even had the guts that Ricki had to step out of line. But it's what I wanted to do.
In that context, it makes complete sense why Ricki would run off with a strange, dangerous guy to get her way. She hates where she is and she's not exactly thinking about the consequences. But what I like about Ricki is that she is always mindful of the consequences whether she realizes or not.
She's 15 *Spoiler Warning*
As I mentioned earlier, Ricki doesn't act her age. For most of the book she's acting like a winy thirteen year old, moaning about her life, her dad, her boyfriend, or anything she can find to complain about. Sure, most of it was motivated by the unrest of living with her dad, but seriously, by the end as it became more and more obvious that her mom wasn't coming back, could she stop!? Maybe her Dad was supposed to get annoyed with her, but the readers? I doubt it.
On the other hand, the scene with Ricki and Ian late in the book, just before the climax is NOT suited for 13 year olds to read. In my opinion it didn't fit with Ricki's mental maturity at all. This is where I feel she acts a couple years older than she is. And maybe that's the point. Maybe Janci wanted to contrast her age and actual maturity. She does point out that Ricki was not ready for what this boy had in mind and maybe one point of the scene was to help Ricki to understand her own age.
Not to make anyone feel awkward, but I thought I'd point out that the scene gave off the “sex vibe.” Janci is good at sensory writing and reading it can make a person's heart pound even though nothing actually happens. That's why it's so dangerous.
I wouldn't mind handing my thirteen year old this book if it weren't for the fear that my she would enjoy that scene enough to start looking for more of it at far too young an age. At thirteen kids don't have such a great filter for that kind of thing and can easily get themselves in way over their heads way way too early. But maybe this is all just me.
*Spoiler Warning End*
Conclusion:
This was an okay read, but I wouldn't recommend it. My reasoning for that has little to do with the story and more to do with the content: The writing style and composition of the piece simply screams for 13-15-year-olds, but I wouldn't hand it to my daughter until she was at least 16.
I didn't find this book particularly deep as much as a stereotypical story told in a new setting. There's absolutely nothing wrong with that and, from a writing standpoint there are still a lot of things to learn from it. Character quirks, for instance. Janci pulled those off really well.
One Last Thing *Spoiler warning*
My absolutely favorite thing about this book is that Ricki and Ian didn't work out. This is what made it worth reading. Seeing a character stumble through a story like this, having all her actions lead her down the wrong path, then being redeemed by a father figure who was always watching out for her just made me happy.
*Spoiler Warning End*
This review is also available on www.ThinkyRead.com. Check out the blog for more awesome, thought-provoking book analyses!
June 16, 2017
Sometimes you just don't enjoy a book. I was asking myself why I kept reading it, but I always believed it was going to get better. When will I learn?
It was immature...even for a teen book. The girl was a whiner and complainer and nobody wanted her. Ok ok. I get it. Blah blah blah. It was just boring. The blurb sounded so good and then the book was such a let down.
Oh well...on to the next!
It was immature...even for a teen book. The girl was a whiner and complainer and nobody wanted her. Ok ok. I get it. Blah blah blah. It was just boring. The blurb sounded so good and then the book was such a let down.
Oh well...on to the next!
February 21, 2013
This book was a trip...get it trip..no ok then LOL Review coming soon ^_^
EDIT 2/20/13
Ricki’s dad is a bounty hunter who chases fugitives that he calls “Skips”. Which is becomes ironic when Ricki’s mom skips out on her. Does her dad try to find her mom? No. He makes her go on his hunts with him, which is fine by her b/c she always dreamed of going with him. But the thing is, she doesn’t want to be a burden to him and wants to leave. When he dad’s next skip is a 17 year old boy, Ricki decides she doesn’t want to leave anymore. She wants to get his story. The more she talks to him the more she likes him. And as she gets closer to Ian, the more things go wrong. Is Ricki in control or falling for Ian’s game?
This book threw me for a loop. By the description on the back I thought I had it all figured out. This book was crazy good. Not in the top 10, but it’s high on the list. It makes you think about your life, about the future and that sometimes you can’t do things on your own. Maybe, just maybe you need a shoulder to lean on. I watched Ricki and it reminded me of well me. :D Not with the bounty hunter dad, but with her mom. No. my mom never left, but she chooses a guy over me. This book touched a deep part of me and I will always remember it. Ricki was a strong girl, not in most parts, but where it counted. This book goes to show you that you can’t always see the good in people….kinda like I do. Ricki and I were kinds the same in that that aspect. I know this is a stand alone, but I wouldn’t mind finding out what happens next with Ricki.
Ricki- Ricki is like any other 15 year old girl except her dad was never there for her and her mom ran out on her. She wants to be a journalist, which I think she will excel in. She had to grow up fast living with her mother. Under the circumstances I think she handled everything well. And I already stated that she reminded me of me when I was 15.
Ian- Let me just say he wasn’t what I expected and leave it at that.
Max AKA. Dad- Is a bounty hunter with a soft side. You never really know what’s going on with him until the end of the book. He is a hard man, but a good man. He needs the money so he takes what jobs he can get. He is a man that realizes the mistakes that he has made and wants to make up for it.
The Cover: I like the cover. No, it’s not the best cover I’ve ever seen, but I like it. The cover speaks volumes of what happens in the book. Ian with is hands cuffed and Ricki reaching out too help him.
EDIT 2/20/13
Ricki’s dad is a bounty hunter who chases fugitives that he calls “Skips”. Which is becomes ironic when Ricki’s mom skips out on her. Does her dad try to find her mom? No. He makes her go on his hunts with him, which is fine by her b/c she always dreamed of going with him. But the thing is, she doesn’t want to be a burden to him and wants to leave. When he dad’s next skip is a 17 year old boy, Ricki decides she doesn’t want to leave anymore. She wants to get his story. The more she talks to him the more she likes him. And as she gets closer to Ian, the more things go wrong. Is Ricki in control or falling for Ian’s game?
This book threw me for a loop. By the description on the back I thought I had it all figured out. This book was crazy good. Not in the top 10, but it’s high on the list. It makes you think about your life, about the future and that sometimes you can’t do things on your own. Maybe, just maybe you need a shoulder to lean on. I watched Ricki and it reminded me of well me. :D Not with the bounty hunter dad, but with her mom. No. my mom never left, but she chooses a guy over me. This book touched a deep part of me and I will always remember it. Ricki was a strong girl, not in most parts, but where it counted. This book goes to show you that you can’t always see the good in people….kinda like I do. Ricki and I were kinds the same in that that aspect. I know this is a stand alone, but I wouldn’t mind finding out what happens next with Ricki.
Ricki- Ricki is like any other 15 year old girl except her dad was never there for her and her mom ran out on her. She wants to be a journalist, which I think she will excel in. She had to grow up fast living with her mother. Under the circumstances I think she handled everything well. And I already stated that she reminded me of me when I was 15.
Ian- Let me just say he wasn’t what I expected and leave it at that.
Max AKA. Dad- Is a bounty hunter with a soft side. You never really know what’s going on with him until the end of the book. He is a hard man, but a good man. He needs the money so he takes what jobs he can get. He is a man that realizes the mistakes that he has made and wants to make up for it.
The Cover: I like the cover. No, it’s not the best cover I’ve ever seen, but I like it. The cover speaks volumes of what happens in the book. Ian with is hands cuffed and Ricki reaching out too help him.
September 29, 2012
Ricki's family is broken. Her dad is a bounty hunter who never seems to have enough time for her while her mom ran off and has since ignored her. Ricki isn't happy and feels like no one cares about her. She is at that critical age where she cares if someone isn't caring about her. When she meets Ian, as teen that her dad is hunting, she finds herself drawn to him, but is she mature enough to know Ian's true intentions?
Ricki is a different character than what I was used to. Half the time I felt bad for her, but the other half I thought she was acting selfishly. Her dad had buried himself in his work out of grief from losing his wife, and though this is not an excuse to ignore his daughter, it seemed like Ricki didn't give him a break. Ian is easy to see through. The reader will know that he isn't a "good kid" right away. Motivated by purely selfish reasons, he takes advantage of anyone to get ahead. The other characters were not overly significant, they moved the plot along, but were not focused upon.
The plot was very unique. This was one of the only books I have read for young adult fiction that involved bounty hunting, it was a very interesting topic. The characters took a little getting used to, but the reader will find that it is worth it in the end. The ending was incredibly satisfying, focusing more on Ricki's relationship with her father than on the terrible Ian. This book is recommended to young adult/teen readers.
Ricki is a different character than what I was used to. Half the time I felt bad for her, but the other half I thought she was acting selfishly. Her dad had buried himself in his work out of grief from losing his wife, and though this is not an excuse to ignore his daughter, it seemed like Ricki didn't give him a break. Ian is easy to see through. The reader will know that he isn't a "good kid" right away. Motivated by purely selfish reasons, he takes advantage of anyone to get ahead. The other characters were not overly significant, they moved the plot along, but were not focused upon.
The plot was very unique. This was one of the only books I have read for young adult fiction that involved bounty hunting, it was a very interesting topic. The characters took a little getting used to, but the reader will find that it is worth it in the end. The ending was incredibly satisfying, focusing more on Ricki's relationship with her father than on the terrible Ian. This book is recommended to young adult/teen readers.
March 7, 2014
4.5 stars, merely because this isn't usually the kind of book I read, so I didn't LOVE it the way I would have otherwise. But I'm giving it the official 5th star because so many of the other reviews are making me mad by rating it lower because it wasn't what they hoped it would be (a romance) when what it was, it did well. Maybe it's the marketing that's the issue?
Anyway, I read the whole thing in one day and got to a point where I couldn't put it down. This has strong characters, solid dialogue, a plot that keeps you guessing and doesn't slip into cliches.
Read it for the father–daughter relationship, for difficult family drama, for a coming-of-age story. Don't read it if you're looking for cute, or romantic, or fun. This is a serious book dealing with serious issues. If you know that going in, you'll be much better off.
Anyway, I read the whole thing in one day and got to a point where I couldn't put it down. This has strong characters, solid dialogue, a plot that keeps you guessing and doesn't slip into cliches.
Read it for the father–daughter relationship, for difficult family drama, for a coming-of-age story. Don't read it if you're looking for cute, or romantic, or fun. This is a serious book dealing with serious issues. If you know that going in, you'll be much better off.
February 15, 2013
Its her first book, but really good! I loved it! I seriously could'nt put it down.
January 26, 2018
I decided to read this book because I heard the author give a lecture at my university that was about writing and getting published, and I became interested in her. I found this first book of hers at a book sale and decided to pick it up based on my previous experience hearing her speak. This novel isn't really my style, and I wouldn't have picked it up otherwise, but I'm glad I gave it the chance and decided to read it.
We follow teen girl Ricki, who ends up on a road trip with her dad, who's a bail bond enforcement officer (read: bounty hunter). Her dad is on the hunt for a particularly dangerous criminal across the United States while Ricki is stuck tagging along, all the while wishing she could just go back home to her mom and friends in Utah. But when they pick up teen bad boy Ian, Ricki thinks she sees a good side to him even though he's being faced with several criminal charges. On their journey, Ian plays a few tricks up his sleeves, and Ricki is forced to learn what it really means to trust someone.
My biggest compliment for this book is that it's highly entertaining; it's fast paced and action packed, with exciting shenanigans around every corner. There was never a dull moment. However, I do feel like that made the story slightly unrealistic (though it sure was enjoyable).
Although this book is a fun read, it also tackles some darker themes. Ricki faces abandonment issues with both of her parents and she has to learn to stand up for herself and voice her feelings in the end. We see her go through a nice character development and come out better on the other side. The author also deals with alcoholism and how that addiction negatively impacts all aspects of your life.
Overall, I enjoyed this book, but it's not one I'll ever be rereading. It was a cute, fun story, but I do feel like the target audience is definitely teen girls, and I don't really fit into that group anymore.
You can read this review and others on my blog: http://mystoreysofstories.blogspot.co...
We follow teen girl Ricki, who ends up on a road trip with her dad, who's a bail bond enforcement officer (read: bounty hunter). Her dad is on the hunt for a particularly dangerous criminal across the United States while Ricki is stuck tagging along, all the while wishing she could just go back home to her mom and friends in Utah. But when they pick up teen bad boy Ian, Ricki thinks she sees a good side to him even though he's being faced with several criminal charges. On their journey, Ian plays a few tricks up his sleeves, and Ricki is forced to learn what it really means to trust someone.
My biggest compliment for this book is that it's highly entertaining; it's fast paced and action packed, with exciting shenanigans around every corner. There was never a dull moment. However, I do feel like that made the story slightly unrealistic (though it sure was enjoyable).
Although this book is a fun read, it also tackles some darker themes. Ricki faces abandonment issues with both of her parents and she has to learn to stand up for herself and voice her feelings in the end. We see her go through a nice character development and come out better on the other side. The author also deals with alcoholism and how that addiction negatively impacts all aspects of your life.
Overall, I enjoyed this book, but it's not one I'll ever be rereading. It was a cute, fun story, but I do feel like the target audience is definitely teen girls, and I don't really fit into that group anymore.
I thought I'd been in the position of power. But maybe I never had. Maybe the weapon didn't make Ian more dangerous. It just made the danger easier to see.
You can read this review and others on my blog: http://mystoreysofstories.blogspot.co...
August 1, 2017
3.5 stars. This book ended up being a lot more about Ricki's relationship with her father and a lot less about her relationship with Ian, which is not exactly what I was wanting. I really liked the parts with Ian and I was kind of bummed with how that all ended even though it's not like it really could have ended that differently. Family drama in books typically just doesn't interest me and this book was no different. I feel really bad for Ricki, because both of her parents really suck and she deserves better than that. I mean being abandoned by both parents is going to give her serious abandonment issues that she may never be able to work through. I really liked the stats at the beginning of each chapter and how they changed depending on what was most important to her at the moment. Stuff like that can get super gimmicky, but I really felt like in this book it added something to the story. This book was enjoyable enough, but it wasn't really what I was looking for.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 22, 2019
I’m not talented enough to review this without a few spoilers.
I love that this novel sets up as though the protagonist is going to have a romance with a skip, but does a 180 that is vital to the plot. We talk a lot about all kids needing to see themselves in books, but there aren’t a lot of books where the kid isn’t wanted by adults who should always want them.
That’s huge.
I love that this novel sets up as though the protagonist is going to have a romance with a skip, but does a 180 that is vital to the plot. We talk a lot about all kids needing to see themselves in books, but there aren’t a lot of books where the kid isn’t wanted by adults who should always want them.
That’s huge.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2018
I really liked the main character. Though at times she was a little too concerned with her boyfriend for my taste, she also had a mind of her own. Ricki never let anyone tell her what to do. And even when they did, she rarely followed their advice or instructions.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 12, 2020
This was a good book. The main character was insecure and had low self esteem. Not to mention abandonment issues. Because of that she made risky choices. She came across as genuine. My emotions were engaged in the story so it was satisfying when I got to the realistic ending.
August 24, 2020
Jancie, well done. I finally got to read your book. It kept me engaged and anxious as to what would happen next. Great jo. I love suspenseful novels.
March 4, 2020
Skipped is about a teenager whose mother has abandoned her and left her with a father she doesn’t know. She’s forced to deal with all the changes in her life while driving around with her father whose job is to find people who have “skipped” out on their bail. This is an enjoyable, well written, short story with realistic characters dealing with unusual circumstances. Suitable for teens and young adults.
October 2, 2012
This was the kind of contemporary story that really touched my heart. Ricki is on the road with the father she barely knows because her Mom took off and has been gone a month. Ricki's Mom has done this sort of thing before. But she is usually only gone for a week at a time and Ricki goes to her Grandmother's. Ricki is only fifteen but she is used to being the responsible one in their mother-daughter relationship.
Ricki's dad is a bounty hunter. When she was little, she used to make up stories about him and all the exciting things she thought he was doing. But when he never showed up to be part of her life, she decided that she would do just fine without a dad. Now they are stuck together in a truck while Ricki's dad goes after skips. The first one is a young woman who has skipped out on her child support. This gives Ricki a chance to think about her dad's treatment of her. He never missed his child support but he didn't provide any other sort of support.
The second skip that her dad goes after is a very different kind of case. Ian Burnham is only seventeen but he is wanted for car theft and other things her father won't tell her about. He and Ricki form a kind of relationship. He gives her the opportunity to defy her father but helping him. He escapes a couple of times either with Ricki's help or just because of her negligence. She even thinks about taking off with him to go looking for her mother. She wonders if her father would attempt to track her down when he has refused to try to find her mother.
Since Ricki has always been the responsible one before, this trip with her dad puts her in a dependent role and she isn't comfortable with it. She is constantly testing her dad. Both are uncomfortable with this new relationship and aren't really sure how to relate to each other. Ricki is afraid though she won't admit it. Her mom has left her. Her boyfriend isn't returning her emails and has dumped her for another girl. She wonders just how long it will be before this unknown father decides to dump her too.
I liked both Ricki and her father. Neither one was at all perfect. Both were realistic people with both strengths and flaws. I understood her father's reasons for not being a part of her life before. And I understood Ricki's reluctance to take a chance on him.
I think that my middle school and high school contemporary fans will enjoy this story because of the interesting characters and the unusual situation.
Ricki's dad is a bounty hunter. When she was little, she used to make up stories about him and all the exciting things she thought he was doing. But when he never showed up to be part of her life, she decided that she would do just fine without a dad. Now they are stuck together in a truck while Ricki's dad goes after skips. The first one is a young woman who has skipped out on her child support. This gives Ricki a chance to think about her dad's treatment of her. He never missed his child support but he didn't provide any other sort of support.
The second skip that her dad goes after is a very different kind of case. Ian Burnham is only seventeen but he is wanted for car theft and other things her father won't tell her about. He and Ricki form a kind of relationship. He gives her the opportunity to defy her father but helping him. He escapes a couple of times either with Ricki's help or just because of her negligence. She even thinks about taking off with him to go looking for her mother. She wonders if her father would attempt to track her down when he has refused to try to find her mother.
Since Ricki has always been the responsible one before, this trip with her dad puts her in a dependent role and she isn't comfortable with it. She is constantly testing her dad. Both are uncomfortable with this new relationship and aren't really sure how to relate to each other. Ricki is afraid though she won't admit it. Her mom has left her. Her boyfriend isn't returning her emails and has dumped her for another girl. She wonders just how long it will be before this unknown father decides to dump her too.
I liked both Ricki and her father. Neither one was at all perfect. Both were realistic people with both strengths and flaws. I understood her father's reasons for not being a part of her life before. And I understood Ricki's reluctance to take a chance on him.
I think that my middle school and high school contemporary fans will enjoy this story because of the interesting characters and the unusual situation.
December 27, 2012
Oh my! It looks like I'm having a bit of bad luck when it comes to books this week. I'm going to rate this one 3 stars because even though it was sort of good it wasn't what I expected and I'm left a little disappointed.
For what I've been reading in reviews after I finished I'm not the only one that expected some sort of cute story about a bad boy and a girl with family problems. And it was that, for the most part.
Ricki has some serious family problems. Her mother just went poof on her, her grandma doesn't want the burden if raising another teenager, and her dad has been missing most if her life working as a bounty hunter. Poor Ricki has some abandonment issues. Okay... some is an understatement.
With nowhere else to go, Ricki is stuck with her father-the-bounty-hunter. Since she was little she always thought of her father as hero chasing bad guys, but as it turns out things aren't quite like that, and now she has to chase skips with him, albeit reluctantly on his part.
It all changes though, when they have to go after Ian, a seventeen-year-old that skipped bail and has some shady charges on his record. Ian has a difficult family situation too, to say the least, and Ricki is intrigued by the boy with the cute smile and the criminal record. More than she should probably be.
Ricki passed as naive and immature sometimes, doing stupid things and acting like a five-year-old. And for what? She only ended getting herself and her father in a shitload of trouble. But she had a funny voice and I found myself laughing and snorting at her antics.
Chasing the Skip was sometimes funny, sometimes a little heartbreaking and with a fair share of twists and turns. I was actually really surprised around the end with how things turned out to be, and really disappointed in Ian. He really isn't what he seems to be, and it made me sad.
While Chasing the Skip wasn't what I expected and I'm left a little disappointed with it all, it still was a good enough read, and Ricki's funny remarks were good to keep me going. It surprised me, but sadly not for the better.
It's a debut novel, and while it might not have been good enough for me, this author is certainly promising. I look forward to reading more of her work; she has a good hand for humor from what I saw in this book.
For what I've been reading in reviews after I finished I'm not the only one that expected some sort of cute story about a bad boy and a girl with family problems. And it was that, for the most part.
Ricki has some serious family problems. Her mother just went poof on her, her grandma doesn't want the burden if raising another teenager, and her dad has been missing most if her life working as a bounty hunter. Poor Ricki has some abandonment issues. Okay... some is an understatement.
With nowhere else to go, Ricki is stuck with her father-the-bounty-hunter. Since she was little she always thought of her father as hero chasing bad guys, but as it turns out things aren't quite like that, and now she has to chase skips with him, albeit reluctantly on his part.
It all changes though, when they have to go after Ian, a seventeen-year-old that skipped bail and has some shady charges on his record. Ian has a difficult family situation too, to say the least, and Ricki is intrigued by the boy with the cute smile and the criminal record. More than she should probably be.
Ricki passed as naive and immature sometimes, doing stupid things and acting like a five-year-old. And for what? She only ended getting herself and her father in a shitload of trouble. But she had a funny voice and I found myself laughing and snorting at her antics.
Chasing the Skip was sometimes funny, sometimes a little heartbreaking and with a fair share of twists and turns. I was actually really surprised around the end with how things turned out to be, and really disappointed in Ian. He really isn't what he seems to be, and it made me sad.
While Chasing the Skip wasn't what I expected and I'm left a little disappointed with it all, it still was a good enough read, and Ricki's funny remarks were good to keep me going. It surprised me, but sadly not for the better.
It's a debut novel, and while it might not have been good enough for me, this author is certainly promising. I look forward to reading more of her work; she has a good hand for humor from what I saw in this book.
January 25, 2016
I was really excited about this book. I've never read a book about a bounty hunter, and one with a teenage girl tagging along sounded awesome. It just sounded so Charley Davidson like I was waiting for her butt-kicking grim reaper self to drag Reyes into the picture with her. Sadly, I was thoroughly disappointed.
As I said in my last post, I was at a camp at an amazing place for a little while. Before I actually got to go to the place we were staying, a few other people and I who came early stayed at this little almost plantation place. I saw the pictures before I went and it looked gorgeous. All antiques and wonderfulness. Very old looking. May I just say, FALSE ADVERTISING PEOPLE.
Now the reason I bring that up is because I feel like a lot of books have been doing that to. They make it look all glamorous, then you read the thing and you are just shaking your head in pity/sadness. I am sad to admit that this book was like that. It sounds like an awesome book, with a good old fashioned cliche bad boy and good girl. I was like, "Behold! A summer cliche I can say I liked even though it's been used many times!!!"
Anyways, this book was more about solving daddy-daughter issues. I would have still read it I think, but I would have different expectations that would have made this book better to me, I believe. However I came in with different ideas of this book and was severely disappointed.
Another thing that made me very sad about this book was the main character, Ricki. She was just... boring. She really was. It felt more like watching this book through the eyes of some drunk guy who was just at a constant up and down but with the same annoying thought track. She was a really static character. I do not like static characters at all. I like seeing how certain situations can change the way a person thinks and feels.
I usually try to find something I like about the books I didn't enjoy, but I just... nothing. Nothing at all. The plot repeats itself at a few points, so It's like someone hit reverse and gave that exact scene a different ending.
So if you are dying of boredom and this happens to be the only book you have, go for it. Its small and no challenge and a good way to burn time, but that's all i ave to say for this book.
As I said in my last post, I was at a camp at an amazing place for a little while. Before I actually got to go to the place we were staying, a few other people and I who came early stayed at this little almost plantation place. I saw the pictures before I went and it looked gorgeous. All antiques and wonderfulness. Very old looking. May I just say, FALSE ADVERTISING PEOPLE.
Now the reason I bring that up is because I feel like a lot of books have been doing that to. They make it look all glamorous, then you read the thing and you are just shaking your head in pity/sadness. I am sad to admit that this book was like that. It sounds like an awesome book, with a good old fashioned cliche bad boy and good girl. I was like, "Behold! A summer cliche I can say I liked even though it's been used many times!!!"
Anyways, this book was more about solving daddy-daughter issues. I would have still read it I think, but I would have different expectations that would have made this book better to me, I believe. However I came in with different ideas of this book and was severely disappointed.
Another thing that made me very sad about this book was the main character, Ricki. She was just... boring. She really was. It felt more like watching this book through the eyes of some drunk guy who was just at a constant up and down but with the same annoying thought track. She was a really static character. I do not like static characters at all. I like seeing how certain situations can change the way a person thinks and feels.
I usually try to find something I like about the books I didn't enjoy, but I just... nothing. Nothing at all. The plot repeats itself at a few points, so It's like someone hit reverse and gave that exact scene a different ending.
So if you are dying of boredom and this happens to be the only book you have, go for it. Its small and no challenge and a good way to burn time, but that's all i ave to say for this book.
August 16, 2012
For most of her life, it’s just been Ricki and her mom, and that’s the way Ricki likes it. But when her mom takes off for an extended vacation, Ricki finds herself living with her father for the first time. As a bounty hunter, he’s always spent more time chasing down criminals evading parole than with her, and Ricki isn’t really too thrilled that he’s now back in her life. Why should she have to do homework while he goes after skips? She’d much rather be taking notes on this real life action, however unglamorous. Things get more complicated when Ricki’s dad starts chasing Ian Burnham. Ian’s not much older than Ricki, and there’s something about him that draws her to him and she’s starting to realize that things aren’t quite as black and white as they seem. Ian’s not just a criminal, her father isn’t just the absentee parent from her childhood, and Ricki’s not just along for the ride. For the first time, she’s going to take charge of her life, even if she doesn’t realize how much trouble she’ll cause.
When I first heard about Chasing the Skip, I thought the book would be about Ricki’s relationship with the young skip her dad is chasing, but while this does feature into the plot, I found that there’s really much more to the story. For me, Ricki’s story was about her relationship with her parents, and while that made the story less exciting in terms of action, it was still a good story nonetheless. I loved being able to read about Ricki’s past and especially how she reevaluates everything that’s happened to her once she understands more about who her mother and father are as people. Unfortunately, though, I found that I could never completely connect to Ricki’s story, in spite of how interesting it was, because she felt too emotionally distant at times, and this made the story have less impact overall. Despite this, Chasing the Skip is definitely a sweet and enjoyable read, though not necessarily in the way most readers would expect.
Chasing the Skip appeals to readers who also enjoyed All These Things I’ve Done by Gabrielle Zevin or are in any way intrigued by bounty hunting.
reposted from http://thebookmuncher.blogspot.com
When I first heard about Chasing the Skip, I thought the book would be about Ricki’s relationship with the young skip her dad is chasing, but while this does feature into the plot, I found that there’s really much more to the story. For me, Ricki’s story was about her relationship with her parents, and while that made the story less exciting in terms of action, it was still a good story nonetheless. I loved being able to read about Ricki’s past and especially how she reevaluates everything that’s happened to her once she understands more about who her mother and father are as people. Unfortunately, though, I found that I could never completely connect to Ricki’s story, in spite of how interesting it was, because she felt too emotionally distant at times, and this made the story have less impact overall. Despite this, Chasing the Skip is definitely a sweet and enjoyable read, though not necessarily in the way most readers would expect.
Chasing the Skip appeals to readers who also enjoyed All These Things I’ve Done by Gabrielle Zevin or are in any way intrigued by bounty hunting.
reposted from http://thebookmuncher.blogspot.com
September 21, 2012
I received this book from DAC ARC Tours for an honest review.
The reason I decided I wanted to read this book Is because I love watching TV shows about bounty hunters so I figured I would enjoy books about them too and boy was I right! Ricki is a 15 year old girl and one day her mom just up and leaves her. Now this isn’t totally uncommon because her mom disappears a lot but what’s different about this time is that her mother doesn’t come back this time and Ricki ends up having to tag along with her dad who just happens to be a bounty hunter!
I really enjoyed this book because you didn’t have to be bored through all kinds of back information, the book jumps right into the story and gives you information about the past as you go which I really like because it gives you a mix of both past and current.
Imagine one day your mom just up and leaves you and you suddenly have to go live with your dad who you haven’t seen in years and he just happens to be a bounty hunter. Yeah, I would feel like the world is ending and my life is over but Ricki just dealt with it like a champ. She liked being with her dad because she hadn’t seen him in so long but she’s also really upset with him for not being around for her.
There wasn’t much romance in this book, and even when there was it wasn’t that great because it kind of seemed like Ricki was almost being raped because she was enjoying it at first but then she got all scared and tried to run away so I didn’t much care for that but it was only a tiny part in the book so it didn’t factor too much in my rating.
I really enjoyed Ian’s character probably because I’m a sucker for a bad boy and you can tell I am because I fell for his tricks throughout the whole book too it was pretty bad I felt dumb when I finished reading and I wasn’t even the one chasing after him!
Overall Janci Patterson did a great job keeping bounty hunting in words interesting which you think would be hard but again she did an awesome job because this book was like a breeze which is something I really needed, 4 out of 5 stars is my rating!
The reason I decided I wanted to read this book Is because I love watching TV shows about bounty hunters so I figured I would enjoy books about them too and boy was I right! Ricki is a 15 year old girl and one day her mom just up and leaves her. Now this isn’t totally uncommon because her mom disappears a lot but what’s different about this time is that her mother doesn’t come back this time and Ricki ends up having to tag along with her dad who just happens to be a bounty hunter!
I really enjoyed this book because you didn’t have to be bored through all kinds of back information, the book jumps right into the story and gives you information about the past as you go which I really like because it gives you a mix of both past and current.
Imagine one day your mom just up and leaves you and you suddenly have to go live with your dad who you haven’t seen in years and he just happens to be a bounty hunter. Yeah, I would feel like the world is ending and my life is over but Ricki just dealt with it like a champ. She liked being with her dad because she hadn’t seen him in so long but she’s also really upset with him for not being around for her.
There wasn’t much romance in this book, and even when there was it wasn’t that great because it kind of seemed like Ricki was almost being raped because she was enjoying it at first but then she got all scared and tried to run away so I didn’t much care for that but it was only a tiny part in the book so it didn’t factor too much in my rating.
I really enjoyed Ian’s character probably because I’m a sucker for a bad boy and you can tell I am because I fell for his tricks throughout the whole book too it was pretty bad I felt dumb when I finished reading and I wasn’t even the one chasing after him!
Overall Janci Patterson did a great job keeping bounty hunting in words interesting which you think would be hard but again she did an awesome job because this book was like a breeze which is something I really needed, 4 out of 5 stars is my rating!
February 6, 2013
After reading 200 pages of this novel, I gave up and skimmed the rest. I'm glad I did because from the reviews I've read about this, I didn't miss much. Chasing The Skip had an interesting story line and okay idea, I was hoping to like it. But instead I was left with very stiff, annoying characters and a very disorganized story. There isn't anything that stood out to me in a good way because I couldn't get over the way Ricki acts throughout the whole story.
Ricki, throughout the books constantly changes her age from acting like a fifteen year-old to acting like a three year-old, to a ten-year old who has a crush on an older boy. At first, I thought this part was kind of cute, the relationship between Ian and Ricki is blooming and it's cute until it started to get annoying and stupid. What I really dislike about this book is that Ricki feels the need to impress Ian and change herself just so that he'll like her. I find that very stupid and not a very good message to send out to readers who might think that this is the case. The way she is around isn't the most annoying part of the book or even the character.
The most annoying part has to be how easily the author skips over the serious things that has happened to the father. I think that if Janci Patterson had explored the father and his situation that is his past a lot more, I could have enjoyed the relationship between him and Ricki. I was left feeling frustrated that I didn't know very much about the dad and his past life, or any of the characters for that matter. Ricki's best friend and boyfriend seem like ink on paper and nothing more.
With all of that been said, that wasn't anything that I liked about this book. I wouldn't recommend this book for anyone just because after reading this book, I felt cheated and left very disappointed.
Ricki, throughout the books constantly changes her age from acting like a fifteen year-old to acting like a three year-old, to a ten-year old who has a crush on an older boy. At first, I thought this part was kind of cute, the relationship between Ian and Ricki is blooming and it's cute until it started to get annoying and stupid. What I really dislike about this book is that Ricki feels the need to impress Ian and change herself just so that he'll like her. I find that very stupid and not a very good message to send out to readers who might think that this is the case. The way she is around isn't the most annoying part of the book or even the character.
The most annoying part has to be how easily the author skips over the serious things that has happened to the father. I think that if Janci Patterson had explored the father and his situation that is his past a lot more, I could have enjoyed the relationship between him and Ricki. I was left feeling frustrated that I didn't know very much about the dad and his past life, or any of the characters for that matter. Ricki's best friend and boyfriend seem like ink on paper and nothing more.
With all of that been said, that wasn't anything that I liked about this book. I wouldn't recommend this book for anyone just because after reading this book, I felt cheated and left very disappointed.
October 11, 2012
My Thoughts: So, I've had this on my TBR pile for a while and every time I glanced at it, I thought it was titled Chasing The Ship, so in my mind I thought it was about ships. Boy was I wrong! LOL
We are introduced to Ricki who always lived with her mom, until one day she doesn’t anymore. Her mom takes off and she ends up having to spend time with her father, on the road. He’s a bounty hunter (more or less) and she’s stuck with him finding people and throwing them into jail.
It’s pretty entertaining and boring at the same time. They are surviving in this tiny trailer that really isn't much of a home for a teenage girl. Ricki is fascinated by skips.
And then it all begins, her dad agrees to go pick up a boy not much older than her. He’s in trouble for stealing cars and Ricki automatically feels for him. She even bonds with him, but he’s too much trouble for this girl.
I never really liked Ian. I knew from the start he was trouble and usually I go for the bad boys but I just didn't like him very much. He wasn't really smooth or didn't have the charm.
Chasing The Skip was an entertaining enough read and I did really enjoy Ricki and seeing how she dealt with what has become her life. This novel left me wanting more though. I just didn't like how it tied up and I wasn't quite sold yet.
Overall: Probably more of a 3.5 cupcake rating for me, but since I don’t do half cupcakes, can’t do that. I liked Ricki and I liked certain aspects of the book but I wasn't completely sucked in like usual.
Cover: Like it, like the handcuffs. At least now I know it’s not titled Chasing The Ship. HEHE.
What I'd Give It: 3/5 Cupcakes
______
Taken From Princess Bookie
www.princessbookie.com
We are introduced to Ricki who always lived with her mom, until one day she doesn’t anymore. Her mom takes off and she ends up having to spend time with her father, on the road. He’s a bounty hunter (more or less) and she’s stuck with him finding people and throwing them into jail.
It’s pretty entertaining and boring at the same time. They are surviving in this tiny trailer that really isn't much of a home for a teenage girl. Ricki is fascinated by skips.
And then it all begins, her dad agrees to go pick up a boy not much older than her. He’s in trouble for stealing cars and Ricki automatically feels for him. She even bonds with him, but he’s too much trouble for this girl.
I never really liked Ian. I knew from the start he was trouble and usually I go for the bad boys but I just didn't like him very much. He wasn't really smooth or didn't have the charm.
Chasing The Skip was an entertaining enough read and I did really enjoy Ricki and seeing how she dealt with what has become her life. This novel left me wanting more though. I just didn't like how it tied up and I wasn't quite sold yet.
Overall: Probably more of a 3.5 cupcake rating for me, but since I don’t do half cupcakes, can’t do that. I liked Ricki and I liked certain aspects of the book but I wasn't completely sucked in like usual.
Cover: Like it, like the handcuffs. At least now I know it’s not titled Chasing The Ship. HEHE.
What I'd Give It: 3/5 Cupcakes
______
Taken From Princess Bookie
www.princessbookie.com
October 26, 2012
The Story-
Ricki's mom has left her alone, not for the first time, but definitely the longest. So long, that Ricki's absentee dad is brought into the picture, and Ricki finds herself tagging along with him as he hunts down dead beats.
The life of a bounty hunter isn't all glitz and glamour. Ricki is dragged along as her dad chases Ian Burnham, a hot guy her age. She can't help but be attracted to the dark eyed stranger, but what if he is as bad as her daddy says?
My Thoughts-
I found the book interesting because of the bounty hunting, however, it just wasn't extremely exciting. Truth is the book is more about the father and daughter relationship than anything else. Ricki has never spent time with her dad, and for all purposes he has only existed to pay child support. The road trip the two characters take is one of learning and growth. Both of them realizing that second chances are important.
Her dad doesn't chase down the really bad guys, so Ricki's not in any danger, and I didn't feel much plot tension. I think the most interesting question is, what happened to mom? It seemed strange to me that the dad wasn't more worried, and that Ricki didn't try harder to find her. Missing for a month? That's a long time. I'd be thinking mom was dead. We do find out what happened in the end, and it's pathetic, but it just sets up the obvious, that Ricki will stay with her dad.
The cover of the book hints at a teen romance, and that's what I expected, so when it didn't really emerge, I felt jilted. In all, the book is a good, simple read. It felt more upper middle grade than anything, and it really delves into the parent/child relationship. It is well written and does tell a tale I haven't read before, which is always a plus.
Ricki's mom has left her alone, not for the first time, but definitely the longest. So long, that Ricki's absentee dad is brought into the picture, and Ricki finds herself tagging along with him as he hunts down dead beats.
The life of a bounty hunter isn't all glitz and glamour. Ricki is dragged along as her dad chases Ian Burnham, a hot guy her age. She can't help but be attracted to the dark eyed stranger, but what if he is as bad as her daddy says?
My Thoughts-
I found the book interesting because of the bounty hunting, however, it just wasn't extremely exciting. Truth is the book is more about the father and daughter relationship than anything else. Ricki has never spent time with her dad, and for all purposes he has only existed to pay child support. The road trip the two characters take is one of learning and growth. Both of them realizing that second chances are important.
Her dad doesn't chase down the really bad guys, so Ricki's not in any danger, and I didn't feel much plot tension. I think the most interesting question is, what happened to mom? It seemed strange to me that the dad wasn't more worried, and that Ricki didn't try harder to find her. Missing for a month? That's a long time. I'd be thinking mom was dead. We do find out what happened in the end, and it's pathetic, but it just sets up the obvious, that Ricki will stay with her dad.
The cover of the book hints at a teen romance, and that's what I expected, so when it didn't really emerge, I felt jilted. In all, the book is a good, simple read. It felt more upper middle grade than anything, and it really delves into the parent/child relationship. It is well written and does tell a tale I haven't read before, which is always a plus.
November 29, 2012
Posted to Almost Grown-up:
Chasing the Skip is a prime example of why you should strive to go into a novel without any preconceptions. My expectation: a book with a little swoon… perhaps a bad boy with a heart of gold playing the love interest.
I was wrong.
Our main character Ricki is, in a lot of ways, a typical teenager. She thinks of herself as more of an adult than she really is. She’s a little vulnerable, which she hides by way of snark. She’s lived with her mom all of her life and her dad has just barely maintained a position at the edge of the picture. Now she’s supposed to accept his authority over her? Not likely.
That element of her thinking she’d smarter than she really is made it real tough to sympathize with her. She kept making terrible decisions. It wasn’t until she let that vulnerability creep through a bit more, that my feelings for Ricki softened.
I did enjoy getting to know her dad and, though I agreed with Ricki that he should have been around more, I sympathized far more with him than I did her. That’s one of the things that comes from reading some YA novels from this side of 20 I suppose. There’s not a whole lot of crossover potential in Chasing the Skip.
What it really comes down to is that my feelings about the books are lukewarm. It has a unique-enough premise, but the prose and characters missed that essential spark that I felt I needed.
To sum up: A lighthearted novel that skips the froth of romance to focus on a father/daughter relationship. A quick and easy read.
Chasing the Skip is a prime example of why you should strive to go into a novel without any preconceptions. My expectation: a book with a little swoon… perhaps a bad boy with a heart of gold playing the love interest.
I was wrong.
Our main character Ricki is, in a lot of ways, a typical teenager. She thinks of herself as more of an adult than she really is. She’s a little vulnerable, which she hides by way of snark. She’s lived with her mom all of her life and her dad has just barely maintained a position at the edge of the picture. Now she’s supposed to accept his authority over her? Not likely.
That element of her thinking she’d smarter than she really is made it real tough to sympathize with her. She kept making terrible decisions. It wasn’t until she let that vulnerability creep through a bit more, that my feelings for Ricki softened.
I did enjoy getting to know her dad and, though I agreed with Ricki that he should have been around more, I sympathized far more with him than I did her. That’s one of the things that comes from reading some YA novels from this side of 20 I suppose. There’s not a whole lot of crossover potential in Chasing the Skip.
What it really comes down to is that my feelings about the books are lukewarm. It has a unique-enough premise, but the prose and characters missed that essential spark that I felt I needed.
To sum up: A lighthearted novel that skips the froth of romance to focus on a father/daughter relationship. A quick and easy read.
March 5, 2013
First let me start off by saying that this cover is really great and it intrigued me completely. It's the reason I wanted to read the book. I almost thought this would be a budding romance between the hunted and the hunter, but really I think this book focused more on family.
We meet Ricki who is now spending time with her father because her mom left and hadn't come back yet. He's a bounty hunter and decides to take her along after all he has to do his job. During this trip they try and kindle a relationship that they never really had. While on this job her father is out to get Ian, someone who is dangerous and not one of his usual skips, but he went with it anyway. Ricki starts to feel a pull toward him but I don't think it has to do with anything physically just that he is not wanted by his family as much as she feels she isn't wanted by her family.
It takes a couple tries but eventually Ricki realizes that sometimes having something is better than having nothing. Her relationship with her father is up and down in this book, especially when she decides to never follow his rules, but he's no better for putting her in this type of danger either. It's all very much trying to fit two puzzle pieces together and they just don't go.
The overall book was okay, not what I was expecting at all, was hoping it went a different way but still glad that I finally got a chance to read it. Hope you will enjoy it if you give it a try.
We meet Ricki who is now spending time with her father because her mom left and hadn't come back yet. He's a bounty hunter and decides to take her along after all he has to do his job. During this trip they try and kindle a relationship that they never really had. While on this job her father is out to get Ian, someone who is dangerous and not one of his usual skips, but he went with it anyway. Ricki starts to feel a pull toward him but I don't think it has to do with anything physically just that he is not wanted by his family as much as she feels she isn't wanted by her family.
It takes a couple tries but eventually Ricki realizes that sometimes having something is better than having nothing. Her relationship with her father is up and down in this book, especially when she decides to never follow his rules, but he's no better for putting her in this type of danger either. It's all very much trying to fit two puzzle pieces together and they just don't go.
The overall book was okay, not what I was expecting at all, was hoping it went a different way but still glad that I finally got a chance to read it. Hope you will enjoy it if you give it a try.
Read
December 30, 2012Ricki is used to her mother taking off. Usually it's after she meets a new boyfriend, and she's back before long. This time it has been weeks since Ricki has seen her mom. Staying with her grandmother isn't too bad, but this time her grandmother calls for reinforcements. Ricki's dad shows up to pick her up.
The story Ricki's been told is that her dad left before Ricki's mom even knew she was pregnant. Since then he has sent regular child support payments and stopped by a few times, but he certainly hasn't made an effort to develop a relationship with his only daughter. Now he's taking Ricki to live with him wherever that is.
Ricki soon discovers that life with her father might provide some excitement. He is a bounty hunter, and she's about to ride along as he chases another skip. It might not be so bad hanging out with him while she waits for her mother to return. With his attention focused on finding the bail skipper, Ricki plans to practice her journalism skills writing entries on her blog describing every minute of the adventure.
Debut author Janci Patterson has created a fast-paced, wild ride through Colorado, Nebraska, Iowa, and Wyoming. Ricki and her father get to know one another as they track down criminals who haven't made their court appearances. Ricki's often impetuous, immature behavior complicates the chase and even puts her life in danger. The turn of each page promises some new twist or turn. I can't wait to see what Patterson writes next.
The story Ricki's been told is that her dad left before Ricki's mom even knew she was pregnant. Since then he has sent regular child support payments and stopped by a few times, but he certainly hasn't made an effort to develop a relationship with his only daughter. Now he's taking Ricki to live with him wherever that is.
Ricki soon discovers that life with her father might provide some excitement. He is a bounty hunter, and she's about to ride along as he chases another skip. It might not be so bad hanging out with him while she waits for her mother to return. With his attention focused on finding the bail skipper, Ricki plans to practice her journalism skills writing entries on her blog describing every minute of the adventure.
Debut author Janci Patterson has created a fast-paced, wild ride through Colorado, Nebraska, Iowa, and Wyoming. Ricki and her father get to know one another as they track down criminals who haven't made their court appearances. Ricki's often impetuous, immature behavior complicates the chase and even puts her life in danger. The turn of each page promises some new twist or turn. I can't wait to see what Patterson writes next.
June 12, 2013
Ricki has been abandoned by her mother. Now she's stuck riding shotgun while her father, a bounty hunter, catches criminals. Her father has never been a huge part of her life, and Ricki doesn't really appreciate having to be stuck with him right now. She has a best friend and a boyfriend that she's left behind and is anxious to get back to. Who knows what her boyfriend is up to while she's gone? But her mom will be back any day now. All Ricki has to do is wait it out.
Then her dad picks up Ian, a car thief who is about the same age as Ricki. Of course Ricki can't help but feel some attraction to this dangerous boy, going as far to disobey her father. But then, she tries to do that at every turn.
This is a quick read. Ricki seemed very childish to me at times, but then I could also see how far into denial about her mother she was. Her dad issues weren't hard to connect with, and you could see her father straining to try to understand his daughter. Ian was a no good punk, and I really like the way the author ended whatever was going on with him and Ricki. The back flap and the cover (especially) are misleading because you might think it's a love story between her and the boy, but really, this is a book about Ricki learning to trust in her father. A father who wasn't there for her as a child, but wanted to be there now, at least for the next three years until she left for college.
So, if you're looking for a quick summer read, this is definitely one of them!
Then her dad picks up Ian, a car thief who is about the same age as Ricki. Of course Ricki can't help but feel some attraction to this dangerous boy, going as far to disobey her father. But then, she tries to do that at every turn.
This is a quick read. Ricki seemed very childish to me at times, but then I could also see how far into denial about her mother she was. Her dad issues weren't hard to connect with, and you could see her father straining to try to understand his daughter. Ian was a no good punk, and I really like the way the author ended whatever was going on with him and Ricki. The back flap and the cover (especially) are misleading because you might think it's a love story between her and the boy, but really, this is a book about Ricki learning to trust in her father. A father who wasn't there for her as a child, but wanted to be there now, at least for the next three years until she left for college.
So, if you're looking for a quick summer read, this is definitely one of them!
April 23, 2013
Chasing the Skip. By: Seglin, Shannon, School Library Journal, 03628930, Nov2012, Vol. 58, Issue 11.
Chasing the Skip PATTERSON, Janci. 228p. CIP. Holt/Christy Ottaviano. 2012. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-8050-9391-9; ebook $9.99. ISBN 978-0-8050-9637-8. LC 2012006164.
Gr 8 Up-Ricki's mom has run off, and the 15-year-old finds herself with her estranged father, who is a bounty hunter. He makes a living chasing parole evaders, also known as "skips," across the United States. Ricki believes he abandoned her as a child, and now she is in for the ride of her life as her father starts chasing an attractive 17-year-old felon who gets away from them several times. As she gets to know Ian, she finds herself attracted to his take-charge attitude. She thinks she can help him escape and that he can help her find her mom and refuses to believe that he is dangerous until it is almost too late. In the end, she learns some enlightening truths about her parents and about herself. Chasing the Skip is really a novel about a father and daughter giving each other a second chance for reconciliation and a new lease on life. Many teens will relate to Ricki's challenge as she tries to figure out where she belongs on the road of life.
By Shannon Seglin, Formerly at Patrick Henry Library, Vienna, VA
Chasing the Skip PATTERSON, Janci. 228p. CIP. Holt/Christy Ottaviano. 2012. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-8050-9391-9; ebook $9.99. ISBN 978-0-8050-9637-8. LC 2012006164.
Gr 8 Up-Ricki's mom has run off, and the 15-year-old finds herself with her estranged father, who is a bounty hunter. He makes a living chasing parole evaders, also known as "skips," across the United States. Ricki believes he abandoned her as a child, and now she is in for the ride of her life as her father starts chasing an attractive 17-year-old felon who gets away from them several times. As she gets to know Ian, she finds herself attracted to his take-charge attitude. She thinks she can help him escape and that he can help her find her mom and refuses to believe that he is dangerous until it is almost too late. In the end, she learns some enlightening truths about her parents and about herself. Chasing the Skip is really a novel about a father and daughter giving each other a second chance for reconciliation and a new lease on life. Many teens will relate to Ricki's challenge as she tries to figure out where she belongs on the road of life.
By Shannon Seglin, Formerly at Patrick Henry Library, Vienna, VA
February 10, 2013
I really loved this book. Ricki is now one of my favorite characters.
When Ricki and Ian grew closer I was a bit confused. I was wondering how, in the span of a few days, they got more attracted to one another. Being two years apart in age, I knew that Ian had a slight advantage. It didn't really surprise me when Ian used her as an escape route to prison.
The conversations between Ricki and her father were serious and humorous. I liked how she was clever and reserved towards him. It was a shock to learn that he made some bad mistakes in life too.
I had my suspicions on her mother of never returning, and my hunches were correct. It was really sad how she couldn't love her daughter enough to even say goodbye.
It warmed my heart when I read that her father was going to make an effort to keep Ricki in his life. They will both get a second chance at bonding together as father and daughter.
Ricki's boyfriend, Jamie, was questionable when Ricki doubted him in the first place. If she didn't trust him enough to stay out of other girls' clutches while she was gone, how could she trust him at all? I mean, if you really trust your boyfriend, then you wouldn't need to have your best friend check up on him. It just wasn't meant to be between them.
This book touched my heart. I cried while reading it, being the sappy person I am. Haha.
When Ricki and Ian grew closer I was a bit confused. I was wondering how, in the span of a few days, they got more attracted to one another. Being two years apart in age, I knew that Ian had a slight advantage. It didn't really surprise me when Ian used her as an escape route to prison.
The conversations between Ricki and her father were serious and humorous. I liked how she was clever and reserved towards him. It was a shock to learn that he made some bad mistakes in life too.
I had my suspicions on her mother of never returning, and my hunches were correct. It was really sad how she couldn't love her daughter enough to even say goodbye.
It warmed my heart when I read that her father was going to make an effort to keep Ricki in his life. They will both get a second chance at bonding together as father and daughter.
Ricki's boyfriend, Jamie, was questionable when Ricki doubted him in the first place. If she didn't trust him enough to stay out of other girls' clutches while she was gone, how could she trust him at all? I mean, if you really trust your boyfriend, then you wouldn't need to have your best friend check up on him. It just wasn't meant to be between them.
This book touched my heart. I cried while reading it, being the sappy person I am. Haha.
June 19, 2013
On the surface, Janci Patterson’s debut novel, Chasing the Skip, is about the adventures the father/daughter team of bounty hunters get into on the road. And it’s quite effective in that regard, with the right amount of action and danger to keep the story moving forward and keeping it lively.
Yet what sets this novel apart is that there’s so much more to it than just the budding Bonnie and Clyde story. The importance of family bonds, or lack there of, is portrayed throughout the novel. Ricki’s mother abandons her, and her father, who has never been there before, is suddenly there to care for her. Meanwhile, mothers of criminals turn them in to the law, cousins protect cousins, and siblings turn on one another. Ricki sees all of this from the cab of father’s truck, with various skips chained to the floor in captivity.
That doesn’t mean this is solely a family drama that will turn off teen readers. If anything, I think that how relatable it is to many teens will draw them in closer to the story, and make the action all the more exciting.
For a more in dept review of Chasing the Skip, check out The Debut Review.
Yet what sets this novel apart is that there’s so much more to it than just the budding Bonnie and Clyde story. The importance of family bonds, or lack there of, is portrayed throughout the novel. Ricki’s mother abandons her, and her father, who has never been there before, is suddenly there to care for her. Meanwhile, mothers of criminals turn them in to the law, cousins protect cousins, and siblings turn on one another. Ricki sees all of this from the cab of father’s truck, with various skips chained to the floor in captivity.
That doesn’t mean this is solely a family drama that will turn off teen readers. If anything, I think that how relatable it is to many teens will draw them in closer to the story, and make the action all the more exciting.
For a more in dept review of Chasing the Skip, check out The Debut Review.
September 9, 2012
I don't really know what it was that I expected from this story, but I am just so darn frustrated that this wasn't it. I have been anxiously awaiting Chasing the Skip for months, but I discovered very shortly into it that I was in for a surprise. I think what I expected from the synopsis would have been more of a romance with a young girl and bad boy skip that just happened to cross paths. What it seems I revealed actually was a head strong little girl that has had a rotten life. For years her father has been absent while working as a bounty hunter, but as of three weeks ago she is now traveling along side him after her Mother suddenly abandoned her with her Grandmother. This just dives right into the very dangerous and sketchy development of Ricki's situation. Being a fifteen year old girl; she is naive to the world and the true nature of criminals. When her Dad agrees to pick a young man with pretty hefty charges everything seems to spin out of control. This was not your good guy gone bad, or bad boy with a gentle side story. It was an all out desperate little girl, and a manipulative criminal. The story speeds through quickly, so it was no trouble to slide right through the end of the story, but I had just been hoping for something a little more exciting.
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