What do you think?
Rate this book
Helipads in Heaven
Imaginative, haunting, and heartwarming—Shanti Hershenson's best book yet!World-renowned author Dillon Hershkop has everything she wants in life, but getting there hasn’t been easy. Now thirty years old, she has achieved almost everything she dreamed of as a young A dazzling career, a devoted fan base, and a picture-perfect family—but despite all of this, she is also painstakingly bored.
That is why, when Dillon receives the opportunity to become the test subject for a time-traveling experiment hosted by JPL’s brand new Center for Experimental Science, she seizes the opportunity to explore La Cañada—and the places she grew up around—without any immediate reservations. In exchange, she can write a brand new memoir both about time travel and the nearly forgotten experiences that shaped her into the talented woman she is today. That is, if she returns.
Dillon is soon thrown head-first as an adult spectator into the complicated world of her ten-year-old self—fondly nicknamed Goose—from her love of helicopters, writing, and all things Elton John, to her unreceptive fourth-grade teacher, Ms. Vincent, her sourly judgemental classmates, and the missed opportunities of a fourth-grade writer with a smothered voice.
As she observes the childhood she does not entirely remember, she begins to realize that there are reasons for the holes in her memories—things she must not remember, because if she does, it may become impossible to stand back and watch the oil of her bottled-up trauma be poured into a fire from a distance. And if she goes against the direct orders of the laboratory, the effects of tampering with a nearly unknown science may permanently disrupt the fabrics of time, space, and Dillon’s existence.
From the teenage author of You Won’t Know Her Name, Helipads in Heaven is a deep and heartwarming adventure of time travel, childhood ambitions, and at the core, a love letter to unique children and those who dare to dream.
That is why, when Dillon receives the opportunity to become the test subject for a time-traveling experiment hosted by JPL’s brand new Center for Experimental Science, she seizes the opportunity to explore La Cañada—and the places she grew up around—without any immediate reservations. In exchange, she can write a brand new memoir both about time travel and the nearly forgotten experiences that shaped her into the talented woman she is today. That is, if she returns.
Dillon is soon thrown head-first as an adult spectator into the complicated world of her ten-year-old self—fondly nicknamed Goose—from her love of helicopters, writing, and all things Elton John, to her unreceptive fourth-grade teacher, Ms. Vincent, her sourly judgemental classmates, and the missed opportunities of a fourth-grade writer with a smothered voice.
As she observes the childhood she does not entirely remember, she begins to realize that there are reasons for the holes in her memories—things she must not remember, because if she does, it may become impossible to stand back and watch the oil of her bottled-up trauma be poured into a fire from a distance. And if she goes against the direct orders of the laboratory, the effects of tampering with a nearly unknown science may permanently disrupt the fabrics of time, space, and Dillon’s existence.
From the teenage author of You Won’t Know Her Name, Helipads in Heaven is a deep and heartwarming adventure of time travel, childhood ambitions, and at the core, a love letter to unique children and those who dare to dream.
- GenresYoung AdultFantasy
170 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 15, 2023
30 people are currently reading
876 people want to read
About the author
Shanti Hershenson
36 books265 followersShanti Hershenson’s first two novellas were published when she was in the sixth grade, although her writing journey started long before then. Ever since she could hold a pencil, marker, or crayon, she was creating stories. They started from pictures, mere scribbles, and eventually, turned into captivating tales.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
November 2, 2023
I may be slightly biased because I am the author of this book, but Helipads in Heaven is the best book I’ve ever written thus far and I’m so excited for you all to read it! 🫶
September 5, 2023
I was able to read the ARC of this novel and read it in one sitting from start to finish. As Shanti has acknowledged, it’s a pretty short story, but it still packs a punch!!
I would give this a 4.5/5⭐️, but am listing it as a 5 star for the sake of rounding up.
I think the writing in this book is VERY good. I never found myself bored, everything flowed well, and the dialogue and interactions were interesting.
The only reason I bump it down to a 4.5 instead of a 5 is because:
(1) I wish it was longer!! (which is a compliment)
(2) It ever so slightly annoyed me that Dillon couldn’t seem to listen to the doctor’s instructions about not interfering with her past life - most of the time it really didn’t even seem like she was trying. I think I would’ve enjoyed a little bit more of an internal struggle there with her really trying not to interact with anyone, that way it was less frustrating when she does break down and talk with her younger self. As it is, Dillon not only talks to herself but her mother, he old school bullies, and her old teacher. At that point I’m like…. She really doesn’t care about interfering or what it could do to the universe hahaha.
However, that second point is really my only critique of the story. I would’ve loved a little more sci-fi and inclusion of the science and implications of time travel in this world - but even as it is, this was a great story. I think it’s also deeply healing to anyone who has experienced a rough childhood (specifically at school) like Goose did.
To see Dillon come home and finally be able to move forward without that repressed trauma was heart warming and felt like a weight lifted of my shoulders. It makes me think about how much I would love to go back and meet my younger self. There are a lot of things I don’t remember about childhood, so I definitely see myself in Dillon and the cringey, but deep felt love you have for your naive, hurt younger self is so real.🤍
Beautiful short story and easy read!!
I would give this a 4.5/5⭐️, but am listing it as a 5 star for the sake of rounding up.
I think the writing in this book is VERY good. I never found myself bored, everything flowed well, and the dialogue and interactions were interesting.
The only reason I bump it down to a 4.5 instead of a 5 is because:
(1) I wish it was longer!! (which is a compliment)
(2) It ever so slightly annoyed me that Dillon couldn’t seem to listen to the doctor’s instructions about not interfering with her past life - most of the time it really didn’t even seem like she was trying. I think I would’ve enjoyed a little bit more of an internal struggle there with her really trying not to interact with anyone, that way it was less frustrating when she does break down and talk with her younger self. As it is, Dillon not only talks to herself but her mother, he old school bullies, and her old teacher. At that point I’m like…. She really doesn’t care about interfering or what it could do to the universe hahaha.
However, that second point is really my only critique of the story. I would’ve loved a little more sci-fi and inclusion of the science and implications of time travel in this world - but even as it is, this was a great story. I think it’s also deeply healing to anyone who has experienced a rough childhood (specifically at school) like Goose did.
To see Dillon come home and finally be able to move forward without that repressed trauma was heart warming and felt like a weight lifted of my shoulders. It makes me think about how much I would love to go back and meet my younger self. There are a lot of things I don’t remember about childhood, so I definitely see myself in Dillon and the cringey, but deep felt love you have for your naive, hurt younger self is so real.🤍
Beautiful short story and easy read!!
September 16, 2023
I had the opportunity of arc reading this beautifully written story! 🥹 I absolutely loved it!! I felt all the emotions the characters experienced and then to remember that this was written by a 15 year old. 🤯 shanti is very very talented!! I can’t wait to read more of her work and follow her journey!
March 22, 2025
Helipads in Heaven is a beautifully written, deeply personal story that captures what it’s like to reflect on your childhood and see how those early experiences shape who you become. Shanti Hershenson tells her story with honesty and vulnerability, bringing real emotions to the surface that are impossible to ignore.
This book is filled with love, guilt, sadness, and moments of true happiness. The themes are so raw and relatable, they pulled at my own heartstrings more than once. It’s a powerful reminder of how our past lives with us—and how healing can be both painful and beautiful.
I’m incredibly thankful to have received this copy from Voracious Readers Only in exchange for an honest review. Shanti Hershenson did an amazing job writing this short read and I’m so glad I got the chance to read it.
This book is filled with love, guilt, sadness, and moments of true happiness. The themes are so raw and relatable, they pulled at my own heartstrings more than once. It’s a powerful reminder of how our past lives with us—and how healing can be both painful and beautiful.
I’m incredibly thankful to have received this copy from Voracious Readers Only in exchange for an honest review. Shanti Hershenson did an amazing job writing this short read and I’m so glad I got the chance to read it.
November 14, 2023
Short simple story with a whole lot of meaning!! I absolutely loved this book and I had the pleasure of it being my very first ARC read. Absolutely would recommend to anyone who feels like the world is against them, things will always get better, things will always work out the way they were meant to be.
October 3, 2023
Being chosen as an ARC reader for this book was truly a blessing. Helipads in Heaven follows Dillon as she time travels and watches her younger fourth-grade self struggling in school and chasing her dreams. What made me give this book a 4.5 rating is how heartwarming it is, from the prologue to the afterword (the afterword made me smile as much as the plot). It shows both the lives of Dillon and Goose and how Goose's events (or Dillon's childhood events) have shaped Dillon as a famous author. The lesson of the story really shines through at the end of the novel when Dillon realises that because of her persistence to follow her dreams and never to give up (despite the harsh bullying she faced as a child), she's become an amazing author in present time and is able to do what she loves.
From Shanti's writing to the scenes and events that take place with the characters, I can tell that it's not just words typed onto a laptop but words coming from deep within the heart. The enthusiasm of Goose towards her writing and Dillon's fondness towards her childhood self, as well as small things like her love for Elton John and helicopters are what makes this story as touching as it is. Also, words cannot describe how much I loathe Ms. Vincent because of how she treats Goose! She's so infuriating, but I'm glad Goose nor Dillon let her get in the way of their dreams. I aspire to be like Goose, dreaming when others don't dare to stray from reality.
I had a great time reading this, although the 0.5 off is because I found it a little childish for my liking (just an opinion, of course, as I don't tend to read many children's novels).
From Shanti's writing to the scenes and events that take place with the characters, I can tell that it's not just words typed onto a laptop but words coming from deep within the heart. The enthusiasm of Goose towards her writing and Dillon's fondness towards her childhood self, as well as small things like her love for Elton John and helicopters are what makes this story as touching as it is. Also, words cannot describe how much I loathe Ms. Vincent because of how she treats Goose! She's so infuriating, but I'm glad Goose nor Dillon let her get in the way of their dreams. I aspire to be like Goose, dreaming when others don't dare to stray from reality.
I had a great time reading this, although the 0.5 off is because I found it a little childish for my liking (just an opinion, of course, as I don't tend to read many children's novels).
December 5, 2023
This was an intriguing story! I empathize with the main character, both at age 10 and at age 30. A lot of how Goose is described is classic ADHD primarily inattentive type. I myself wasn’t diagnosed until age 15, and I was also a daydreamer who stared out my classroom windows as a child. I’m not armchair diagnosing anyone, but I do think this book will resonate with many neurodivergent readers, especially with the bullying and not knowing what you’re doing wrong socially that is driving others away.
I am amazed at what the author has been able to accomplish at such a young age. She’s definitely one to watch!
Many thanks to Ms. Hershenson and Voracious Readers Only for a complimentary copy in exchange for my honest review.
I also post reviews on Instagram as books_the_magical_fruit.
#helipadsinheaven #neurodivergent #childhood #creativity #timetravel #sciencefiction #writing #bullying
I am amazed at what the author has been able to accomplish at such a young age. She’s definitely one to watch!
Many thanks to Ms. Hershenson and Voracious Readers Only for a complimentary copy in exchange for my honest review.
I also post reviews on Instagram as books_the_magical_fruit.
#helipadsinheaven #neurodivergent #childhood #creativity #timetravel #sciencefiction #writing #bullying
September 30, 2023
I was lucky enough to be able to read this as an ARC reader. The first time I read it was in one sitting, and I've reread it several times now. The book flows perfectly, and is beautifully written, with lovable and emotional characters.
I am absolutely in love with Goose, both because I was able to relate to her character and because she is (along with every other character) incredibly well written. She is resilient and inspiring, and has genuinely touched my heart.
This book is definitely worth a read, Shanti Hershenson is an incredible author and I can't wait to read more of her work.
I am absolutely in love with Goose, both because I was able to relate to her character and because she is (along with every other character) incredibly well written. She is resilient and inspiring, and has genuinely touched my heart.
This book is definitely worth a read, Shanti Hershenson is an incredible author and I can't wait to read more of her work.
September 10, 2023
I was lucky to be chosen as an ARC reader for this novel- AND LET ME TELL YOU i loved it so much. I took me a while to read it because I was reading on my phone which was new to me, but the story moves so fast when I was reading, I couldn’t stop. I loved the concept of this story, it kept me so interested i needed to know what happened next. Highly recommend!!!! also i’m very very impressed with Shanti, 15 years old and already has 15 published books!!!!
September 1, 2023
I read this book today ( i got the opportunity to read an arc of it ) and i finished it in less then a day the writing is soooo good the authors writing style is so great and makes you not want to put the book down this is the first book of hers ive read i really recommend this book its a short and sweet story :D
September 13, 2023
Dillion? Oh - my - God, I love her so much. I could feel everything she was feeling, I understood her pain, the thought of only having yourself. I felt like I was remembering how my fourth, fifth, and seventh grade years went. I was looking into a mirror and seeing my nine/ten/twelve year old selves. Helipads in Heaven spoke to me on a deeper level than I expected, finished it in one go.
September 18, 2023
shanti has been an author i’ve wanted to read for a while, so i was so glad when i got chosen to read an ARC of this book! she did not disappoint! it’s really inspiring to me as a teen author that shanti has published so many books and has been so successful so far at such a young age. thank you for letting me read this!! thank you for your time. 🩷
October 7, 2023
Hi! I got the pleasure to read this book early. I enjoyed this book very much. I absolutely loved it it is such a good book to pick up when there is a lot going on in life this book brings me as the reader such a heartwarming feel. Even if I loved the book as such a quick read I still do wish that the book was longer and we saw more of Goose's journey.
November 6, 2025
FABULOUS . I really cannot praise this book enough, from the very cover to the end, it is fabulous. I absolutely loved how it resounded with me on every angle. From being on a path to facing and healing my own inner child, this just spoke lyricism, the way it resounded to me and beautifully written.
September 5, 2023
I loved this so much. It’s an emotional roller coaster for sure. I felt the anger for the characters but also the wins. Very well written. I always enjoy a short read and finishing a book in a day is a blessing for me lol. If you want a heart warming short story this is definitely for you.
September 6, 2023
I received this book as an ARC. I enjoyed this book. It was an easy read that and was fairly short. I found it relatable and personable. It is a book about overcoming childhood bullies, and fulfilling your childhood dream.
September 10, 2023
just finished this book and it was so cute!
I really enjoyed it. It was so sweet and I loved it so much!!
It's a very lovely story, with a very lovable protagonist. Goose is fierce, intelligent, and unapologetically herself!
This book is definitely worth the read!
I really enjoyed it. It was so sweet and I loved it so much!!
It's a very lovely story, with a very lovable protagonist. Goose is fierce, intelligent, and unapologetically herself!
This book is definitely worth the read!
October 8, 2023
I personally loved this book and am honored to have had the chance for the ARC. I love that it was a quick read when I found myself in a book slump and it had me staring at a wall for a good couple days after. The themes behind the book make you truly think and dig deep. I love this.
October 8, 2023
It takes a strong person to relive memories and an even stronger person to not change the past when an opportunity presents itself. This book made me tear up a little bit with nostalgia of when I was younger and had a dream that I never gave up on. Would recommend if you want a short heartwarming story about a girl who relearns what’s most important to her by time travel.
September 10, 2023
Loved it.
It did start off a little slow for me but once I got into it. I just had to find out what happens .
I did residence an advance copy .
September 11, 2023
Wish it was longer 😭🫶
October 1, 2023
4.75 stars or 5 stars
I am an arc reader for this book and it's AMAZING. I don't really know what else to say besides that. Either way, I loved Goose.
I am an arc reader for this book and it's AMAZING. I don't really know what else to say besides that. Either way, I loved Goose.
October 15, 2023
I got a copy this book online as an arc from the author. The book was really well written and seemed like a great story however, I did not finish it. It wasn’t really my thing but I think I will pick it up later. The writing was great the plot was just not my cup of tea.
April 4, 2025
I was gifted this book by the Author as I interviewed her for my podcast: The Infinite Life with Katische Haberfield.
I'll admit I thought from the title of this book, that it was going to have spiritual themes, but what I found was a nostalgic trip through time, not too different from one of my adventures with my clients in hypnotherapy with age regression, or stepping into a time machine with the Doctor or even to get into the De Lorean with Michael J Fox.
Shanti writes this novel through the perspective of a thirty-something woman, who has kids and a brilliant career as a writer. But there is something that haunts her from her past- the bullying she experienced at school from the kids and her teacher.
What is remarkable about this author is she is 17 and has 20 books already under her belt! She's got a lot of spunk and it was so much fun to interview her, because she reminds me of the girl that I once was. Always imagining stories and writing books in class.
Why not take a trip back in time, it might leave you pondering your own childhood.
I'll admit I thought from the title of this book, that it was going to have spiritual themes, but what I found was a nostalgic trip through time, not too different from one of my adventures with my clients in hypnotherapy with age regression, or stepping into a time machine with the Doctor or even to get into the De Lorean with Michael J Fox.
Shanti writes this novel through the perspective of a thirty-something woman, who has kids and a brilliant career as a writer. But there is something that haunts her from her past- the bullying she experienced at school from the kids and her teacher.
What is remarkable about this author is she is 17 and has 20 books already under her belt! She's got a lot of spunk and it was so much fun to interview her, because she reminds me of the girl that I once was. Always imagining stories and writing books in class.
Why not take a trip back in time, it might leave you pondering your own childhood.
October 23, 2023
this book was more on the shorter side perfect for hitting your reading goal. But this story made it think back my childhood day and over coming bullies. Which is still a mental battle i fight with everyday. But overall really enjoyed this read. Thank you Shanti.
i had the pleasure of receiving this as an ARC read the author herself is super sweet and hope to read more from her! 🥺🩷
i had the pleasure of receiving this as an ARC read the author herself is super sweet and hope to read more from her! 🥺🩷
November 14, 2023
Ii had the pleasure of reading an ARC of this book. I thought it was beautifully written. I personally read things that are much darker but in this genre I thought this book was perfect. The message of overcoming bullying was really well displayed. I do wish it was a bit longer to see the end results but that’s just my opinion, definitely not necessary.
I think the characters were very well developed and both the characters and situations were extremely relatable. Shanti Hershenson is already a very talented author at a young age and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for her writing. If this book is any indication, she is going to do AMAZING things.
I think the characters were very well developed and both the characters and situations were extremely relatable. Shanti Hershenson is already a very talented author at a young age and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for her writing. If this book is any indication, she is going to do AMAZING things.
September 2, 2023
A quick read that I read in one sitting and exceptionally beautiful. Despite its brevity, it was almost healing in a way to me, the reader. The fact that I can relate to it, as I was once the "weird" kid and an avid story writer since I could hold a pencil, makes it all the more meaningful. Truly beautiful.
January 7, 2024
A touching tale of reconnecting with memories and realizing the truth.
Dillon (aka Goose, as a child) might have been misunderstood as a kid, who tended to day dream and was lost in imagination's stories, but now, at thirty-years-old, she's become a famous author and household name. Her life has been blessed, but boredom leads her to accept the chance to be the first person to experience the newest technological wonder—time travel. After signing tons of waivers and stifling her doubt, she heads off to her time of choice—her childhood. There she wants to observe her younger self. She knows she can't get directly involved or it will cause problems. But sometimes, emotions tend to overpower practical reasoning.
This is a beautifully written read, which steers straight into emotions, memories, and the heart. The prologue and first chapter let both Dillons come across just enough for the reader to get a grip on their situations and personalities. So, when the older Dillon is thrust through time (very simply and nicely done), the situations of both characters (older and younger) is already set. Goose, the younger Dillon, is kind and misunderstood, which also means there is more than a little bullying involved. It's easy to sympathize with her and understand the older Dillon's feelings and thoughts as things unfold. It's a well-played balance between the two, which invites to understanding as well as realizations.
There are many wholesome and wise messages in these pages, and these hold depth and maturity. It's a character driven read, carrying plenty of emotions and depth. At times, it does have a slightly slower pacing because of this (I tend to be more of an 'action' girl), but it flows smoothly from beginning to end. The length is perfect for the read and makes it an easy one to dive into and enjoy. I would recommend it, however, to slightly older readers than the YA audience (although I have no doubt that there are readers in this age group who will enjoy it too) simply due to older Dillon's perspectives. While readers learn from Goose and root for her as well, it's the older Dillon, who experiences the true character arc.
In any case, it's impossible to guess the age of the author when reading this. The heart, emotions, and messages carry a depth and maturity way beyond her age. It is going to be a treat to see where she goes from here. I received a complimentary copy and enjoyed the wholesome trip through time.
Dillon (aka Goose, as a child) might have been misunderstood as a kid, who tended to day dream and was lost in imagination's stories, but now, at thirty-years-old, she's become a famous author and household name. Her life has been blessed, but boredom leads her to accept the chance to be the first person to experience the newest technological wonder—time travel. After signing tons of waivers and stifling her doubt, she heads off to her time of choice—her childhood. There she wants to observe her younger self. She knows she can't get directly involved or it will cause problems. But sometimes, emotions tend to overpower practical reasoning.
This is a beautifully written read, which steers straight into emotions, memories, and the heart. The prologue and first chapter let both Dillons come across just enough for the reader to get a grip on their situations and personalities. So, when the older Dillon is thrust through time (very simply and nicely done), the situations of both characters (older and younger) is already set. Goose, the younger Dillon, is kind and misunderstood, which also means there is more than a little bullying involved. It's easy to sympathize with her and understand the older Dillon's feelings and thoughts as things unfold. It's a well-played balance between the two, which invites to understanding as well as realizations.
There are many wholesome and wise messages in these pages, and these hold depth and maturity. It's a character driven read, carrying plenty of emotions and depth. At times, it does have a slightly slower pacing because of this (I tend to be more of an 'action' girl), but it flows smoothly from beginning to end. The length is perfect for the read and makes it an easy one to dive into and enjoy. I would recommend it, however, to slightly older readers than the YA audience (although I have no doubt that there are readers in this age group who will enjoy it too) simply due to older Dillon's perspectives. While readers learn from Goose and root for her as well, it's the older Dillon, who experiences the true character arc.
In any case, it's impossible to guess the age of the author when reading this. The heart, emotions, and messages carry a depth and maturity way beyond her age. It is going to be a treat to see where she goes from here. I received a complimentary copy and enjoyed the wholesome trip through time.
September 16, 2023
4 stars overall. now this rating does not mean that YOU will not enjoy this book. it is just MY personal rating as i have a different perspective.
so first off, this book is absolutely amazing and gorgeous. shanti’s writing is phenomenal. however, the reason i personally didn’t really enjoy this book was because it is simply not my cup of tea. i read a lot more darker stuff so i thought oo an arc reading will be awesome, and it’s a different genre for a change. i just simply do not really like the lighterhearted stuff. that is simply just me.
the only other issue i had with the book is i prefer to read books with past tense not present tense. that is simply my preference.
positives:
shanti has written something that hit really close to home with this book. goose/dillon is a character i really related with as when i was in comp and juniors i was bullied relentlessly. for being the ‘weird’ kid or the ‘gay’ kid. half the time they were just, awful people. which is why when i read this book it really hit close. specifically when dillon said that ‘maybe some parts i havent gotten over.’ that quote from the book (it probably isnt the exact line) is something that i often find my self realising.
the fact that shanti is younger than me and has written so many books is just inspiring. it’s just so freakin cool that they have written over 10? books (it is definitely more than that.)
overall. this book is an absolute masterpiece for people who do enjoy light hearted stuff. and shanti’s writing is so beautiful. i will recommend their books to others who do like this type of genre.
thank you shanti for letting me read this masterpiece before it gets released x
so first off, this book is absolutely amazing and gorgeous. shanti’s writing is phenomenal. however, the reason i personally didn’t really enjoy this book was because it is simply not my cup of tea. i read a lot more darker stuff so i thought oo an arc reading will be awesome, and it’s a different genre for a change. i just simply do not really like the lighterhearted stuff. that is simply just me.
the only other issue i had with the book is i prefer to read books with past tense not present tense. that is simply my preference.
positives:
shanti has written something that hit really close to home with this book. goose/dillon is a character i really related with as when i was in comp and juniors i was bullied relentlessly. for being the ‘weird’ kid or the ‘gay’ kid. half the time they were just, awful people. which is why when i read this book it really hit close. specifically when dillon said that ‘maybe some parts i havent gotten over.’ that quote from the book (it probably isnt the exact line) is something that i often find my self realising.
the fact that shanti is younger than me and has written so many books is just inspiring. it’s just so freakin cool that they have written over 10? books (it is definitely more than that.)
overall. this book is an absolute masterpiece for people who do enjoy light hearted stuff. and shanti’s writing is so beautiful. i will recommend their books to others who do like this type of genre.
thank you shanti for letting me read this masterpiece before it gets released x
October 4, 2023
Shanti Hershenson writes about a forty-eight-hour time travel experience in her fictional novel Helipads in Heaven. At Valley Park Preparatory School, Dillon “Goose” Hershkop daydreams about a fantastical world and her teacher and classmates don’t value her work or feelings. As an adult, Dillon is more appreciated for her talents, as she lives in luxury with her husband and two children. She feels incomplete, so she jumps at the chance to be part of a time-travel project. The time machine sends her to a fragile part of her life where she watches her ten-year-old self bullied for her creativity. A chance to intervene presents itself at the helipads and school, and Dillion must make a choice that could alter the rest of her life.
In a book that seems to reflect some moments in her life, Shanti Hershenson writes in a tone that is wiser than her fifteen years. With raw emotion and a fresh perspective, Hershenson delivers a powerful story about childhood trauma and bullying. I embraced the novel with tears for the author and the incidents that may have precipitated its creation. Hershenson has a clear vocabulary and a strong grasp of the characters’ emotional spectrum. Time travel can be a technical difficulty for some authors, but Hershenson touches on just enough of the subject to produce a believable experience. The story is a good conversation starter for middle- and high-schoolers who are tormented over their individuality and unique gifts. Helipads in Heaven is a great selection for readers who enjoy science fiction and magical realism.
In a book that seems to reflect some moments in her life, Shanti Hershenson writes in a tone that is wiser than her fifteen years. With raw emotion and a fresh perspective, Hershenson delivers a powerful story about childhood trauma and bullying. I embraced the novel with tears for the author and the incidents that may have precipitated its creation. Hershenson has a clear vocabulary and a strong grasp of the characters’ emotional spectrum. Time travel can be a technical difficulty for some authors, but Hershenson touches on just enough of the subject to produce a believable experience. The story is a good conversation starter for middle- and high-schoolers who are tormented over their individuality and unique gifts. Helipads in Heaven is a great selection for readers who enjoy science fiction and magical realism.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews