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All Things Different
Late in the summer of 2005, starkly independent Jake Thornton was on the verge of turning 16, expecting little more than his driver’s license in the fall, and the continuance of the quiet life shared with his father. So when 14-almost-15 year old Sara moved in next door and began vying for his father’s attention, Jake wasn’t exactly thrilled, and couldn’t quite understand his father’s motives for allowing it. But certainly he never anticipated the dramatic shift their lives would take as a result.
As the summer fades and autumn takes over, friendship between the two teenagers begins blossoming into a bond, until fate steps in once more, threatening to tear them apart as quickly as they’ve come together. The decisions that follow, and the emotive tale that results, opens Jake’s eyes to the simple yet life altering truth, a truth that Sara has understood all along: that love—not the feeling but the action—is the most powerful force in the world.
As the summer fades and autumn takes over, friendship between the two teenagers begins blossoming into a bond, until fate steps in once more, threatening to tear them apart as quickly as they’ve come together. The decisions that follow, and the emotive tale that results, opens Jake’s eyes to the simple yet life altering truth, a truth that Sara has understood all along: that love—not the feeling but the action—is the most powerful force in the world.
- GenresYoung AdultRomance
266 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 26, 2012
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
August 22, 2012
When I first started this book I will admit that I was a little hesitant and dubious. After lately reading lots of action and magic and fantasy recently, it took me a few chapters to adjust to the simplicity and descriptive slant of this book. It is very much set in the real world, with real characters and very real issues. However, once I had adjusted my brain and got used to the setting and the ways of the characters, I was utterly charmed and hooked. While at the beginning I was dragging my feet saying, 'I DON'T WANT TO hear about falling leaves and boat trips and the feeling of the sun on people's necks' by the end I was engrossed and felt like I knew the characters back to front and wanted to stay by the lake forever.
The setting of this book is gorgeous; it is largely set in a house made of logs (I imagined a log cabin but bigger) set amongst a clustered forest of pines where the needles make a carpet underfoot that lead you to a beautiful, crystal clear lake. I really felt relaxed and peaceful as I read the descriptions of the surroundings; the thought of little docks over blue water and the smell of pine and wood.
It's beautiful in that kind of melancholy. painful way too. Jake, the narrator of the story, speaks of his setting with reverence and awe, yet also sadness and despondency. The changing seasons and the bittersweet memories that accompany them are a big focus of this book and beauty does come with it's fair share of pain. You know that sadness you feel when summer is coming to an end? That feeling is portrayed beautifully by the author, reflected in the gorgeous descriptions of the transformation of summer to autumn,
'But nothing ever lasts, and summer always ends too soon. The leaves always turn first near the water, and each year when we saw them start we were always a little bit sad. It meant school for me and less time with my old man doing what I loved, and all we could do was watch helplessly as our favourite season passed on by. Almost overnight the colours would ignite and we loved that part very much, sometimes driving aimlessly on backroads or rowing across the lake just to be lost in the reds, the oranges, the yellows, and the countless variations between, all reflecting on the water so beautifully but still a little sadly.'
As well as falling in love with the melancholy prettiness of the surroundings in this novel, I also fell in love with the characters. It wasn't a passionate insta-love; at first I was a little wary of them and found Jake too awkward and Sara too pathetic and clingy. However, as I got to know them both, I began to care about them intensely without even knowing it. Seriously, one moment I was flicking through the pages thinking I wasn't quite connecting with them, and then suddenly I was halfway through and on tenterhooks ready to turn the page to find out what happens to them with tears in my eyes. Jake is quite a shy, awkward teenage boy who has always had a routine of fishing and building with his Dad and living alone in their isolated cabin, which means he has never really been exposed to girls and their many complexities before. When Sara and her mother roll up and rent out the only other cabin next to theirs, Jake is angry and feels as though his space has been invaded and his routine thrown upside down. However, over time Sara manages to insert herself firmly into his life whether he likes it or not. The way Sara gets under Jake's skin and makes him love her before he even knows what's happening was mirrored exactly by the effect these characters had on me; very slowly, they charmed me and made me care and slipped into my consciousness.
Sara is very fragile and damaged which were qualities I couldn't quite roll with at the beginning. I am used to reading books with strong heroines who don't need to be looked after by men. However, I realised as I was reading that it is not realisitic to expect every female character to be brave and strong; it wasn't because she was a woman that she was weak, but rather the way she had been treated and exploited in the past that made her so. She reminded me quite strongly of Anne from 'Anne of Green Gables' as she has been through a lot (some really horrendous abuse in Sara's case) and is quite damaged and lonely and needs people around her to chatter to and tell her dreams and imaginings too. She is like a ray of sunshine in Jake's, and his Dad's, lives, just as Anne is to Marilla and Matthew. Anne and Sara are the kind of people who demand love and force people to love them because they are so innocent and sweet and...lovable! Sara is much more needy and clingy than Anne, but then she has been through a lot more. I loved how she just came and rocked Jake's world and made him want to change his life for her. Whereas he had previously wanted a simple, builder's life, she changes that,
'She always smelled sweet and I enjoyed just being in the same room as her, even when she made me feel like mush when she stared or smiled or acted like I was better than I actually was. I hated that she could sway me so simply, shift my priorities and draw my attention when all I wanted to do was spend time with my old man or watch a ball game or, heaven forbid, relax quietly.'
I loved the awkwardness of their first encounters; there is definitely no insta love or rushing into anything romantic with these two. Instead, it is a sweet buildup of gaining mutual trust, of Jake trying to accommodate Sara in his life, and Sara being patient with him. I found Jake's reluctance and awkwardness very real and believable and his confusion at physical contact at first was very sweet,
'My breath came harder from her small weight on me. It was strange and wonderful and uncomfortable to have her there, and I did not want her to move.'
It was very lovely and subtle watching their relationship, and feeling the shift as Jake turns from irritation to indifference to like to love and finally to fierce loyalty and protection towards Sara. I found it to be a believable connection between them, although I did feel that as soon as Sara found out about Jake's existence, she decided she WOULD love him and make him love her. She needed someone, a man, who was nonthreatening and could cure her loneliness, and Jake was there. However, although I think she had already decided before she met him that she would attach herself to him, I think their subsequent connection felt very real.
Another character who needs to be mentioned is Jake's father. The relationship between Jake and his father is at the crux of the story, and it is wonderful. I had a lump in my throat on multiple occasions during this book, and it was usually because of the love and pride Jake's dad felt for both him and Sara, who he treats as his own daughter. He is a wonderful father without becoming cheesy or cringey. He has this air of solidity and largeness, that provides a solid base and a sense of safety and protection for Jake and Sara, which I thought the author portrayed beautifully, and which really moved me.
However, although there was a lot to love about this novel, I did find myself becoming quite irritated at times too. Most of my irritations revolved around the gender roles that are imposed upon the characters in this novel without question. Sara is very much placed in the domestic sphere, cooking their food and cleaning their floors, while the men 'circle hungrily'. The men are the towers of strength in this novel, while Sara is portrayed a tiny, naive, lighter-than-air doll. While Jake is physically able to protect Sara, emotionally and physically, she can do nothing for herself. Indeed, her options are described thus,
'Her prospective career choices consisted of, but were not limited to, interior decorating, fashion design, hair and makeup artist, singer, model, writer of magical stories, veterinarian, cheer coach, though she'd given up cheering herself.'
She does choose a career later in the novel, but one which is only chosen to make Jake's father happy and be somewhat useful to him. Women are very stereotypically portrayed as the shopping-loving, shallow, makeover-initiating, decorating, pink, fluffy creatures who Jake decribes as 'Barbie-ing' the lake house. They just seem rather silly and materialistic,
"What do you really want?" I said, expecting her to go off about a purse or a pair of shoes or something silly like that.'
In a way, I was OK with it because it reflected the naturally narrow-minded views of Jake, a boy whose mother died when he was very young and who has never really been exposed to women. However, as a woman who hates shopping and decorating and would definitely never be anyone's 'feminine touch', making them put the toilet seat down and take their muddy shoes off because all that matters in my life is a clean floor and an accessible toilet, it did grate on me quite a lot. I did appreciate that the end of the novel made the power balance a bit more even, but then I didn't like the letters right at the end. I just don't like devices such as letters or diary entries, but that's just personal taste. Sara also has an annoying habit of saying Jake's name at the end of every, single sentence. In a serious conversation, it would be awkward to say the other person's name that often. Oh, and Shaun please let your characters swear goddamit. 'Fah Q' is not a thing.
This is a subtle, beautiful and haunting novel set amongst the tall pines by the glassy lake. See, reading this book makes you want to be descriptive and whimsical. The characters go from a cold, awkward, socially inept teenage boy and a squealing, terrified, needy teenage girl to adults with fierce loyalty and love for each other, their family, and their home. After a shaky start, I adored it.
August 7, 2012
Innocent’s face a devastating past in a coming of age story! Charming, witty and full of surprises.
New Hampshire is known for some pretty famous writers; both old and new. Long ago, we (in NH) had poetry by Robert Frost and more recently thrillers like The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown. Lately, however, it appears New Hampshire’s indie self-published authors are taking the world by storm. Jessica Park has reached epic proportions with her best-seller Flat-Out Love, and now we are introduced to Shawn Underhill with All Things Different. Mr. Underhill graciously sent me a copy of his novel for review and I am so thankful he did as I was utterly shocked by its’ polish and wit. This is an incredibly charming “coming of age” tale.
All Things Different is completely different than the books I’ve been reading lately for many reasons. Often times you will read a book driven by descriptive pages that overwhelms you and is just too much depiction. This novel was so eloquent you could actually feel, smell and taste the scenes playing out before you. It stayed very close to that fine line of being too much narrative, but never once crossed over. The scenes are so well defined you experience the book rather than read it. The environment came alive for me through the authors phrasing of sights, smells and sounds alone. I could actually taste the bread and soup served up for dinner, hear the Loons calling in the background and feel the pine needles crunching underfoot. While the book is heavy on descriptions, the story is very well thought out and each character has a role to play in the way it develops.
The characters themselves are immediately endearing. Jake is very independent and seemingly straight forward. His life has been laid out in a way he is comfortable with and his expectations are pretty simple. He is very innocent to the ways of the world outside his sheltered existence. He and his father have a routine they live by and a relationship which is truly incredible. Enter the young Sara. Full of life and love, yet devastated by a treacherous past which should have destroyed her. She turns Jake’s world upside down with her past and her sometimes spastic tendencies. Rather than being whiny and emotionally unavailable though, you watch as she evolves into a very strong and independent person of her own with the encouragement and love of Jake and his father. You experience a ride where every character changes and develops independently yet they all face challenges together as a “family”. There are some deeply emotional scenes which will take your breath away but are mixed with light-hearted moments where you find yourself chuckling and grinning in entertainment. It’s a fantastic blend to a heavily dramatic story.
The story being so heavy on descriptives make the scenes between characters so refreshing and sometimes emotionally overwhelming-but in a very good way. By the second chapter, I was completely vested in this book and couldn’t seem to put it down. The backdrop of a New Hampshire lake and all the beauty and peace which surrounds it is simply breathtaking. While I would classify this as a drama, there is also an underlying love story which is unique in its own ways-I won’t explain further as you really have to experience it yourself to understand. I will say it’s not at all typical but very compelling and leave it at that.
Overall, this book was fabulous. When I finished it, I was left with my mouth hanging open by events I hadn’t expected, yet still feeling fully satisfied with how the story comes full circle and completes itself. Very well written, researched and thought out. I highly recommend this book to anyone in the mood for a drama you won’t be able to put down until you’ve read through to the end. I can’t wait to see what else Shawn Underhill has coming!
New Hampshire is known for some pretty famous writers; both old and new. Long ago, we (in NH) had poetry by Robert Frost and more recently thrillers like The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown. Lately, however, it appears New Hampshire’s indie self-published authors are taking the world by storm. Jessica Park has reached epic proportions with her best-seller Flat-Out Love, and now we are introduced to Shawn Underhill with All Things Different. Mr. Underhill graciously sent me a copy of his novel for review and I am so thankful he did as I was utterly shocked by its’ polish and wit. This is an incredibly charming “coming of age” tale.
All Things Different is completely different than the books I’ve been reading lately for many reasons. Often times you will read a book driven by descriptive pages that overwhelms you and is just too much depiction. This novel was so eloquent you could actually feel, smell and taste the scenes playing out before you. It stayed very close to that fine line of being too much narrative, but never once crossed over. The scenes are so well defined you experience the book rather than read it. The environment came alive for me through the authors phrasing of sights, smells and sounds alone. I could actually taste the bread and soup served up for dinner, hear the Loons calling in the background and feel the pine needles crunching underfoot. While the book is heavy on descriptions, the story is very well thought out and each character has a role to play in the way it develops.
The characters themselves are immediately endearing. Jake is very independent and seemingly straight forward. His life has been laid out in a way he is comfortable with and his expectations are pretty simple. He is very innocent to the ways of the world outside his sheltered existence. He and his father have a routine they live by and a relationship which is truly incredible. Enter the young Sara. Full of life and love, yet devastated by a treacherous past which should have destroyed her. She turns Jake’s world upside down with her past and her sometimes spastic tendencies. Rather than being whiny and emotionally unavailable though, you watch as she evolves into a very strong and independent person of her own with the encouragement and love of Jake and his father. You experience a ride where every character changes and develops independently yet they all face challenges together as a “family”. There are some deeply emotional scenes which will take your breath away but are mixed with light-hearted moments where you find yourself chuckling and grinning in entertainment. It’s a fantastic blend to a heavily dramatic story.
The story being so heavy on descriptives make the scenes between characters so refreshing and sometimes emotionally overwhelming-but in a very good way. By the second chapter, I was completely vested in this book and couldn’t seem to put it down. The backdrop of a New Hampshire lake and all the beauty and peace which surrounds it is simply breathtaking. While I would classify this as a drama, there is also an underlying love story which is unique in its own ways-I won’t explain further as you really have to experience it yourself to understand. I will say it’s not at all typical but very compelling and leave it at that.
Overall, this book was fabulous. When I finished it, I was left with my mouth hanging open by events I hadn’t expected, yet still feeling fully satisfied with how the story comes full circle and completes itself. Very well written, researched and thought out. I highly recommend this book to anyone in the mood for a drama you won’t be able to put down until you’ve read through to the end. I can’t wait to see what else Shawn Underhill has coming!
September 29, 2012
♥ Find my reviews on Blogger ~ Reviews by Bookish Sarah
- - -
All Things Different is the story of Jake and Sara. 15-year-old Jake is laid back, independent, and enjoys the quiet life he lives with his father. 14-year-old Sara is a damaged girl with terrible secrets.
The book opens up to Sara and her mother moving in next door to Jake and his father. At first, Jake isn't too thrilled. Sara seems too clingy and irritating for him to handle. Eventually, though, Sara manages to break him down and work her way into his daily life (as well as his heart).
In time, Jake helps Sara move on from things that happened in her past. Life is going great for their makeshift family - that is, until someone shows up to ruin everything.
- - -
I have to say, this book surprised me. I honestly had no idea going into it that it was really about a very serious subject. It was much heavier than I ever imagined. I think the book was written very well and the story was beautifully told.
Dislikes:
* A lot of the dialogue between Sara and Jake was sort of lackluster. I think Jake was the problem here. He gives way too many one-word answers. Maybe this was done to demonstrate the difference between he and Sara's personalities? Even so, it made Jake seem too monotonous and bored with all the conversations they were having.
* There were a few parts that seemed a bit sexist to me; things Jake would be thinking that truly bugged me. I wish I'd highlighted some specifics to quote, but I did not. It basically boils down to Jake making assumptions about Sara simply because of her gender. She's a girl so she must automatically only care about clothes, make-up, shoes, and shopping.
Likes:
* The characters were fantastic. Multidimensional, lovable, and real. The author did a great job of letting us get to know both Sara and Jake thoroughly. I also adored Jake's father. He was a truly inspiring character for a plethora of reasons.
* The romance is age appropriate. Sara is only 14, you know? The romance aspect of this book could have ended up being icky. Instead, it was perfection. Jake and Sara start of a little shaky, but quickly become friends. Friendship blossoms into an innocent and beautiful tale of first love. It's pure and it's sweet.
* Male POV. Like I always say, I love a YA with a male POV. This book was no exception. :)
* Underhill's descriptive writing is magnificent! I mean, it felt like I was right there with the characters. The setting was beautiful and the words used to describe it all were just lovely. Fantastic imagery.
Overall:
This is a book you shouldn't go into lightly. It isn't a fluff piece, and it's not a happily-ever-after in every way. It's about love and loss. Pain, suffering, sadness. It's about letting go of the things that hold you down. It's about moving on. The characters are wonderful and easy to relate to. The story moves along at a great pace. The author's writing is descriptive and beautiful. The setting is magical. The plot is filled with twists and turns, until everything wraps up almost-perfectly at the end. I think this is a great book and I definitely recommend it. It's serious. It's captivating. It's inspiring.
- - -
Book source: From the author
Publisher: Independently published
July 19, 2014
More Reviews Here: Readers Live A Thousand Lives
When I first read the summary for this book, I expected a light coming of age story. While I did get a coming of age story, it was also much more serious than I had initially anticipated. That did not make it bad, it was just a bit of a shock for me. While the book has its funny moments, the overall tone is very somber and serious. These two young teens have to deal with things that even adults should not have to deal with.
The book focuses on the lives of Jake and Sara. We meet them at the ages of 15 and 14 respectively. When Sara shows up, initially Jake is not thrilled to have her living next door. However, she manages to get under his skin and worm her way into his heart. Sara has had a difficult past, to say the least, and for some reason she takes to Jake and he helps her move on. They become extremely close and share a bond that is not easily broken. Now I know what you are thinking, they are only 15 and 14. Yes they are, and the author manages to show this bond in an appropriate manner for their age. They simply come to love each other as friends and over time that love grows.
Jake is very serious for a 15 year old and he is very independent. He is set in his ways and knows what he wants out of life. On the other hand, you have Sara who is exuberant and energetic and full of life, despite her past. The contrast between these characters was one of my favorite parts. Despite how different they seem, deep down they were exactly what each other needed and they did not even know it.
I must warn you though; this is not a story to be picked up lightly. As I have said before there are some very serious circumstances involved and while the characters may be young, I believe this book is geared more towards more mature readers. I do not think I would classify it as Young Adult even though the characters are young. This is not a light and fluffy read, but it is a good one.
As a whole I enjoyed the story and the plot moved along nicely, with twists and turns in all the right places. However, I do have one tiny complaint, and this might just be a “me” thing. At points the dialogue seemed to be very back and forth without any tags or descriptions in between. To me, it made the conversations seem very fast paced (and for some conversations that was okay, especially with Sara) and it was hard to follow who was saying what after a while. At certain points, I would have to go back and re-read the dialogue to make sure I got it right in my head. Like I said though, that might just be a preference thing. I tend to like tags in between the dialogue.
All in all if you are looking for something meaningful to read, then this is the book for you. The ending is heartbreaking and good all at once and will have you smiling through your tears.
*I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review
When I first read the summary for this book, I expected a light coming of age story. While I did get a coming of age story, it was also much more serious than I had initially anticipated. That did not make it bad, it was just a bit of a shock for me. While the book has its funny moments, the overall tone is very somber and serious. These two young teens have to deal with things that even adults should not have to deal with.
The book focuses on the lives of Jake and Sara. We meet them at the ages of 15 and 14 respectively. When Sara shows up, initially Jake is not thrilled to have her living next door. However, she manages to get under his skin and worm her way into his heart. Sara has had a difficult past, to say the least, and for some reason she takes to Jake and he helps her move on. They become extremely close and share a bond that is not easily broken. Now I know what you are thinking, they are only 15 and 14. Yes they are, and the author manages to show this bond in an appropriate manner for their age. They simply come to love each other as friends and over time that love grows.
Jake is very serious for a 15 year old and he is very independent. He is set in his ways and knows what he wants out of life. On the other hand, you have Sara who is exuberant and energetic and full of life, despite her past. The contrast between these characters was one of my favorite parts. Despite how different they seem, deep down they were exactly what each other needed and they did not even know it.
I must warn you though; this is not a story to be picked up lightly. As I have said before there are some very serious circumstances involved and while the characters may be young, I believe this book is geared more towards more mature readers. I do not think I would classify it as Young Adult even though the characters are young. This is not a light and fluffy read, but it is a good one.
As a whole I enjoyed the story and the plot moved along nicely, with twists and turns in all the right places. However, I do have one tiny complaint, and this might just be a “me” thing. At points the dialogue seemed to be very back and forth without any tags or descriptions in between. To me, it made the conversations seem very fast paced (and for some conversations that was okay, especially with Sara) and it was hard to follow who was saying what after a while. At certain points, I would have to go back and re-read the dialogue to make sure I got it right in my head. Like I said though, that might just be a preference thing. I tend to like tags in between the dialogue.
All in all if you are looking for something meaningful to read, then this is the book for you. The ending is heartbreaking and good all at once and will have you smiling through your tears.
*I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review
October 11, 2012
"Your heart aches because it's good."
Shawn Underhill is a master storyteller. I love the way he wrote the whole novel - the descriptions are vivid and you can just put yourself in the pages - feeling all those emotions and being in the places inside the book. The pacing is just enough to allow readers to sit back and watch not just the development of each characters, but watching relationship flourish as well.
The Characters
Jake is a likable character. A typical boy who didn't want girls around - especially when he had been living alone with his father for a couple of years. He's responsible, and has a good head on his shoulders. If there is one word that best describe him, it would be: pragmatic. I like how is character matured through the pages, although I wasn't sure when was the time that he really fell in love with Sara. It's almost like being a couple is already given since they were already friends. I think a little bit of sweet words, romantic gestures wouldn't hurt.
Sara has some heavy baggage to carry, but I love her resilience. The sudden change in her moods is understandable after what she's been through, but despite of it - she decides to live life and find something to be happy about. She found a home with Jake and his father. At a young age, she gave them a home which I greatly admire. I find her very sweet, and thoughtful. She's very persuasive and watching her make Jake putty in her hands is also entertaining.
Jake's Dad is the best father in the world! Just like an ordinary father, he is not vocal with his feelings, but he shows that he cares not only to Jake but to Sara and her mother as well. He's very helpful and generous to people who needs him the most. He is also hardworking, but he always makes sure he has time for Jake.
Finally, after a while - I had the time to read this book on my Kindle. It took me long but it was totally worth it. The whole story is in crescendo and ended in a beautiful finale that left me teary-eyed and satisfied. It may not end the way I wanted it to be, but it is just amazing as it is.
Disclaimer: Book reviewed was sent to me by the author and I have received no compensation of any kind for the review whether it is positive.
Shawn Underhill is a master storyteller. I love the way he wrote the whole novel - the descriptions are vivid and you can just put yourself in the pages - feeling all those emotions and being in the places inside the book. The pacing is just enough to allow readers to sit back and watch not just the development of each characters, but watching relationship flourish as well.
The Characters
Jake is a likable character. A typical boy who didn't want girls around - especially when he had been living alone with his father for a couple of years. He's responsible, and has a good head on his shoulders. If there is one word that best describe him, it would be: pragmatic. I like how is character matured through the pages, although I wasn't sure when was the time that he really fell in love with Sara. It's almost like being a couple is already given since they were already friends. I think a little bit of sweet words, romantic gestures wouldn't hurt.
Sara has some heavy baggage to carry, but I love her resilience. The sudden change in her moods is understandable after what she's been through, but despite of it - she decides to live life and find something to be happy about. She found a home with Jake and his father. At a young age, she gave them a home which I greatly admire. I find her very sweet, and thoughtful. She's very persuasive and watching her make Jake putty in her hands is also entertaining.
Jake's Dad is the best father in the world! Just like an ordinary father, he is not vocal with his feelings, but he shows that he cares not only to Jake but to Sara and her mother as well. He's very helpful and generous to people who needs him the most. He is also hardworking, but he always makes sure he has time for Jake.
Finally, after a while - I had the time to read this book on my Kindle. It took me long but it was totally worth it. The whole story is in crescendo and ended in a beautiful finale that left me teary-eyed and satisfied. It may not end the way I wanted it to be, but it is just amazing as it is.
Disclaimer: Book reviewed was sent to me by the author and I have received no compensation of any kind for the review whether it is positive.
September 13, 2012
I wasn't quite sure what to expect when I started reading All Things Different. This is labeled as a YA Contemporary and I don't tend to read a ton of books in this genre. It took me a couple chapters to settle in to the writing and the story but I was really pleasantly surprised by how I felt about this book.
I think I mostly enjoyed learning to love Sara through Jake's eyes. It is a process and involves all sorts of complications and emotions. As Jake learns more about Sara and her struggles he feels protective and responsible to help her. His feelings of love evolve over time and I really felt like I was a part of that journey with him.
This book is beautifully written. I could picture the scenery of the book so clearly. The lake, the house, the forest surrounding them. It was beautiful in my mind's eye. I love when a book can provide me with such clear pictures.
One of the things I loved in this book was how these two men accept and draw Sara and her mother into their family circle. While things seem to fall apart for Sara, I never had a completely hopeless feeling because I really believed in Jake and his Dad. They were solid and trustworthy and I knew they would be there for Sara. I guess it's the real feelings in this book that I connected with. All Things Different was a pleasurable read and a happy surprise for me.
I love the quote at the beginning of the Goodreads description because I feel like it helps sum up the book so well and explain the title. :)
"I know that the night is not that same as the day: that all things are different, that the things of the night cannot be explained in the day, because they do not then exist." ~ Ernest Hemingway
Content wise, there was some swearing and Sara and Jake sleep in the same bed together for most of the book. That "sleeping together" evolves into more than sleeping over time but it is never mentioned in the book or talked about. Sara has been abused so there are many difficult issues dealt with in this book.
I think I mostly enjoyed learning to love Sara through Jake's eyes. It is a process and involves all sorts of complications and emotions. As Jake learns more about Sara and her struggles he feels protective and responsible to help her. His feelings of love evolve over time and I really felt like I was a part of that journey with him.
This book is beautifully written. I could picture the scenery of the book so clearly. The lake, the house, the forest surrounding them. It was beautiful in my mind's eye. I love when a book can provide me with such clear pictures.
One of the things I loved in this book was how these two men accept and draw Sara and her mother into their family circle. While things seem to fall apart for Sara, I never had a completely hopeless feeling because I really believed in Jake and his Dad. They were solid and trustworthy and I knew they would be there for Sara. I guess it's the real feelings in this book that I connected with. All Things Different was a pleasurable read and a happy surprise for me.
I love the quote at the beginning of the Goodreads description because I feel like it helps sum up the book so well and explain the title. :)
"I know that the night is not that same as the day: that all things are different, that the things of the night cannot be explained in the day, because they do not then exist." ~ Ernest Hemingway
Content wise, there was some swearing and Sara and Jake sleep in the same bed together for most of the book. That "sleeping together" evolves into more than sleeping over time but it is never mentioned in the book or talked about. Sara has been abused so there are many difficult issues dealt with in this book.
July 30, 2012
Grade: A-
L/C Ratio: 40/60
(This means I estimate the author devoted 40% of his effort to creating a literary work of art and 60% of his effort to creating a commercial bestseller.)
Thematic Breakdown:
35% - Young love
30% - Facing tragedy
20% - Parenthood
15% - New England
With All Things Different, Underhill delivers an emotional and poignant novel that presents itself as a teenage love story and then morphs into something much deeper. The plot never strays from the three main characters, and Underhill's decision to use such a small cast pays enormous dividends. He builds authentic relationships that grow more complex over time, all described through the humorous voice of a young, yet very perceptive, first-person narrator.
Underhill's prose is polished and his dialogue always feels natural. The action and twists show up a little late in the novel, but when the pace of the plot does pick up, it carries the reader to a stirring conclusion.
As a native New Englander, one of the highlights of All Things Different was the book's setting. Underhill does an impressive job depicting the New Hampshire scenery and capturing the allure of lakeside life. It adds another dimension to his storytelling and blends in perfectly with his genuine characters and powerful plot.
Noteworthy Quote:
Below the surface there was more, different as the night is from the day, more than simply friendship or the feeling of being a couple at school or even of love itself. It was all that and more, something awkwardly sweet and confusing in its boundaries; something I can only describe as the slow realization of us, at home together, becoming a sort of patchwork family, one that had found one another by chance and now belonged together.
L/C Ratio: 40/60
(This means I estimate the author devoted 40% of his effort to creating a literary work of art and 60% of his effort to creating a commercial bestseller.)
Thematic Breakdown:
35% - Young love
30% - Facing tragedy
20% - Parenthood
15% - New England
With All Things Different, Underhill delivers an emotional and poignant novel that presents itself as a teenage love story and then morphs into something much deeper. The plot never strays from the three main characters, and Underhill's decision to use such a small cast pays enormous dividends. He builds authentic relationships that grow more complex over time, all described through the humorous voice of a young, yet very perceptive, first-person narrator.
Underhill's prose is polished and his dialogue always feels natural. The action and twists show up a little late in the novel, but when the pace of the plot does pick up, it carries the reader to a stirring conclusion.
As a native New Englander, one of the highlights of All Things Different was the book's setting. Underhill does an impressive job depicting the New Hampshire scenery and capturing the allure of lakeside life. It adds another dimension to his storytelling and blends in perfectly with his genuine characters and powerful plot.
Noteworthy Quote:
Below the surface there was more, different as the night is from the day, more than simply friendship or the feeling of being a couple at school or even of love itself. It was all that and more, something awkwardly sweet and confusing in its boundaries; something I can only describe as the slow realization of us, at home together, becoming a sort of patchwork family, one that had found one another by chance and now belonged together.
August 31, 2012
This is a beautifully written coming of age story that I think any lover of YA will really enjoy.
The author managed to transform the reader right into the world he created using rich detail that made you feel like you were right there breathing in the mountain air and walking along side the characters as their story unfolded.
The characters in this story felt very real to me. They were all loveable and endearing and made me wish I knew them too. I liked them all so much, I am not even sure I could pick a favorite.
Jake and Sara both grew a lot in this book mentally and emotionally. Nothing was ever completely simple or carefree, they dealt with problems that anyone of us could have. I love that even though Jake and his father were strangers to Sara in the beginning that they all grew to be very much a family unit.
And while the romance aspect wasn't all that I hoped it would be, I still really enjoyed the innocence and sweetness of it.
This story was very detailed and descriptive (sometimes a little too much so) but it was nicely written and I will be keeping my eye on this author for any of their future work because I think we can expect some great things from them in the future as well.
Overall I give this one a very well rounded 4 Stars!
July 23, 2012
5 stars Warm and beautiful! ~ I was reading in the comfort of my own room, but then I was somewhere else. Water lapping against the boat, branches swaying in the breeze, sunlight filtering through the leaves, I heard them whispering and I listened to the story they tried to tell. My mind was flooded with memories that had never once existed – memories that didn’t belong to me, yet the warmth with which they suffused me was as precious as any childhood memory should be.
When you go through hundreds of books, you may forget what they are all about, but this is the one that will remain in your heart and mind. You can’t help falling in love with these characters. They don’t exude love and hope. They ARE love and hope.
My note: I know “all things are different” because night lets certain things loose. When I wake up to the blazing sun, those feelings recede and I wonder if I were somebody else.
When you go through hundreds of books, you may forget what they are all about, but this is the one that will remain in your heart and mind. You can’t help falling in love with these characters. They don’t exude love and hope. They ARE love and hope.
My note: I know “all things are different” because night lets certain things loose. When I wake up to the blazing sun, those feelings recede and I wonder if I were somebody else.
June 30, 2012
3.5 to 4 Stars!
I was browsing through amazon when I came across this book then decided to give it a go. While a lot of things could have been explained clearer and some parts could have been better, not bad for a new author. I would have liked the actual relationship of Jake and Sara to be expounded more proficiently on the romance part. Also the ending just flew by so suddenly and felt a bit rushed. Otherwise a pretty good novel. The exuberance and resilence of youth is just amazing. The way Jake deals with Sara is well written, while at the same time keeping in ordinance with their ages. Hope to read more from this author. Oh and did I mention it was FREE for kindle? Can't beat that.
I was browsing through amazon when I came across this book then decided to give it a go. While a lot of things could have been explained clearer and some parts could have been better, not bad for a new author. I would have liked the actual relationship of Jake and Sara to be expounded more proficiently on the romance part. Also the ending just flew by so suddenly and felt a bit rushed. Otherwise a pretty good novel. The exuberance and resilence of youth is just amazing. The way Jake deals with Sara is well written, while at the same time keeping in ordinance with their ages. Hope to read more from this author. Oh and did I mention it was FREE for kindle? Can't beat that.
September 22, 2012
I am not really sure what I was expecting when I first started reading All Things Different. I know I never thought my heart would break for these characters as all of their lives changed that first summer.
Jake is a normal but really grounded 16 year old boy who lives a quiet life of fishing, swimming and helping his dad. He never expected his dad to let a single mom and her daughter move into the cabin next door. Soon after he meets Sara and starts to get to know her, he realizes that for some people life is far from perfect.
I have to say several times the plot totally took me by surprise. I cried and smiled along with Sara, Jake and his dad. All Things Different is an emotional YA journey of love and family that I think anyone will enjoy.
Jake is a normal but really grounded 16 year old boy who lives a quiet life of fishing, swimming and helping his dad. He never expected his dad to let a single mom and her daughter move into the cabin next door. Soon after he meets Sara and starts to get to know her, he realizes that for some people life is far from perfect.
I have to say several times the plot totally took me by surprise. I cried and smiled along with Sara, Jake and his dad. All Things Different is an emotional YA journey of love and family that I think anyone will enjoy.
September 18, 2012
"All Things Different" is a emotionally powerful teenage story that will capture you from the start. Mr. Underhill pens his characters strong, likeable and believable within a well written plot that will stay with you after your finished.
This review is based on a complimentary copy which was provided for an honest review.
This review is based on a complimentary copy which was provided for an honest review.
December 18, 2021
A lot of words to say, “I know how to purple some prose, Sara is cute, and Jake has a starvation fetish.”
November 25, 2012
If you want to see more of my reviews, check out my blog @ Moosubi Reviews!
I have to admit at the beginning of the book, I wasn’t too impressed. For one, I was a bit bored - the plot was pretty slow moving, and the characters didn’t seem like the types of people I didn’t see before. The romance was fluffy and cute, but in my opinion, overrated. Obviously, my opinion changed throughout the novel. I actually enjoyed this book quite a bit - I even teared up at the end! Even though I originally thought the characters were a bit dull, they definitely grew on me, and there was that warm fuzzy spot I got when I was reading about their sweet moments. I loved how they were always there for each other, and the hardships they went through together were very endearing! Lots of emotions eventually built up and swirled together to create a beautiful story!
One of the best parts of this novel for me was actually Jake’s father. In case you don’t know, this story is mostly told from Jake’s point of view, and his relationship with his father is one I wish I had with my parents. They really trusted and loved each other, and if he could, Jake would probably do everything with his father. Mr. Thornton’s character definitely grew on me, and I loved his personality! Overall, he did seem like a pretty unique character and a heartwarming one too.
Jake & Sara’s relationship also grows on you, eventually. I’m not a huge romance junkie, so seeing their relationship at first didn’t impress me all that much. However, they’re the type of super likable characters that you eventually form a mental bond with once you get into the groove of reading a story like this. However, if you’re a huge romance fan, you’ll definitely be a fan of their relationship, along with the large amounts of emotion that impressed me.
The downfall in my opinion however, is how the story starts. Once you get about midway, the plot gets a bit more exciting with more significant events, but I felt like the beginning of the novel was more mellow. I suppose I’m a bit impatient in this aspect, but they’re wasn’t really anything going on in the beginning that I was particularly attracted by, because again, I’m not a huge romance addict. Still, I believe that this start was meant for the readers to connect with the characters more, in order to build emotion until the big emotional finale in the end!
Overall, All Things Different is a heartbreaking and emotional story, filled with love, regret, heartbreak, and hope. If you’re a romance fan, you’ll definitely enjoy the sweet parts of this book, and combined with the loving familial aspects, a reader who is looking for a different kind of YA contemporary would also devour this book!
Source: Review copy provided by author.
I have to admit at the beginning of the book, I wasn’t too impressed. For one, I was a bit bored - the plot was pretty slow moving, and the characters didn’t seem like the types of people I didn’t see before. The romance was fluffy and cute, but in my opinion, overrated. Obviously, my opinion changed throughout the novel. I actually enjoyed this book quite a bit - I even teared up at the end! Even though I originally thought the characters were a bit dull, they definitely grew on me, and there was that warm fuzzy spot I got when I was reading about their sweet moments. I loved how they were always there for each other, and the hardships they went through together were very endearing! Lots of emotions eventually built up and swirled together to create a beautiful story!
One of the best parts of this novel for me was actually Jake’s father. In case you don’t know, this story is mostly told from Jake’s point of view, and his relationship with his father is one I wish I had with my parents. They really trusted and loved each other, and if he could, Jake would probably do everything with his father. Mr. Thornton’s character definitely grew on me, and I loved his personality! Overall, he did seem like a pretty unique character and a heartwarming one too.
Jake & Sara’s relationship also grows on you, eventually. I’m not a huge romance junkie, so seeing their relationship at first didn’t impress me all that much. However, they’re the type of super likable characters that you eventually form a mental bond with once you get into the groove of reading a story like this. However, if you’re a huge romance fan, you’ll definitely be a fan of their relationship, along with the large amounts of emotion that impressed me.
The downfall in my opinion however, is how the story starts. Once you get about midway, the plot gets a bit more exciting with more significant events, but I felt like the beginning of the novel was more mellow. I suppose I’m a bit impatient in this aspect, but they’re wasn’t really anything going on in the beginning that I was particularly attracted by, because again, I’m not a huge romance addict. Still, I believe that this start was meant for the readers to connect with the characters more, in order to build emotion until the big emotional finale in the end!
Overall, All Things Different is a heartbreaking and emotional story, filled with love, regret, heartbreak, and hope. If you’re a romance fan, you’ll definitely enjoy the sweet parts of this book, and combined with the loving familial aspects, a reader who is looking for a different kind of YA contemporary would also devour this book!
Source: Review copy provided by author.
November 4, 2013
This book is nothing like I expected it to be from reading the synopsis.
Sara's maturity level seems incongruous with teens of a similar age today, often times seeming like she's about eight or 10 years old especially in her communications with Jake. Other times acting more like an adult.
So what girl's mother would allow her almost 15-year-old daughter to move her clothes and other items into the bedroom of the teenage boy next-door? What young man's father would allow it? She moves in and Jake more or less happily, lets her change things about him.
Sara and Jake continually speak words of love to one another. She sleeps in the same bed as he and unbelievably nothing happens between them. Not that I want it to, but let's be realistic; they're not little kids.
Sara's maturity level seems incongruous with teens of a similar age today, often times seeming like she's about eight or 10 years old especially in her communications with Jake. Other times acting more like an adult.
So what girl's mother would allow her almost 15-year-old daughter to move her clothes and other items into the bedroom of the teenage boy next-door? What young man's father would allow it? She moves in and Jake more or less happily, lets her change things about him.
Sara and Jake continually speak words of love to one another. She sleeps in the same bed as he and unbelievably nothing happens between them. Not that I want it to, but let's be realistic; they're not little kids.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 17, 2013
I so enjoyed "All Things Different". A great emotional ride about relationships, good and bad, loyalty, family and love. This isn't an easy weekend read, you'd miss most of the undercurrents. The story is told through the eyes of a high school boy. Not a lot of dialogue, but lots of insight on peoples feelings and thoughts. You need to read this one with some Kleenex close by. I give it 5 stars and will be checking out more books by Shawn Underhill.
October 8, 2013
I wanted to give this book 5 stars, I really did. I loved the descriptive passages, I adored the characters and their relationships; particularly the relationship between Jake and his father. I just had to take a star off for the ridiculous gender stereotypes. Men apparently chop down trees and get sweaty - women cook and shop and just love pink! Eek! Still loved it though.
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