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Live to Tell
When Libby wakes up in the hospital, she’s told she’s going to be charged in an accident that has left an innocent victim clinging to life. But Libby can remember none of it. She can’t even remember the guy who keeps sending her flowers and acting like he’s her boyfriend.
With the help of her best friend, Libby pieces together the events of the tragic evening. As memories start trickling through, she begins to realize that what she’s been told may not be what happened at all. But is she prepared for a truth that is darker than the fiction?
With the help of her best friend, Libby pieces together the events of the tragic evening. As memories start trickling through, she begins to realize that what she’s been told may not be what happened at all. But is she prepared for a truth that is darker than the fiction?
170 pages, Paperback
First published January 9, 2012
10 people are currently reading
137 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
January 22, 2026
Book review 1
Question : What were the factors that moved you to choose this book?
Answer : Initially, I wasn’t interested in the book because of the cover, but of course you can’t judge a book by the cover. I then read the summary on the back and that's what got me hooked. Everything about the book looked well organized and well written, especially after the first couple pages I read. It is also at an appropriate reading level for me which isn’t super hard or too easy as I am in the middle. Overall, the summary on the back and the organization and reading level suit this book well for me.
Question : Now that you have had a chance to start the book, are you happy with your choice? Will you stick with this book? Why or why not?
Answer: I am happy with my choice and plan to stick to this book for 3 reasons.
Reason 1 : It has a good introduction and a good hook, and the author seems to have good writing experience and ideas. It is also my theme, I like thrillers and mysteries.
Reason 2: The plot is nicely made and the book has good cliff hangers, which is important because some books have cliff hangers that aren't good and reduce the experience of the book. On the good side, this book has really good cliff hangers and makes me want to read more.
Reason 3: The characters. I think the characters in the first couple of pages are cool to me and I am interested to learn more about them.
In conclusion, I plan to stick to this book and am happy with my choice.
Book review 2
Question : Who are the main character(s) involved in the story so far? Briefly describe each character in a paragraph and try to determine their motivations.
Answer :
Libby Thorne : Libby Thorne is the main character in the story. She is 16 and lives in Halifax Nova Scotia. She is known by a lot of people including her best friend Kasey who is around the same age. She is portrayed as a fairly typical 16 year old girl whose life is turned upside down by a traumatic event at the beginning of the story. She has many traits like emotionally complex, or even relatable. She is also determined to find the truth of what really happened to her at the beginning of the book.
Cal Mcinnis: Cal Mcinnis says he is Libby’s Boyfriend but she doesn’t remember him as her boyfriend because of the traumatic car accident. He is portrayed as quiet and somewhat mysterious at the start of the story but is also even loyal and caring as he brings Libby a lot of flowers and cards while she's in the hospital. He isn’t really known at the start of the story though.
Kasey : Kasey is likely to have been in part along with Cal in the whole car accident, but the truth isn’t fully told. Kasey is one of Libby’s best friends and goes to the same school as her.
She is morally questionable and even dominant. She is by Libby’s side throughout the start of the story and is likely to be for the whole story as the book's summary on the back states that Libby and Kasey try to figure out what happened the night of the car crash.
Question : Describe any secondary characters in the story. What role do they play in the story so far? Why are they important? How do they relate to the main character(s)?
Answer :
Libby’s parents : Her parents are very concerned for Libby at the story but play an important role in the story as they try to help uncover the mystery of what happened the night of Libby’s car crash. They also are important side characters trying to protect Libby from the pressure of detectives and the law that are trying to integrate Libby while she’s in the hospital recovering.
Classmates and friends : Libby’s classmates and friends are also important in the story as they are likely to have peer pressured Libby into drinking and doing other things causing her to drive and get into an accident which determined Libby’s fate.
Book review 3
Question : What is the conflict or problem in the story? What will need to happen to resolve this problem or conflict?
Answer : The main conflict in Live To Tell is focused on the loss of Libby Thorne’s memory after the car crash and she struggles to remember what happened. When she wakes up in the hospital, she’s told that she was in a serious car accident, unfortunately she doesn't remember what she did or the events leading up to it. This creates both an internal conflict and an external one. Internally, Libby feels confused and guilty. She also feels scared because she doesn’t know if she did something wrong. Externally, she faces pressure from the detectives, her friends, and even her helpful and concerned parents. Not knowing the truth makes it hard for Libby to trust others or even herself. In order to resolve this conflict, Libby needs to face the truth about the crash even if it’s painful. As the story goes on, she tries to piece together memories and realizes that avoiding the truth won’t help her move forward. The problem can only be resolved when Libby has to accept responsibility. By confronting the reality of the night of the accident, she will be able to begin to heal and even become more responsible. It is important for her to do all of this to move on.
Book review 4
Question : What personal experience have you had that relates to the characters or plot of this book? Describe your experience, and then describe the part of the book that relates to it. How are they similar?
Answer : A personal experience of mine starts off similar to the book. I had a traumatic experience when my dog died. It wasn’t traumatic but it’s something you remember and it relates to the story because of the following reasons.
Reason 1: Libby has a traumatic experience in a car crash and struggles to move forward
Reason 2: She is hurt physically, but also mentally which ties to me being hurt mentally.
Reason 3: She struggles to accept the fact that it happened where for a couple of weeks-months I did too.
In conclusion I feel like the experience of losing my dog can relate to the experience of Libby Thorne as we both share the same feelings, and emotions and struggle to accept the fact that the traumatic things that happened to us really happened.
Question : Did the author evoke strong feelings in you while reading? Describe the feelings that you had, and then describe what specific parts of the book made you feel that way.
Answer : Even though this question is asking about connecting, I can’t fully connect to all of the things in the book but I can connect to feeling of being lost or confused, and I can also connect to being scared just like Libby Thorne is. The reason I chose this question though was because the author evoked a strong feeling of excitement in me as I find this book really exciting to keep reading and seeing what’s next which may sound interesting but I am always excited to see what happens next in this book as the author did a good job making me hooked.
Book review 5
Question : What is the message, theme, or big idea of the story? Describe the theme, and then describe some things in the book that are working to make you think that way.
Answer : A major theme in Live to Tell is how the truth always comes out, even when people try to avoid it. The author doesn’t directly say this, but it becomes clear through Libby’s experience after the accident. Even though she can’t remember what happened, the unanswered questions and missing memories keep bothering her and pushing her to search for answers. The way different characters act also hints at this theme especially when some people avoid telling the full truth or change their stories. This makes the situation more stressful and shows how lying or hiding things only makes problems worse. By the end, it’s clear that honesty is the only way for Libby to move forward and start healing.
Question : How do you feel while reading the book? Describe your mood while reading, and then describe some things in the book that are working to make you feel that way.
Answer : I felt nervous and compassionate for Libby and almost felt like I was there going through everything with her. The story makes me feel like I’m alive in the universe of the story and I even felt scared. Some things in the book that made me feel that way were the turns and corners and out of the blue things that happened in the book where I learned in the accident she had hit a man who had suffered life threatening injuries. I also learned that at the beginning she had forgotten everything and the things in the story that remind her of what happened the night of the crash make me surprised. One of those things in the story that made me surprised was that she had a boyfriend who broke up with her the night of the crash whose name was Nate.
Book review 6
Question : Describe a scene in the book where a sensory image is used. What sense does the author appeal to? How does the sensory image work to give the reader a better sense of the characters?
Answer : One strong example of sensory imagery in Live to Tell is when Libby wakes up in the hospital after the crash. The author states things mostly to the sense of sight and touch by describing the bright lights, the white room, and the uncomfortable feeling of being hooked up to machines. Libby notices how unfamiliar everything feels, which helped me understand how lost and scared she is. The beeping sounds and the sterile hospital setting make the scene feel cold and even overwhelming. This sensory detail helps show Libby’s confusion and fear without directly saying it. By putting me in that moment with her, the author makes it easier to understand what Libby is going through emotionally.
Question : Describe a scene in the book where a sensory image is used in an extreme or shocking way. What sense does the author appeal to? What is the author’s goal in using this technique?
Answer : A shocking use of sensory imagery happens when Libby starts to remember parts of the car crash. The author mainly uses sound and feeling, like loud noises and the sudden impact to make the moment feel intense and confusing. This helped me understand how scary and overwhelming the crash was for Libby. The author uses this imagery to show how traumatic the experience was and why it stays with her.
Book review 7
Question : Please provide a detailed summary of the last full chapter you read for the weekly Goodreads book review. You may also choose a specific section of the book, or everything you’ve read to date.
Answer : In Chapter 10 of Live to Tell, Libby is taken from the hospital to the jail after the car accident. This happens while she is still injured and using crutches, which makes everything feel even more overwhelming. At the police station, she is photographed, weighed, measured, and fingerprinted by a constable. The whole process makes Libby nervous and uncomfortable, especially since she doesn’t fully understand why she has to be there. She becomes even more anxious when another prisoner is brought through the hallway, reminding her that she is in a real jail. Diane, Libby’s lawyer, stays with Libby the entire time to support her. Once everything is finished, Libby signs release papers and is allowed to go home, but she leaves feeling exhausted and shaken by the experience.
Book review 8
Question : Is this story age-appropriate? What are some elements that may be too advanced or too elemental for your age group? Why did the author choose to include these elements? How do they make you feel as the reader?
Answer : The story Live to Tell by Lisa Harrington is mostly age appropriate for a teen audience, but some parts feel more mature than what younger readers might be used to. The book deals with serious topics like fear, trauma, and difficult choices, which can be emotionally heavy at times. These elements might be challenging because they force you to think about real life dangers and consequences instead of simple, clear cut problems. At the same time, some moments are straightforward and easy to follow, especially when the focus is on relationships and everyday life, which helps balance out the heavier parts. I think the author chose to include these more advanced elements to make the story feel realistic and meaningful. Life isn’t always simple, and the characters' struggles reflect situations that real people might face, even if they are uncomfortable to read about. As a reader, these moments made me feel tense and sometimes uneasy, but they also helped me connect more deeply with the characters. Overall, the mix of mature themes and simpler moments makes the story more impactful and encourages readers my age to think more critically about the world around them.
Book review 9
Question : Vividly describe a character in your book. Provide details of both their physical appearance and their personality traits. Do you feel (like or dislike) anything about this character? Why or why not?
Answer : One character that stood out to me in Live to Tell is Libby, because the author makes her feel very real and believable. Physically, she isn't described in an exaggerated way which actually makes it easier to picture her as an everyday person rather than someone unrealistic. Her appearance feels normal and grounded, fitting the setting of the story and making it easier to imagine her walking around in real life. This makes the focus less about how she looks and more about what she is going through. Personality wise she comes across as cautious but strong, especially when facing stressful or frightening situations. She doesn't always have the answers and sometimes seems unsure which makes her more relatable. I mostly like her because her reactions feel honest and they experience fear and doubt but she still tries to push forward. That made me respect her more as the story went on since she is like a real person dealing with difficult circumstances rather than a perfect or fearless hero.
Book review 10
Question : Describe how you feel about a character in the book. If they were a real person, would you want to know them? Why or why not?
Answer : I feel mostly empathetic toward the main character because of how real and flawed they are. They don’t come across as someone who always knows what to do, and they make mistakes or hesitate when things get overwhelming. That actually made me connect with them more, since their reactions feel honest rather than exaggerated. Reading about their thoughts and fears helped me understand why they act the way they do, even when I didn’t always agree with their choices. If they were a real person, I think I would want to know them, but maybe not be extremely close. They seem like someone who has been through a lot and might be guarded at first, but also loyal and thoughtful once you earn their trust. I respect their resilience and the way they keep going despite fear and uncertainty. Overall, they feel like the kind of person who would be interesting to talk to because of their experiences and perspective on life.
Book review 11
Question: What do you think happens to the characters after the ending of the book? Provide a summary of the story after the end.
Answer : After the ending of the book, I imagine Libby slowly rebuilding her life with a much stronger sense of independence. Everything she goes through forces her to grow up quickly and by the end she understands her own strength more clearly. Even though the events of the story would stay with her for a long time I think she would finally feel a sense of relief knowing the truth is out. Moving forward, she would focus on healing and trying to regain a normal life, even if it takes time. As for Cal and Julia, I think their actions eventually catch up with them. Since they played such a major role in setting Libby up and trying to frame her it makes sense that they would face serious consequences, most likely jail time. I imagine their relationships and reputations falling apart once the truth is revealed. In the end, the story feels like it closes with justice being served while Libby is given a chance to move on from what they put her through.
Book review 12
Question : If you would recommend this book, what type of reader would you recommend it to? What are the main elements of this book that would make it interesting for others to read?
Answer : I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy suspenseful stories that are realistic and emotionally intense. It’s especially suited for teens who like mysteries or thrillers that focus more on characters and tension rather than constant action. Readers who are interested in stories set in real places, like Halifax and who don’t mind heavier themes would probably find it more engaging. The main elements that make this book interesting are the suspense, the twists in the plot, and the way the author builds tension through relationships between characters. The sense of being unsure who to trust keeps the story moving and makes you want to keep reading. The emotional side of the story also stands out, since it shows how fear, betrayal, and resilience affect the characters, which helps the book feel realistic and memorable.
Question : Who did the author write this book for? What were they hoping to get their readers to think about? Were they successful? Why or why not?
Answer : I think Lisa Harrington wrote Live to Tell mainly for a teenage audience, especially older teens who are ready to read about more serious and realistic situations. The book seems aimed at readers who can handle suspense and emotional tension, not just simple or lighthearted stories. Through the characters and the plot the author wants readers to think about trust, betrayal, and how quickly someone’s life can change because of the choices of others. I think the author was successful in getting these ideas across because the story makes you question who you can really trust and how easily the truth can be twisted. The situations the characters face feel believable, which makes the message more impactful. By the end of the book, it’s hard not to reflect on how fear and manipulation affect people, especially someone like Libby, which shows the author achieved what they were aiming for.
Question : What were the factors that moved you to choose this book?
Answer : Initially, I wasn’t interested in the book because of the cover, but of course you can’t judge a book by the cover. I then read the summary on the back and that's what got me hooked. Everything about the book looked well organized and well written, especially after the first couple pages I read. It is also at an appropriate reading level for me which isn’t super hard or too easy as I am in the middle. Overall, the summary on the back and the organization and reading level suit this book well for me.
Question : Now that you have had a chance to start the book, are you happy with your choice? Will you stick with this book? Why or why not?
Answer: I am happy with my choice and plan to stick to this book for 3 reasons.
Reason 1 : It has a good introduction and a good hook, and the author seems to have good writing experience and ideas. It is also my theme, I like thrillers and mysteries.
Reason 2: The plot is nicely made and the book has good cliff hangers, which is important because some books have cliff hangers that aren't good and reduce the experience of the book. On the good side, this book has really good cliff hangers and makes me want to read more.
Reason 3: The characters. I think the characters in the first couple of pages are cool to me and I am interested to learn more about them.
In conclusion, I plan to stick to this book and am happy with my choice.
Book review 2
Question : Who are the main character(s) involved in the story so far? Briefly describe each character in a paragraph and try to determine their motivations.
Answer :
Libby Thorne : Libby Thorne is the main character in the story. She is 16 and lives in Halifax Nova Scotia. She is known by a lot of people including her best friend Kasey who is around the same age. She is portrayed as a fairly typical 16 year old girl whose life is turned upside down by a traumatic event at the beginning of the story. She has many traits like emotionally complex, or even relatable. She is also determined to find the truth of what really happened to her at the beginning of the book.
Cal Mcinnis: Cal Mcinnis says he is Libby’s Boyfriend but she doesn’t remember him as her boyfriend because of the traumatic car accident. He is portrayed as quiet and somewhat mysterious at the start of the story but is also even loyal and caring as he brings Libby a lot of flowers and cards while she's in the hospital. He isn’t really known at the start of the story though.
Kasey : Kasey is likely to have been in part along with Cal in the whole car accident, but the truth isn’t fully told. Kasey is one of Libby’s best friends and goes to the same school as her.
She is morally questionable and even dominant. She is by Libby’s side throughout the start of the story and is likely to be for the whole story as the book's summary on the back states that Libby and Kasey try to figure out what happened the night of the car crash.
Question : Describe any secondary characters in the story. What role do they play in the story so far? Why are they important? How do they relate to the main character(s)?
Answer :
Libby’s parents : Her parents are very concerned for Libby at the story but play an important role in the story as they try to help uncover the mystery of what happened the night of Libby’s car crash. They also are important side characters trying to protect Libby from the pressure of detectives and the law that are trying to integrate Libby while she’s in the hospital recovering.
Classmates and friends : Libby’s classmates and friends are also important in the story as they are likely to have peer pressured Libby into drinking and doing other things causing her to drive and get into an accident which determined Libby’s fate.
Book review 3
Question : What is the conflict or problem in the story? What will need to happen to resolve this problem or conflict?
Answer : The main conflict in Live To Tell is focused on the loss of Libby Thorne’s memory after the car crash and she struggles to remember what happened. When she wakes up in the hospital, she’s told that she was in a serious car accident, unfortunately she doesn't remember what she did or the events leading up to it. This creates both an internal conflict and an external one. Internally, Libby feels confused and guilty. She also feels scared because she doesn’t know if she did something wrong. Externally, she faces pressure from the detectives, her friends, and even her helpful and concerned parents. Not knowing the truth makes it hard for Libby to trust others or even herself. In order to resolve this conflict, Libby needs to face the truth about the crash even if it’s painful. As the story goes on, she tries to piece together memories and realizes that avoiding the truth won’t help her move forward. The problem can only be resolved when Libby has to accept responsibility. By confronting the reality of the night of the accident, she will be able to begin to heal and even become more responsible. It is important for her to do all of this to move on.
Book review 4
Question : What personal experience have you had that relates to the characters or plot of this book? Describe your experience, and then describe the part of the book that relates to it. How are they similar?
Answer : A personal experience of mine starts off similar to the book. I had a traumatic experience when my dog died. It wasn’t traumatic but it’s something you remember and it relates to the story because of the following reasons.
Reason 1: Libby has a traumatic experience in a car crash and struggles to move forward
Reason 2: She is hurt physically, but also mentally which ties to me being hurt mentally.
Reason 3: She struggles to accept the fact that it happened where for a couple of weeks-months I did too.
In conclusion I feel like the experience of losing my dog can relate to the experience of Libby Thorne as we both share the same feelings, and emotions and struggle to accept the fact that the traumatic things that happened to us really happened.
Question : Did the author evoke strong feelings in you while reading? Describe the feelings that you had, and then describe what specific parts of the book made you feel that way.
Answer : Even though this question is asking about connecting, I can’t fully connect to all of the things in the book but I can connect to feeling of being lost or confused, and I can also connect to being scared just like Libby Thorne is. The reason I chose this question though was because the author evoked a strong feeling of excitement in me as I find this book really exciting to keep reading and seeing what’s next which may sound interesting but I am always excited to see what happens next in this book as the author did a good job making me hooked.
Book review 5
Question : What is the message, theme, or big idea of the story? Describe the theme, and then describe some things in the book that are working to make you think that way.
Answer : A major theme in Live to Tell is how the truth always comes out, even when people try to avoid it. The author doesn’t directly say this, but it becomes clear through Libby’s experience after the accident. Even though she can’t remember what happened, the unanswered questions and missing memories keep bothering her and pushing her to search for answers. The way different characters act also hints at this theme especially when some people avoid telling the full truth or change their stories. This makes the situation more stressful and shows how lying or hiding things only makes problems worse. By the end, it’s clear that honesty is the only way for Libby to move forward and start healing.
Question : How do you feel while reading the book? Describe your mood while reading, and then describe some things in the book that are working to make you feel that way.
Answer : I felt nervous and compassionate for Libby and almost felt like I was there going through everything with her. The story makes me feel like I’m alive in the universe of the story and I even felt scared. Some things in the book that made me feel that way were the turns and corners and out of the blue things that happened in the book where I learned in the accident she had hit a man who had suffered life threatening injuries. I also learned that at the beginning she had forgotten everything and the things in the story that remind her of what happened the night of the crash make me surprised. One of those things in the story that made me surprised was that she had a boyfriend who broke up with her the night of the crash whose name was Nate.
Book review 6
Question : Describe a scene in the book where a sensory image is used. What sense does the author appeal to? How does the sensory image work to give the reader a better sense of the characters?
Answer : One strong example of sensory imagery in Live to Tell is when Libby wakes up in the hospital after the crash. The author states things mostly to the sense of sight and touch by describing the bright lights, the white room, and the uncomfortable feeling of being hooked up to machines. Libby notices how unfamiliar everything feels, which helped me understand how lost and scared she is. The beeping sounds and the sterile hospital setting make the scene feel cold and even overwhelming. This sensory detail helps show Libby’s confusion and fear without directly saying it. By putting me in that moment with her, the author makes it easier to understand what Libby is going through emotionally.
Question : Describe a scene in the book where a sensory image is used in an extreme or shocking way. What sense does the author appeal to? What is the author’s goal in using this technique?
Answer : A shocking use of sensory imagery happens when Libby starts to remember parts of the car crash. The author mainly uses sound and feeling, like loud noises and the sudden impact to make the moment feel intense and confusing. This helped me understand how scary and overwhelming the crash was for Libby. The author uses this imagery to show how traumatic the experience was and why it stays with her.
Book review 7
Question : Please provide a detailed summary of the last full chapter you read for the weekly Goodreads book review. You may also choose a specific section of the book, or everything you’ve read to date.
Answer : In Chapter 10 of Live to Tell, Libby is taken from the hospital to the jail after the car accident. This happens while she is still injured and using crutches, which makes everything feel even more overwhelming. At the police station, she is photographed, weighed, measured, and fingerprinted by a constable. The whole process makes Libby nervous and uncomfortable, especially since she doesn’t fully understand why she has to be there. She becomes even more anxious when another prisoner is brought through the hallway, reminding her that she is in a real jail. Diane, Libby’s lawyer, stays with Libby the entire time to support her. Once everything is finished, Libby signs release papers and is allowed to go home, but she leaves feeling exhausted and shaken by the experience.
Book review 8
Question : Is this story age-appropriate? What are some elements that may be too advanced or too elemental for your age group? Why did the author choose to include these elements? How do they make you feel as the reader?
Answer : The story Live to Tell by Lisa Harrington is mostly age appropriate for a teen audience, but some parts feel more mature than what younger readers might be used to. The book deals with serious topics like fear, trauma, and difficult choices, which can be emotionally heavy at times. These elements might be challenging because they force you to think about real life dangers and consequences instead of simple, clear cut problems. At the same time, some moments are straightforward and easy to follow, especially when the focus is on relationships and everyday life, which helps balance out the heavier parts. I think the author chose to include these more advanced elements to make the story feel realistic and meaningful. Life isn’t always simple, and the characters' struggles reflect situations that real people might face, even if they are uncomfortable to read about. As a reader, these moments made me feel tense and sometimes uneasy, but they also helped me connect more deeply with the characters. Overall, the mix of mature themes and simpler moments makes the story more impactful and encourages readers my age to think more critically about the world around them.
Book review 9
Question : Vividly describe a character in your book. Provide details of both their physical appearance and their personality traits. Do you feel (like or dislike) anything about this character? Why or why not?
Answer : One character that stood out to me in Live to Tell is Libby, because the author makes her feel very real and believable. Physically, she isn't described in an exaggerated way which actually makes it easier to picture her as an everyday person rather than someone unrealistic. Her appearance feels normal and grounded, fitting the setting of the story and making it easier to imagine her walking around in real life. This makes the focus less about how she looks and more about what she is going through. Personality wise she comes across as cautious but strong, especially when facing stressful or frightening situations. She doesn't always have the answers and sometimes seems unsure which makes her more relatable. I mostly like her because her reactions feel honest and they experience fear and doubt but she still tries to push forward. That made me respect her more as the story went on since she is like a real person dealing with difficult circumstances rather than a perfect or fearless hero.
Book review 10
Question : Describe how you feel about a character in the book. If they were a real person, would you want to know them? Why or why not?
Answer : I feel mostly empathetic toward the main character because of how real and flawed they are. They don’t come across as someone who always knows what to do, and they make mistakes or hesitate when things get overwhelming. That actually made me connect with them more, since their reactions feel honest rather than exaggerated. Reading about their thoughts and fears helped me understand why they act the way they do, even when I didn’t always agree with their choices. If they were a real person, I think I would want to know them, but maybe not be extremely close. They seem like someone who has been through a lot and might be guarded at first, but also loyal and thoughtful once you earn their trust. I respect their resilience and the way they keep going despite fear and uncertainty. Overall, they feel like the kind of person who would be interesting to talk to because of their experiences and perspective on life.
Book review 11
Question: What do you think happens to the characters after the ending of the book? Provide a summary of the story after the end.
Answer : After the ending of the book, I imagine Libby slowly rebuilding her life with a much stronger sense of independence. Everything she goes through forces her to grow up quickly and by the end she understands her own strength more clearly. Even though the events of the story would stay with her for a long time I think she would finally feel a sense of relief knowing the truth is out. Moving forward, she would focus on healing and trying to regain a normal life, even if it takes time. As for Cal and Julia, I think their actions eventually catch up with them. Since they played such a major role in setting Libby up and trying to frame her it makes sense that they would face serious consequences, most likely jail time. I imagine their relationships and reputations falling apart once the truth is revealed. In the end, the story feels like it closes with justice being served while Libby is given a chance to move on from what they put her through.
Book review 12
Question : If you would recommend this book, what type of reader would you recommend it to? What are the main elements of this book that would make it interesting for others to read?
Answer : I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy suspenseful stories that are realistic and emotionally intense. It’s especially suited for teens who like mysteries or thrillers that focus more on characters and tension rather than constant action. Readers who are interested in stories set in real places, like Halifax and who don’t mind heavier themes would probably find it more engaging. The main elements that make this book interesting are the suspense, the twists in the plot, and the way the author builds tension through relationships between characters. The sense of being unsure who to trust keeps the story moving and makes you want to keep reading. The emotional side of the story also stands out, since it shows how fear, betrayal, and resilience affect the characters, which helps the book feel realistic and memorable.
Question : Who did the author write this book for? What were they hoping to get their readers to think about? Were they successful? Why or why not?
Answer : I think Lisa Harrington wrote Live to Tell mainly for a teenage audience, especially older teens who are ready to read about more serious and realistic situations. The book seems aimed at readers who can handle suspense and emotional tension, not just simple or lighthearted stories. Through the characters and the plot the author wants readers to think about trust, betrayal, and how quickly someone’s life can change because of the choices of others. I think the author was successful in getting these ideas across because the story makes you question who you can really trust and how easily the truth can be twisted. The situations the characters face feel believable, which makes the message more impactful. By the end of the book, it’s hard not to reflect on how fear and manipulation affect people, especially someone like Libby, which shows the author achieved what they were aiming for.
May 29, 2023
THE PLOT TWIST WAS INSANE !!
April 15, 2024
So…I was given this book a while back by a friend and I’ve had it for months because I’m so bad at following through when people lend me books they think I’ll like. But look! I finally read it!
It’s been a while since I’ve read a mystery/thriller kind of book but I liked this one because it was short and fast paced. Basically, the mc wakes up after an accident where she loses all her memory but she’s being charged with a serious crime she can’t remember. Everyone’s being sus obv, and then she figures out the truth in the end.
Listen, the whole book I knew that Mr Boyfriend was so weird, like I knew there was something up with him, but the best friend??? HUH? That low key took me out. I found the main character was like really annoying and dumb, and I really did not like her parents either. I thought they were super inconsiderate and condescending. So yeah, I was not a fan of the characters, but the plot was really fun to read.
It’s been a while since I’ve read a mystery/thriller kind of book but I liked this one because it was short and fast paced. Basically, the mc wakes up after an accident where she loses all her memory but she’s being charged with a serious crime she can’t remember. Everyone’s being sus obv, and then she figures out the truth in the end.
Listen, the whole book I knew that Mr Boyfriend was so weird, like I knew there was something up with him, but the best friend??? HUH? That low key took me out. I found the main character was like really annoying and dumb, and I really did not like her parents either. I thought they were super inconsiderate and condescending. So yeah, I was not a fan of the characters, but the plot was really fun to read.
October 22, 2019
I loved this book. I read it for grade 9 white pine and I couldn't put it down
(Spoilers kinda)
Libby gets into a car accident after drinking at a high school party which lands her in the hospital in critical condition. She is in a lot of trouble with the police because the person she hit is worse off then she is. While questioning her, Libby realizes she can't remember anything... As the story continues she learns about a boy that was in the car with her. He's okay however the story he's telling her and the police isn't quite adding up. She finds out the truth of her accident and who it was she hit.
There's a great plot twist that caught me off guard and I was really happy with it.
Anyway I totally recommend this book its a super short and easy read. I did it in two days and I'm a slowish reader.
(Spoilers kinda)
Libby gets into a car accident after drinking at a high school party which lands her in the hospital in critical condition. She is in a lot of trouble with the police because the person she hit is worse off then she is. While questioning her, Libby realizes she can't remember anything... As the story continues she learns about a boy that was in the car with her. He's okay however the story he's telling her and the police isn't quite adding up. She finds out the truth of her accident and who it was she hit.
There's a great plot twist that caught me off guard and I was really happy with it.
Anyway I totally recommend this book its a super short and easy read. I did it in two days and I'm a slowish reader.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2019
This was such an incredible and heart-wrenching story. I felt very strong "The Sixth Sense" vibes near the end and I had to keep myself from sobbing. Every time I thought I knew what was happening I was completely turned around. Phenomenal job Lisa!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2020
Good Pace
After an accident, a young girls slowly regains her memory of the incident. Well paced and reflective of an adolescent mind set.
After an accident, a young girls slowly regains her memory of the incident. Well paced and reflective of an adolescent mind set.
October 8, 2022
Fantastic writing! A really great twist ending too!
April 1, 2025
Amazing book read it for English class Amazing story line and plot just the whole book was good. Was the first book I actually wanted to read for a class
November 1, 2013
The author puts us in a difficult place at the beginning of this book.
From what one can gather from the back, and the Forest of Reading's website this is about drunk driving. This isn't like any other book about drunk driving. This is not about the victim, family grieving, or the driver trying to survive a while after the accident. This is about the driver.
A big part of books is caring and connecting to the main character. I may sound harsh and cruel here, but I simply cannot sympathize or give any emotions to the driver. What they did was wrong. This may just because I've seen too many traumatizing and horrifying MADD videos, or it might just be because what the driver did is so wrong. There may be drivers out there who deserve sympathy, but this didn't convince me of that case.
As this is the angle that the book took, it's in a very difficult position. I can't care about the character, yet it's obviously trying to show something different by taking this angle.
The turn of events that takes place in the book, made me wonder the author's decision to tell the story that way. From what I could see, it really wasn't focusing on either of the big reveals the way it was told.
Simply because of the numerous angles taken in this book, neither angle really excelled where it could have.
From what one can gather from the back, and the Forest of Reading's website this is about drunk driving. This isn't like any other book about drunk driving. This is not about the victim, family grieving, or the driver trying to survive a while after the accident. This is about the driver.
A big part of books is caring and connecting to the main character. I may sound harsh and cruel here, but I simply cannot sympathize or give any emotions to the driver. What they did was wrong. This may just because I've seen too many traumatizing and horrifying MADD videos, or it might just be because what the driver did is so wrong. There may be drivers out there who deserve sympathy, but this didn't convince me of that case.
As this is the angle that the book took, it's in a very difficult position. I can't care about the character, yet it's obviously trying to show something different by taking this angle.
The turn of events that takes place in the book, made me wonder the author's decision to tell the story that way. From what I could see, it really wasn't focusing on either of the big reveals the way it was told.
Simply because of the numerous angles taken in this book, neither angle really excelled where it could have.
November 15, 2013
The only reason I came across this book was because I am in the White Pine club. Short and sweet, this book is quite a page turner, though I won't really read it over again in the future. The plot had a lot of potential, but the events were overly predictable, especially 'Cal' being found guilty, because he acts like a class A jerk from the start.
I read this book in a two-hour sitting, it didn't make any lasting impressions on me, but it isn't totally atrocious either. I really like how Lisa Harrinton writes some of the scenes where Libby remembers stuff, "I caught a whiff of his breath. Liquor. It smelled sour and sweet at the same time." the writing felt so real and surreal (since Libby was drunk) I could imagine myself in the scene as it plays out.
Overall, I felt like I read a short story instead of a novel, mostly because the story was so simple. The only real shock I got from this story is when Kasey turns out to be a figment of Libby's imagination (I should have seen it coming, but I didn't). Also, the characters seem a bit overtly flat (probably because the story was in Libby's POV...), the concerned parents who are worried out of their minds, the antagonist who is really bad at acting not guilty... you get the idea. The only character I had gained a depth of understanding was Libby, since all her emotions are written out; I wish Harrington gives us Caleb's point of view as well, it would be really interesting for us all to see Cal as a person instead of just "the antagonist".
I read this book in a two-hour sitting, it didn't make any lasting impressions on me, but it isn't totally atrocious either. I really like how Lisa Harrinton writes some of the scenes where Libby remembers stuff, "I caught a whiff of his breath. Liquor. It smelled sour and sweet at the same time." the writing felt so real and surreal (since Libby was drunk) I could imagine myself in the scene as it plays out.
Overall, I felt like I read a short story instead of a novel, mostly because the story was so simple. The only real shock I got from this story is when Kasey turns out to be a figment of Libby's imagination (I should have seen it coming, but I didn't). Also, the characters seem a bit overtly flat (probably because the story was in Libby's POV...), the concerned parents who are worried out of their minds, the antagonist who is really bad at acting not guilty... you get the idea. The only character I had gained a depth of understanding was Libby, since all her emotions are written out; I wish Harrington gives us Caleb's point of view as well, it would be really interesting for us all to see Cal as a person instead of just "the antagonist".
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 30, 2012
A good quick read. Libby wakes up in the hospital not remembering an accident in which she was driving and hit a pedestrian. She has no memory of the accident and some pieces slowly come back to her but they don't make sense. Her boyfriend cal visits all the time, sends her flowers, fact is she doesn't remember him even being her boyfriend. He is Hailed as a Hero, pulling Her from The burning car. Libby and her best friend Kasey try to figure out what happened that night as Libby is arrested and charged.
Cal's involvement in the accident is really predictable. I knew that almost from the start how that went but I totally didn't see the kasey part coming. Great twist.
Cal's involvement in the accident is really predictable. I knew that almost from the start how that went but I totally didn't see the kasey part coming. Great twist.
January 28, 2022
This book was fucking crazy & it does not get enough credit It is short and easy to read but had me dying to know what was gonna happen. I predicted the first part of the ending and thought it was done but then it did a full 360 and I was completely thrown. Oh my god I was so shocked it literally almost killed me. I couldn’t stop thinking about this ending for days it’s so sad. I was so gobsmacked and to this day I still think about this ending and life and death and how the world is a terrible place. This book would help anyone get out of a reading slump. Crazy and super upsetting.
March 2, 2014
This book is OKAY. I don't usually read these kind of books, but I tried it because I'm part of the White Pine book club in my school. So obviously I have to read the book and even though the story was a bit cliched in a sense; the book was still great. It is well written and as a fangirl there are always the FEELS in the book. I honestly would have rated it higher; however, as I said before it is quite cliched. But you know the writing style is good and it keeps the readers to crave more.
April 21, 2014
Wasn't too excited to pick this book up but I read it because it was part of the White Pine books. I was (truth-be-told) bored with the book until the last quarter. The beginning was very cliché and typical; scenes and results were very easy to guess and solve. Thus, I didn't become interested; until the end came. Definite plot twist that shocked me. That was the best part, and so, this book wasn't interesting much.
May 11, 2013
When Libby wakes up in hospital she is scared and confused. Libby does not remember what happened, not the car accident, not the party, not even the guy who says he is her boyfriend. This psychological thriller has some great twists! Harrington is a Canadian writer, and this title has been nominated for the Atlantic Book Awards - Ann Connor Brimer Award 2013.
September 13, 2014
I read this book because of White Pine.In my opinion, the book was dragging at the beginning(it was boring).I was planing on giving up on the book, but i powered through. of course it got more compelling near the end.It has to do with driving and under age drinking.The plot twist was surprising. Overall, the book was good, but not one of my favorities.
June 17, 2014
Really good for a book so short. The subject matter is slightly overused but the writer uses it better than most. Starts off a little too slow and finishes a little too fast. The plot will keep you interested in the story but sometimes drags along. The plot twist took me by surprise and really earned it the 5 stars.
December 8, 2013
Imagine waking up in a hospital bed with no recent memories while strange new people are in your life. This book was a good fast read with some interesting twists along the way. I would recommend this book for teens who are interested in a book with a little mystery in the plot.
February 9, 2014
Good twist, but wrapped up a little too fast...the beginning dragged too much. Would have liked to see more plot in the middle and end and less in the hospital, or at least more development in the hospital.
March 5, 2014
I liked this novel. It wasn't the most interesting or entertaining book I've ever read, but it kept my attention span going. The plot twists were pretty predictable, but was still a decent story nonetheless.
April 22, 2014
I liked the mystery (both of them) at the end and I liked the characters. I think that since the story was from Libby's point of view, I could empathize with her more and I cried a couple times because she was so helpless.
November 2, 2013
This book was very predictable. It was written in a simple way, so it was an easy and quick read. I predicted the ending, but it was not as bad as I thought it would be.
October 20, 2014
i cant belive the ending about Kasey
March 23, 2014
The ending has a twist that makes that book just that much better!
January 24, 2014
OMG THIS BOOK JUST SHOCKED ME I THOUGHT I HAD IT ALL DOWN BUT NOPE!! I really liked this book it was pretty amazing at the end don't think you have it all Down cause you might not.
January 27, 2014
I can see why younger teens like it. Some predictability especially at the end, but it held my interest.
February 12, 2014
A really good book!!
February 22, 2014
It had an unexpected ending. You have to read it to find out how it ends! I might read more books like this in the future.
March 2, 2014
Great story. :) The plot twist at the ending totally surprised me!
June 5, 2014
A 2014 White Pine Award nominee. The outcome was very predictable, but it was very interesting to see how they got there. I'd recommend this book.
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