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Forever Thirteen
What would you do if you died before you could ever really experience life?
This is Joey's story, a thirteen-year-old boy stuck on the other side of life and mourning the loss of everything he never got to be. Instead, he's just a short, chubby, geeky boy...forever. And he's certain that there's no worse fate. But when Joey takes a peek at those he left behind, he becomes aware of just how bad his best friend Cameron is taking his death - and how no one seems to be noticing. As the kids at school get more creative in their cruelty, Cameron plummets deeper into depression and self-destruction. Joey realizes if he doesn't step in, Cameron is going to do something he can't take back.
And there are limits, because there is only so much a spirit can do in the world of the living.
Forever Thirteen tells the tale of a boy who lived his life in fear of other people's opinions of him, dying before he understood that he was the one holding himself back. In his death, Joey discovers that it's never too late to make things better, and he learns just how strong the bonds of friendship really can be.
This book is the follow-up / companion novel to A Symphony of Cicadas.
This is Joey's story, a thirteen-year-old boy stuck on the other side of life and mourning the loss of everything he never got to be. Instead, he's just a short, chubby, geeky boy...forever. And he's certain that there's no worse fate. But when Joey takes a peek at those he left behind, he becomes aware of just how bad his best friend Cameron is taking his death - and how no one seems to be noticing. As the kids at school get more creative in their cruelty, Cameron plummets deeper into depression and self-destruction. Joey realizes if he doesn't step in, Cameron is going to do something he can't take back.
And there are limits, because there is only so much a spirit can do in the world of the living.
Forever Thirteen tells the tale of a boy who lived his life in fear of other people's opinions of him, dying before he understood that he was the one holding himself back. In his death, Joey discovers that it's never too late to make things better, and he learns just how strong the bonds of friendship really can be.
This book is the follow-up / companion novel to A Symphony of Cicadas.
417 pages, Paperback
First published March 11, 2014
1 person is currently reading
486 people want to read
About the author
Crissi Langwell
24 books177 followersCrissi Langwell is a multi-genre author whose work spans romance, women’s fiction, and speculative storytelling, all centered on deeply human characters and heartfelt emotional journeys. From her award-winning Sunset Bay series to her newest small-town Lahoma Springs romances, her novels blend heartache, hope, and humor into stories that feel both intimate and real.
A longtime advocate for creative community, Crissi serves as president of Redwood Writers, where she helps authors find connection, courage, and their own storytelling voice. Off the page, she juggles a full, rewarding life as a writer, caregiver, and communications director, often pulling inspiration from everyday moments and relatable struggles. She is also creator of Love Letters to Writers, a Substack community for those who are juggling inspiration and struggle with their writing life.
She makes her home in Northern California with her writerly husband, their Maine Coon cat Cleo, and a chair of laundry that really needs to get its act together.
A longtime advocate for creative community, Crissi serves as president of Redwood Writers, where she helps authors find connection, courage, and their own storytelling voice. Off the page, she juggles a full, rewarding life as a writer, caregiver, and communications director, often pulling inspiration from everyday moments and relatable struggles. She is also creator of Love Letters to Writers, a Substack community for those who are juggling inspiration and struggle with their writing life.
She makes her home in Northern California with her writerly husband, their Maine Coon cat Cleo, and a chair of laundry that really needs to get its act together.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
March 12, 2014
Having already read A Symphony of Cicadas: Sometimes the End Is Just the Beginning, I was eagerly anticipating this follow up. However, follow up is not the correct term. This was a parallel to the first book, and like the first book, had me hooked from beginning to end. From the very beginning I was transported to the parallel spritual realm that Crissi has made so incredibly believeable. Finally being able to follow Joeys journey was amazing. She has a fantastic way of tying everyone and everything together in a way, that still allows for surprises later in her stories. I laughed, cried, and everything in-between. Fantastic Author, Fantastic Story.
March 5, 2014
When reading a sequel, there is always the question lurking in the back of one's mind: will it measure up to the original story? Well, I have to say that "Forever Thirteen" definitely measured up to Crissi Langwell's previous novel, "A Symphony of Cicadas". Written from the point of view of a newly deceased 13 year old, this brand new book gives closure to a number of open ends, adds a few twists of its own and keeps you from putting it down as you experience another other-worldly adventure, evoking sympathy, laughter and causing you look through new eyes at the teenagers in your path.
Wonderful ingredients mixed to make another amazing Langwell read!
Wonderful ingredients mixed to make another amazing Langwell read!
July 14, 2015
Synopsis: Joey died when he was thirteen.
This is where the story begins – a boy on the other side of life, stuck at the awkward age of thirteen, mourning the loss of everything he never got to be. Instead, he’s just a short, chubby, geeky boy…forever. And he’s certain that there’s no worse fate. But when Joey takes a peek at those he left behind, he becomes aware of just how bad his best friend, Cameron, is taking his death.
Joey watches as his friend plummets deeper into depression and self-destruction, with no one around him noticing how bad things are getting. He realizes that if he doesn’t step in, Cameron is going to do something he can never take back. But there is only so much a spirit can do in the world of the living. Still, Joey is determined. Enlisting the help of a few new friends in the afterlife, Joey sets forth on a journey to bridge the gap between the living and the dead, and save his grief-stricken friend from going under. In so doing, Joey learns more about who he was in life, and he learns that growth is still possible in a world where aging isn’t an option.
Forever Thirteen tells the tale of a boy who lived his life in fear of other people’s opinions of him, dying before he understood that he was the one holding himself back. In his death, Joey discovers that it’s never too late to make things better, and he learns just how strong the bonds of friendship really can be.
Before I start my review, I would like to thank Crissi Langwell for sending me Forever 13 and Everything I am Not Saying! It was an extremely kind gesture that she made to send me both the print copies.
Anyway, I had just finished the first book I had received which was Forever 13. I enjoyed Forever 13 immensely! I thought the world that Crissi had made was phenomenal. The description Crissi used for the after world was written beautifully. I also enjoyed the characters of the story as well. Overall I give the story 4/5 STARS! Here's why:
PLOT
The plot to this story was very interesting! I thought the book’s concept was extremely creative. I appreciate how Crissi made the story feel genuine in a way and how it was easy to connect with Joey! There were a few slow spots in the novel but it didn't damage the plot in any way. My favorite thing about the story was the crazy amount of plot twists!
4/5 STARS
CHARACTERS
I thought the characters were very interesting! They all had there own unique personalities, which I was thankful for. The character development throughout this novel for Joey and Cameron were well written!
5/5 STARS
CHARACTER’S RELATIONSHIPS
I am not going to spoil anything so I am going to keep this short. I thought the friendships between everyone was perfect. However I did not like how fast certain romantic relationships developed since it felt a little rushed.
4/5 STARS
Overall, I highly recommend this novel! Crissi is definitely a talented writer and I cannot wait to read Everything I am Not Saying!
August 1, 2014
Forever Thirteen is a very rewarding read. The companion novel to the author’s debut A Symphony of Cicadas answers the question “What happened to Joey”, as well as many others. In a similar genre of The Lovely Bones, this tale follows the protagonist Joey, as he navigates the after life. He also follows his best friend’s struggle to deal with Joey’s sudden tragic death, as well as the difficulties and emotions of being thirteen. I found myself caring for the characters, enjoying the fast moving plot, and accepting the relative believability of the story.
I really loved this book, more than the companion book because I so identified with Joey. I remember being thirteen and being an outcast, a nerd, often bullied, and feeling outside from the ‘popular’ kids in school. The at times poignant intertwining of love and connection embraces the acceptance we can allow for ourselves and the redemption we can extend to others. I appreciated the idea how even in the after life we can grow and discover what it really means to be human, compassionate, and live our lives authentically from our hearts. We only have to open up and tear down the walls we construct to embrace this. As one character says to another says to Joey’s best friend, “There is always something good, even in the bleakest of times. You just have to allow it to reach you by refusing to build walls around you to keep everything out.” Indeed.
I am looking forward to more from this talented new author.
I really loved this book, more than the companion book because I so identified with Joey. I remember being thirteen and being an outcast, a nerd, often bullied, and feeling outside from the ‘popular’ kids in school. The at times poignant intertwining of love and connection embraces the acceptance we can allow for ourselves and the redemption we can extend to others. I appreciated the idea how even in the after life we can grow and discover what it really means to be human, compassionate, and live our lives authentically from our hearts. We only have to open up and tear down the walls we construct to embrace this. As one character says to another says to Joey’s best friend, “There is always something good, even in the bleakest of times. You just have to allow it to reach you by refusing to build walls around you to keep everything out.” Indeed.
I am looking forward to more from this talented new author.
September 10, 2014
Forever Thirteen is a fantasy, or is it para-normal, or maybe it’s non-fiction and there really is an afterlife. There certainly is in this delightful novel by Crissi Langwell. Most of the characters in the story are dead, but that’s not bad. They exist just like you or me except for a few limitations: most of them can’t talk to the living and most of them can’t connect physically with our living world. Thus lies the problem for our thirteen-year-old protagonist, Joey. He’s dead and he can’t talk to his best friend, Cameron, who is alive. That’s distressing because Cameron is super depressed about losing his best friend, Joey.
The author makes this an enjoyable and exciting adventure for Joey and
the reader. The afterlife construct is very much like world building. It’s kind-of-a between existence, like Limbo or Purgatory without the fire. Furthermore, being in the afterlife has the advantage of instant travel to wherever you imagine: No waiting, no TSA, no luggage carousals. Just think about a place and you’re there. Neat!
Other interesting characters include: August who is kind of Joey’s multiple generational brother, Kayla who is not who she is, and Thelma who is not quite alive and not quite dead. It’s a nicely crafted story, well written, with many lovely descriptive lines. I thought Joey’s voice was a bit too mature for thirteen, so I’d rename the book Forever Seventeen. Regardless, it was a good read and I recommend it.
The author makes this an enjoyable and exciting adventure for Joey and
the reader. The afterlife construct is very much like world building. It’s kind-of-a between existence, like Limbo or Purgatory without the fire. Furthermore, being in the afterlife has the advantage of instant travel to wherever you imagine: No waiting, no TSA, no luggage carousals. Just think about a place and you’re there. Neat!
Other interesting characters include: August who is kind of Joey’s multiple generational brother, Kayla who is not who she is, and Thelma who is not quite alive and not quite dead. It’s a nicely crafted story, well written, with many lovely descriptive lines. I thought Joey’s voice was a bit too mature for thirteen, so I’d rename the book Forever Seventeen. Regardless, it was a good read and I recommend it.
July 5, 2014
I received my copy of Forever Thirteen in exchange for an honest review through goodreads R2R program. Let me preface this by saying that I did not read the prequel to this book, nor did I know about it until after I finished this book. I flat-out loved the story. The book was well written and the author did an excellent job of developing the characters and making them seem real. I loved how the author took on relevant topics aggressively (bullying, self-esteem) and in more subtle fashions (addictions, faith).
As far as negatives, just a couple. First, I thought this particular book (remember I know nothing about the prequel), could have done without the bit about reincarnation. I don't say this from a religious standpoint, but rather just thought it muddies things a bit. For me it raised questions as to why Joey's mom was more important to know about than Jeb and August's mother. Secondly, formatting issues. The text on my Ibooks version constantly switched font sizes. It was very distracting for me (may not be for others).
All in all, I would absolutely recommend Forever Thirteen, and congratulate the author on a very nice story.
As far as negatives, just a couple. First, I thought this particular book (remember I know nothing about the prequel), could have done without the bit about reincarnation. I don't say this from a religious standpoint, but rather just thought it muddies things a bit. For me it raised questions as to why Joey's mom was more important to know about than Jeb and August's mother. Secondly, formatting issues. The text on my Ibooks version constantly switched font sizes. It was very distracting for me (may not be for others).
All in all, I would absolutely recommend Forever Thirteen, and congratulate the author on a very nice story.
October 14, 2014
I received this book in exchange for an honest review (LoP or Lovers of Paranormal)
I had no idea what this book was really about when I decided to read it. I didn't read the first book but thought I'd give it a try. I'm really glad I did!
This book took me a long time to read because there were parts in this book that made me incredibly sad for Cameron. The story is so well written that there were a few times I had to put the book down so I could digest my emotions about the scene that just happened in my mind. I loved that about this book, even though it was at times difficult to endure. The characters are really well developed and for a thirteen year old; Joey and Cameron seem much older in the book. There wasn't anything that I didn't like about the book. I would highly recommend this book if you want a suspenseful, dramatic coming of age novel to read.
Thanks for sharing your work with me Crissi!
I had no idea what this book was really about when I decided to read it. I didn't read the first book but thought I'd give it a try. I'm really glad I did!
This book took me a long time to read because there were parts in this book that made me incredibly sad for Cameron. The story is so well written that there were a few times I had to put the book down so I could digest my emotions about the scene that just happened in my mind. I loved that about this book, even though it was at times difficult to endure. The characters are really well developed and for a thirteen year old; Joey and Cameron seem much older in the book. There wasn't anything that I didn't like about the book. I would highly recommend this book if you want a suspenseful, dramatic coming of age novel to read.
Thanks for sharing your work with me Crissi!
March 11, 2014
Crissi Langwell's novel Forever Thirteen is beautiful inside and out. The cover is absolutely breathtaking! I was so delighted to have a copy of this book before it's officially released. What I love the most is that you don't have to read her first novel A Symphony of Cicadas before reading this book, although I did and I loved that story too! I very strongly recommend both novels because they are tied together so beautifully, yet are independent stories. Crissi has an amazing gift of not only writing, but capturing the reader and taking them on an adventure.
You should be very proud of yourself, Crissi! Much love and success to you!
You should be very proud of yourself, Crissi! Much love and success to you!
September 23, 2014
I received this book in exchange for an honest review (LOP –Lovers of Paranormal)
Crissi Langwell is already my favorite author, after I've read Symphony of Cicadas.
The story of recently deceased Joey, his struggle (of the afterlife) and those who close to him after his death is really moving.
At first I thought, I can go through this book without being emotional, but I was wrong.
The character was well developed and well written, I barely can put this book down!
This book is recommended to all my friends and readers out there!
Pick it up!!!!
Crissi Langwell is already my favorite author, after I've read Symphony of Cicadas.
The story of recently deceased Joey, his struggle (of the afterlife) and those who close to him after his death is really moving.
At first I thought, I can go through this book without being emotional, but I was wrong.
The character was well developed and well written, I barely can put this book down!
This book is recommended to all my friends and readers out there!
Pick it up!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2014
I received this book in exchange for an honest review (LOP –Lovers of Paranormal)
Firstly, I found out after finishing this book that it was a sequel to A Symphony of Cicadas, a book that I haven’t read (yet). That being said, to me the book didn’t feel as if it was a sequel and I thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish. I have nothing but praise for this book. Crissi certainly has a way with words, every scene was so well thought out and described that the world around me disappeared and I became totally engrossed in the story.
The characters were well rounded and both Joey and Cameron seemed to be more mature than their thirteen years. This was one of those stories that you think about long after you’ve read it. I still think about the scene in the first chapter when Joey is lying with his body, it was heart-breaking. It’s a scene that I will not forget for a very long time.
I would (and have) recommend this book to everyone, Crissi Langwell is now a new favourite of mine and I look forward to reading her future work. Well done.
Firstly, I found out after finishing this book that it was a sequel to A Symphony of Cicadas, a book that I haven’t read (yet). That being said, to me the book didn’t feel as if it was a sequel and I thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish. I have nothing but praise for this book. Crissi certainly has a way with words, every scene was so well thought out and described that the world around me disappeared and I became totally engrossed in the story.
The characters were well rounded and both Joey and Cameron seemed to be more mature than their thirteen years. This was one of those stories that you think about long after you’ve read it. I still think about the scene in the first chapter when Joey is lying with his body, it was heart-breaking. It’s a scene that I will not forget for a very long time.
I would (and have) recommend this book to everyone, Crissi Langwell is now a new favourite of mine and I look forward to reading her future work. Well done.
September 3, 2014
I received this book in exchange for an honest review (LoP or Lovers of Paranormal)
Having read A Symphony of Cicadas I was looking forward to finding out what happened to Joey. I actually preferred this book to the first.
The novel is well written and easy to follow. I was gripped from the beginning and devoured this much quicker than 'SofC' What I had found was that whilst reading the first book I was forever wondering where Joey had gone and Rachel wound me up with her inability to think of her son over John. So, this book was refreshing as I finally found out what happened to Joey.
I would recommend reading both books to get a full picture of the story.
Having read A Symphony of Cicadas I was looking forward to finding out what happened to Joey. I actually preferred this book to the first.
The novel is well written and easy to follow. I was gripped from the beginning and devoured this much quicker than 'SofC' What I had found was that whilst reading the first book I was forever wondering where Joey had gone and Rachel wound me up with her inability to think of her son over John. So, this book was refreshing as I finally found out what happened to Joey.
I would recommend reading both books to get a full picture of the story.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews