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Count on Me #1
Count on Me
There are people that tell you high school is the best time of your life.
They lied.
High school is horrible when you’re like me and you’re autistic.
They think that because I don’t talk and I seem to always be lost in my own world, I’m stupid or deaf. Some even think I’m retarded. I’m none of those things and I don’t like that word.
Just because I've got these issues, doesn't mean it’s all I am. There’s a lot more to me, but no one really takes the time to get to know it. At least that’s how it was until Kayden.
Kayden Walker is bad news. He spends his time making people that are different, like me, feel even worse about themselves and he does it with a smile. He’s everything I don’t need in my life, yet he’s the one person I can’t seem to live without.
Underneath, there’s more to him that he’s afraid to let the rest of the world see. I've seen it and as I’m finding out, we’re not so different after all.
They lied.
High school is horrible when you’re like me and you’re autistic.
They think that because I don’t talk and I seem to always be lost in my own world, I’m stupid or deaf. Some even think I’m retarded. I’m none of those things and I don’t like that word.
Just because I've got these issues, doesn't mean it’s all I am. There’s a lot more to me, but no one really takes the time to get to know it. At least that’s how it was until Kayden.
Kayden Walker is bad news. He spends his time making people that are different, like me, feel even worse about themselves and he does it with a smile. He’s everything I don’t need in my life, yet he’s the one person I can’t seem to live without.
Underneath, there’s more to him that he’s afraid to let the rest of the world see. I've seen it and as I’m finding out, we’re not so different after all.
237 pages, ebook
First published April 19, 2014
27 people are currently reading
1079 people want to read
About the author
Melyssa Winchester
32 books240 followersMother, Sister, Daughter, Best Friend, Avid Book Reader, Author, Overall Crazy Person.
I'm Melyssa and I was born and raised in what is now known as the mega city of Toronto, Ontario, Canada. I'm the country girl stuck in the city girls body and anytime I can get away from the big city lights and settle somewhere far more slower is always such a treat.
I'm a mother to probably the four most amazing kids on the planet. (Yes that's a typical mom answer isn't it?) They have brought so much joy to my life and without them I'm not entirely sure where or what I'd be doing. They've taught me so much that I only hope I can do the same for them as they grow.
When I'm not with them I'm doing one of two things. Either curled up with my e-reader and as many books as I can handle or watching marathons of Supernatural, Sons of Anarchy or Veronica Mars.
Lastly, I'm always on the lookout for my next book boyfriend, even if I have to create him in my own stories. can't go wrong with a good book boyfriend. :)
I'm Melyssa and I was born and raised in what is now known as the mega city of Toronto, Ontario, Canada. I'm the country girl stuck in the city girls body and anytime I can get away from the big city lights and settle somewhere far more slower is always such a treat.
I'm a mother to probably the four most amazing kids on the planet. (Yes that's a typical mom answer isn't it?) They have brought so much joy to my life and without them I'm not entirely sure where or what I'd be doing. They've taught me so much that I only hope I can do the same for them as they grow.
When I'm not with them I'm doing one of two things. Either curled up with my e-reader and as many books as I can handle or watching marathons of Supernatural, Sons of Anarchy or Veronica Mars.
Lastly, I'm always on the lookout for my next book boyfriend, even if I have to create him in my own stories. can't go wrong with a good book boyfriend. :)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews
October 16, 2014
It is very emotional, heartbreaking and painful book. It is a story about Isabelle, a girl with autism being bullied in high school. And about Kayden, a boy, who is a bully.
She is shy, quiet and has social anxiety, but is not in any way stupid or dumb or retarded or deaf or mute or slow or defective or.... (see? it is awful listing all the names she was called, imagine reading it...) Attending school is a horrible experience for her, she just wants to stay invisible and not being picked on. Every day is a struggle to survive without being embarrased and hurt.
He is popular football jock, tough and confident, he hurts others with a smile on his face. But behind the mask is a broken boy who is dealing with drunk brother and loneliness. He puts on facade to fool everyone that his life is great, while in fact, it is empty and miserable. He used to be Isabelle's friend as a little kid but became one of her enemies later on.
Everything changes one day, when Kayden can no longer stand the treatment she gets from his bullying friends and saves her from attack. He spends more and more time with her and somehow becomes her guard. There is still a lot of drama on the way but there is also beautiful friendship and then relationship. Besides being rough, this book also gives hope, that every one can change for the better, given a chance.
The book is strict YA and there was no smutt, just stolen kisses, but I didn't miss it here. The story itself is good to keep your attention and got me curious enough to read other books in this series.
This is one of a few books I have read recently, that is dealing with bullying. And I'm glad that more and more people advert attention to this hard subject, because it seriously starts to scare the crap out of me. I have a little daughter who will soon go to school and I am terrified of what is going on with kids nowadays. It's obvious that besides schoolkids, others in school must know that this things happen, it's impossible not to. I am just wondering where the hell are the teachers and where the hell are the parents to protect those kids from each other??? When I was in high school, such thing as bullying was UNTHINKABLE, I mean sure, there were few who tried but reactions were immediate, consequences severe so not many were bold enough to bully because of the punishement they were bound to receive.
Sorry for this private digression, but as I said above, the whole thing scares me shitless and my kid is only six, I think I will be gray by the time she goes to high school:(
July 12, 2015
♫"I'm not a perfect person,
As many things I wish I didn't do.
But I continue learning,
I never meant to do those things to you .."♫
Wow. What a ride this book was! I have NO WORDS to express how I'm feeling right now. The book opened my eyes to so many things. It was Awe inspiring :)
#My Isabelle#
#My Kayden#
What's the book about ?
AUTISM. CHILD ABUSE. BULLING. JOURNEY. LOVE. CHANGE.
I usually steer clear from books about bulling. It hits too close to home. To makes matters worse, the hero is the bully. But, Despite all of it, there was something that pulled me to this book. Not sure what, I have never read this author works before, but the book called to me, and what can I do? I went ;)
And I must say - I'm so GLAD I did!! This was one of the best books I had the pleasure to read this year <3
The book start with our hero Kayden. He lives with his alcoholic brother who's beating him 5 days from 7. His mom left them when he was young. His an asshole with a capital A. He and his friends rule the school and bulling weak kids for their own enjoyment. He was the one who teached them everything they know. At the beginning of the book, he got caught up in a crossroad, where he has to decide whether to ignore and turn a blind eye, or risk it all for one girl.
The girl he torture and bullied for 8 years. His neighbor. His childhood friend.
"I'm not that guy. I'm not the one that protects the girl, shielding her from the typical high school bullshit. No, I'm the one that's creating it and making as many lives as possible horrible for my own personal amusement. As much as I try to remember that thought, it seems around her, I can't. All I want to do is be that guy, the one I can never be."
While reading, I didn't know what to feel about him. Hate him? Hug him? Love him? Hit him? Take her away from him? Swoon over him? To say that My emotions were all over the place would be the understatement of the year.
He made his decision . He couldn't walk away. He helped her. He stood against his friends and risked his reputation, his friendships, all his achievements to help a girl he didn't even care about. Or so he thought. Something about her made him want to help her. protect her. He couldn't let anyone hurt her on his watch. Not even his friends. Not even him.
♫"I'm sorry that I hurt you,
It's something I must live with everyday.
And all the pain I put you through,
I wish that I could take it all away.
And be the one who catches all your tears.."♫
Isabelle. My god. I wanted to take this girl, put her in my pocket, shield her from the world, and don't let anyone hurt her ever again. I always heard about autism but never took a chance to sit and actually understand it. IBeen inside her head. Feel her fears. Her struggles. Her dread. Her accidents. Her Despair. Her scary thoughts. It made my heart HURT. She can't talk to strangers and people in general. It's hard for her to express her feelings. Her home is her safe heaven - she can talk freely and it's were she feels safe. She's weak but strong at the same time. I was impressed with her so much throughout the book.
Reading this book made me feel SO MUCH! I actually needed to take a break (Mariam your a life saver lol) .. I couldn't keep going. My stomach was in knots. Been inside her head really wrecked me. The bulling was hard to read. It was RAW. It was UGLY. It was REAL. I think the author did an amazing job Conveying all the feelings through her writing. I felt every single emotion they felt.
“We’re all a little weird, Isabelle. It’s our differences that make us unique and you shouldn’t let anyone, even a boy you might like, tell you anything different.”
After helping her and taking her home, Kayden decided to keep and protecting her. He knew things can't stay the way they are. It was always verbal with her, never Physical. When he saw his friends bully her Physically he couldn't let it go. Isabelle, on the other side, felt Suspicion over his actions and change of behavior. What made him turn up 90 degrees?! For 8 years all he ever did was bulling her, why suddenly he changed his ways and became her knight in shining armor?
“It’s not pity, Isabelle. It’s survival. I’m not letting you go through this alone. I’ll see you at eleven.”
Due to her speaking difficulty, they communicate with the help of paper and SMS, he ask, she write .. It was so cute. They understood each other without saying a word. They had their own special language <3
The days passed, and their relationship grew, he saw something in her, and wanted to know everything about her and her autism. She started to see glimpse of the little boy next door who used to be her friend.
“The first real memory I have, is one of the first times I was old enough to remember being at your house. We must have been about three, maybe four. I came and sat down beside you while you were playing and it’s like, even then, you knew I wasn’t anything special because you just ignored the hell out of me.”
While their love was building I was feeling it was the calm before the storm. He was going to protect her no matter what, but what happens when monsters are lurking in the dark and doing everything they can to break them apart? And worse, what will happen when who you used to be will come and hunt who you are now?
"she's mine. I don't care whose noticing her, they aren't getting her. Ever."
Without giving too much away, this book was fantastic. It deals with so much More! The journey both characters went trough is so inspiring, who they were at the beginning are not who they end up be at the end of the book.
The road was though and things will be worse before they get better. But the author gives us HOPE. She give us the promise that the sweet destination gonna make it all up.
So don't hesitate ! Grab a copy and read it! I can promise you, at the end of the book you will add a new book boyfriend to your list ;)
♫"I've found a reason for me,
To change who I used to be.
A reason to start over new,
and the reason is you.
I've found a reason to show,
A side of me you didn't know.
A reason for all that I do,
And the reason is you."♫
“It’s okay to have differences, to not be like everyone else around you. It doesn’t make you weaker or less worthy than anyone else that might appear normal. It is what it is. You’re just different. At the end of the day, we all want the exact same things in life and I think Isabelle and I are living proof of that.”
As many things I wish I didn't do.
But I continue learning,
I never meant to do those things to you .."♫
Wow. What a ride this book was! I have NO WORDS to express how I'm feeling right now. The book opened my eyes to so many things. It was Awe inspiring :)
#My Isabelle#
#My Kayden#
What's the book about ?
AUTISM. CHILD ABUSE. BULLING. JOURNEY. LOVE. CHANGE.
I usually steer clear from books about bulling. It hits too close to home. To makes matters worse, the hero is the bully. But, Despite all of it, there was something that pulled me to this book. Not sure what, I have never read this author works before, but the book called to me, and what can I do? I went ;)
And I must say - I'm so GLAD I did!! This was one of the best books I had the pleasure to read this year <3
The book start with our hero Kayden. He lives with his alcoholic brother who's beating him 5 days from 7. His mom left them when he was young. His an asshole with a capital A. He and his friends rule the school and bulling weak kids for their own enjoyment. He was the one who teached them everything they know. At the beginning of the book, he got caught up in a crossroad, where he has to decide whether to ignore and turn a blind eye, or risk it all for one girl.
The girl he torture and bullied for 8 years. His neighbor. His childhood friend.
"I'm not that guy. I'm not the one that protects the girl, shielding her from the typical high school bullshit. No, I'm the one that's creating it and making as many lives as possible horrible for my own personal amusement. As much as I try to remember that thought, it seems around her, I can't. All I want to do is be that guy, the one I can never be."
While reading, I didn't know what to feel about him. Hate him? Hug him? Love him? Hit him? Take her away from him? Swoon over him? To say that My emotions were all over the place would be the understatement of the year.
He made his decision . He couldn't walk away. He helped her. He stood against his friends and risked his reputation, his friendships, all his achievements to help a girl he didn't even care about. Or so he thought. Something about her made him want to help her. protect her. He couldn't let anyone hurt her on his watch. Not even his friends. Not even him.
♫"I'm sorry that I hurt you,
It's something I must live with everyday.
And all the pain I put you through,
I wish that I could take it all away.
And be the one who catches all your tears.."♫
Isabelle. My god. I wanted to take this girl, put her in my pocket, shield her from the world, and don't let anyone hurt her ever again. I always heard about autism but never took a chance to sit and actually understand it. IBeen inside her head. Feel her fears. Her struggles. Her dread. Her accidents. Her Despair. Her scary thoughts. It made my heart HURT. She can't talk to strangers and people in general. It's hard for her to express her feelings. Her home is her safe heaven - she can talk freely and it's were she feels safe. She's weak but strong at the same time. I was impressed with her so much throughout the book.
Reading this book made me feel SO MUCH! I actually needed to take a break (Mariam your a life saver lol) .. I couldn't keep going. My stomach was in knots. Been inside her head really wrecked me. The bulling was hard to read. It was RAW. It was UGLY. It was REAL. I think the author did an amazing job Conveying all the feelings through her writing. I felt every single emotion they felt.
“We’re all a little weird, Isabelle. It’s our differences that make us unique and you shouldn’t let anyone, even a boy you might like, tell you anything different.”
After helping her and taking her home, Kayden decided to keep and protecting her. He knew things can't stay the way they are. It was always verbal with her, never Physical. When he saw his friends bully her Physically he couldn't let it go. Isabelle, on the other side, felt Suspicion over his actions and change of behavior. What made him turn up 90 degrees?! For 8 years all he ever did was bulling her, why suddenly he changed his ways and became her knight in shining armor?
“It’s not pity, Isabelle. It’s survival. I’m not letting you go through this alone. I’ll see you at eleven.”
Due to her speaking difficulty, they communicate with the help of paper and SMS, he ask, she write .. It was so cute. They understood each other without saying a word. They had their own special language <3
The days passed, and their relationship grew, he saw something in her, and wanted to know everything about her and her autism. She started to see glimpse of the little boy next door who used to be her friend.
“The first real memory I have, is one of the first times I was old enough to remember being at your house. We must have been about three, maybe four. I came and sat down beside you while you were playing and it’s like, even then, you knew I wasn’t anything special because you just ignored the hell out of me.”
While their love was building I was feeling it was the calm before the storm. He was going to protect her no matter what, but what happens when monsters are lurking in the dark and doing everything they can to break them apart? And worse, what will happen when who you used to be will come and hunt who you are now?
"she's mine. I don't care whose noticing her, they aren't getting her. Ever."
Without giving too much away, this book was fantastic. It deals with so much More! The journey both characters went trough is so inspiring, who they were at the beginning are not who they end up be at the end of the book.
The road was though and things will be worse before they get better. But the author gives us HOPE. She give us the promise that the sweet destination gonna make it all up.
So don't hesitate ! Grab a copy and read it! I can promise you, at the end of the book you will add a new book boyfriend to your list ;)
♫"I've found a reason for me,
To change who I used to be.
A reason to start over new,
and the reason is you.
I've found a reason to show,
A side of me you didn't know.
A reason for all that I do,
And the reason is you."♫
“It’s okay to have differences, to not be like everyone else around you. It doesn’t make you weaker or less worthy than anyone else that might appear normal. It is what it is. You’re just different. At the end of the day, we all want the exact same things in life and I think Isabelle and I are living proof of that.”
May 4, 2014
Title: Count on Me
Series: Standalone
Author: Melyssa Winchester
Release Date: April, 2014
Rating: 4 stars
Cliffhanger:. No.
HEA:
Count on Me is very emotional, heartbreaking and touching read. If Bully by Penelope Douglas had a love child with Reclaming The Sand by Meredith Walters this would be it.
It’s about pain, sorrow, loneliness and misunderstanding. It’s a novel that grabs your attention and pulls on the strings of your heart. It touched my soul.
I have never read Melyssa Winchester’s before, but this book definitely made me want to check out more of her work. It was so dark and painful and yet so full of hope, I devoured it in matter of hours.
Count on Me is about a seventeen year old girl that has an autism. Going to high school is a constant fight. High school is Isabelle’s personal hell. She only wants to survive another day. Bullying, teasing, calling names, beating it’s Isabelle everyday life. Nothing out of normal. Nothing extraordinary. While constantly trying to hide on school’s highways, Isabelle tries to understand her illness. Because she doesn’t think she’s retarded. She’s not dumb, she is definitely not deaf or mute. She has a brain and feelings. Why other kids don’t understand that?
Kayden is popular jock. He’s the bully that everyone is afraid of. He’s also a broken boy, that gets beaten at home by his drunk brother almost 5 days a week. He hates his life, yet he makes others miserable.
“I'm not that guy. I'm not the one that protects the girl, shielding her from the typical high school bullshit. No, I'm the one that's creating it and making as many lives as possible horrible for my own personal amusement. As much as I try to remember that thought, it seems around her, I can't. All I want to do is be that guy, the one I can never be."
One day, Kayden rescued Isabelle from his friends. And his world changes.
It was hard to understand Kayden and other popular kids. Not only was it was painful to read about shallow people like that, but also very disturbing. How can people be that merciless? So ruthless and disgusting? And then, how could I start to like and sympathize with Kayden?
And poor Isabelle? Jesus, I was so heartbroken while reading about her. The teasing I got while in school? It was laughable in comparison to what happened to her constantly.
“We’re all a little weird, Isabelle. It’s our differences that make us unique and you shouldn’t let anyone, even a boy you might like, tell you anything different.”
This book is more about friendship and survival than hot romance, but clearly Kayden and Isabelle’s relationship grows. I missed the steam a little bit, but didn’t mind that it lacked in sex department. Clearly, it is Young Adult novel.
Count on Me is a rough, bumpy ride. Emotional roller coaster that momentarily made me feel so empty and sad, but yet left me feeling hopeful too.
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February 17, 2018
Un libro dulce y tierno que trata temas como acoso y bullying escolar que sufren los estudiantes con autismo o personas con capacidades diferentes.
No puedo creer que existan personas tan abusivas que se meten y amedrentan con los que no se pueden defender 😡😠 aquí me dieron ganas de apalearme a más de tres.
Isabelle es una chica con autismo que es el blanco del acoso escolar a manos de los populares (abusones de la escuela) liderado por Kayden que es su vecino y que solía ser su mejor amigo pero un día la defiende y eso la hace que los demás se vuelvan más contra ella.
Fue una historia muuuy dulce demasiado en momento vomitando corazones y arcoiris 🌈💕 el amor a veces fue muy irreal pero reconozco que fue bonito.
Lo que no me gustó mucho fue la manera de tratar el autismo no fue tan realista, a veces me costaba asimilar que una persona con este tipo de trastorno tuviera ese tipo de comportamiento pero bueno tampoco es que sea experta 🙇
Pd: Va a ser difícil que pueda tomarle cariño al prota del siguiente libro cuando aquí era un matón enfermo. 😡
No puedo creer que existan personas tan abusivas que se meten y amedrentan con los que no se pueden defender 😡😠 aquí me dieron ganas de apalearme a más de tres.
Isabelle es una chica con autismo que es el blanco del acoso escolar a manos de los populares (abusones de la escuela) liderado por Kayden que es su vecino y que solía ser su mejor amigo pero un día la defiende y eso la hace que los demás se vuelvan más contra ella.
Fue una historia muuuy dulce demasiado en momento vomitando corazones y arcoiris 🌈💕 el amor a veces fue muy irreal pero reconozco que fue bonito.
Lo que no me gustó mucho fue la manera de tratar el autismo no fue tan realista, a veces me costaba asimilar que una persona con este tipo de trastorno tuviera ese tipo de comportamiento pero bueno tampoco es que sea experta 🙇
Pd: Va a ser difícil que pueda tomarle cariño al prota del siguiente libro cuando aquí era un matón enfermo. 😡
August 31, 2019
Bien, no niego que es un libro muy lindo a pesar de que trata temas fuerte s de hoy en día como es el bullyng, el romance también es lindo y dulce pero el problema fue que se me iso muy precipitado para mi gusto y que los personajes no me llegaran a convecer del todo, por eso le doy 3strellas porque si es cierto que como digo fue una hisoria bonita pero hasta ahí.
July 3, 2014
4.5 STARS
I want to thank the author Melyssa Winchester for:
A. writing this awesome book
B. for giving me a free e-book copy <3
“We’ve all been hurt by words before. So before you
speak, think about how your words might affect
someone else.” – Naya Rivera
I came across this series by chance and i'm so GLAD i did! I enjoyed every minute i spent reading it. This book has original written all over it. You guys know how much i care about this point in particular. These days everyone is "writing" something and calling it "novel" there is no originality anymore, and when i come across something awesome and unique it is my job to inform you.
One of the most things that grabbed my attention and loved about this book is the important message that it holds. Everything about this book is delivered in grace.
Count On Me is a novel about suffering, hardship, friends, family, love, and acceptance.
So this novel is about a girl named Isabelle. To be honest, personally i found her to be a perfect character, she's not perfect which i LOVE and appreciate. She's not the olala girl we read about alot these days. So this girl is autistic. And again what is cool about this book is that it opens your eyes to some things you never thought alot about before.
Belle is very smart girl, she's aware of everything that happens around her. I came to respect this character so very much. It's not easy to say that you actually respect a character and the reason i'm doing this because this character is real. We see her around in our lives. Maybe she's your sister, cousin, neighbor or even friend.
This book also shows- not that i didn't already know that- how HORRIBLE , and judgmental assholes people can be.
The people in Belle high school didn't exactly accept her with open arms. i mean come on! get the fuck over it, she's autistic! so. fucking.what!!
Instead of giving her help, and be nice to her they have TORMENTED her!
you see there is this "popular" gang and theri life goal is to make people "weaker" "different" people miserable hell. And they have, for a while with the help of Belle's childhood friend. Kayden Walker
People change especially when they move from being children to young adults, it's all in the process of being a young adult i guess. But here those kids are pushing each other to be the WORST they can be. Kayden got mixed up with his friends to be a bully. His home life is very bad but it's not an excuse for what they are doing. But reading his point of view - which if i say so myself - was effing awesome!
I'm so happy to see Kayden stand up against his friends although it cost him his "best friend" and what he knew for long time and he pushed through his comfortable zone so to speak to be with Belle and protect her. And not only that but he helped her grow and open up as a young woman.
Loved the character development very much which makes me can't wait to read the second book :D
LOVED LOVED LOVED and you guys know i wouldn't take this slightly. The books is awesome GO READ IT!
Share what you think after finishing it and we'll discuss it together.
I want to thank the author Melyssa Winchester for:
A. writing this awesome book
B. for giving me a free e-book copy <3
“We’ve all been hurt by words before. So before you
speak, think about how your words might affect
someone else.” – Naya Rivera
I came across this series by chance and i'm so GLAD i did! I enjoyed every minute i spent reading it. This book has original written all over it. You guys know how much i care about this point in particular. These days everyone is "writing" something and calling it "novel" there is no originality anymore, and when i come across something awesome and unique it is my job to inform you.
One of the most things that grabbed my attention and loved about this book is the important message that it holds. Everything about this book is delivered in grace.
Count On Me is a novel about suffering, hardship, friends, family, love, and acceptance.
So this novel is about a girl named Isabelle. To be honest, personally i found her to be a perfect character, she's not perfect which i LOVE and appreciate. She's not the olala girl we read about alot these days. So this girl is autistic. And again what is cool about this book is that it opens your eyes to some things you never thought alot about before.
Belle is very smart girl, she's aware of everything that happens around her. I came to respect this character so very much. It's not easy to say that you actually respect a character and the reason i'm doing this because this character is real. We see her around in our lives. Maybe she's your sister, cousin, neighbor or even friend.
This book also shows- not that i didn't already know that- how HORRIBLE , and judgmental assholes people can be.
The people in Belle high school didn't exactly accept her with open arms. i mean come on! get the fuck over it, she's autistic! so. fucking.what!!
Instead of giving her help, and be nice to her they have TORMENTED her!
you see there is this "popular" gang and theri life goal is to make people "weaker" "different" people miserable hell. And they have, for a while with the help of Belle's childhood friend. Kayden Walker
People change especially when they move from being children to young adults, it's all in the process of being a young adult i guess. But here those kids are pushing each other to be the WORST they can be. Kayden got mixed up with his friends to be a bully. His home life is very bad but it's not an excuse for what they are doing. But reading his point of view - which if i say so myself - was effing awesome!
I'm so happy to see Kayden stand up against his friends although it cost him his "best friend" and what he knew for long time and he pushed through his comfortable zone so to speak to be with Belle and protect her. And not only that but he helped her grow and open up as a young woman.
Loved the character development very much which makes me can't wait to read the second book :D
LOVED LOVED LOVED and you guys know i wouldn't take this slightly. The books is awesome GO READ IT!
Share what you think after finishing it and we'll discuss it together.
dnf
July 2, 2014I give up.
I made a valiant effort, but for some reason I am just not feeling this one. Maybe I've read too many books involving autism, bullying and teenage angst lately, but in the end...
Maybe I'll pick it up another day...
I made a valiant effort, but for some reason I am just not feeling this one. Maybe I've read too many books involving autism, bullying and teenage angst lately, but in the end...
Maybe I'll pick it up another day...
May 15, 2014
Count On Me Review
I have been waiting to read this book for a long time before it was even published. I am not disappointed at all from the long wait. It was everything I was expecting, no, it was even more.
Through it all I kept seeing things that reminded me of my younger brother, who is autistic, and every time I heard an insult to Isabelle I could feel myself going into a rage. I also saw much of myself in Kayden. Truthfully if someone tried to mess with my brother I’d kick the crap out of them with no hesitations. Actually, I have.
Count On Me hit hard while I was reading it, mostly because I just kept seeing the reason my brother is not in school. I have ADD so I’m lost in my own world a lot, and while it’s not the same at all, I still am able to relate slightly to Isabelle. Practically everything in this book went right through me and dove straight into my heart.
This book touched very sensitive subjects on autism that I have seen people blatantly ignore. And for that I would like to passionately thank the author. I wish more people would talk about these things as she has. I know completely it would not have been easy deciding to publish this, but I thank you for it. I couldn’t put the book down at all until I’d finished.
I remember when I was younger I used to wonder why my brother didn’t have as many friends as I did or why he was always treated differently. When my mother told me that he was autistic, she did not tell me exactly what it meant. Over the years I’ve made it my mission to find out. I babysat him most of the time while my mom was at school or settling things with my dad over their divorce. During that time I learned so much about my brother.
I learned about his triggers and how to calm him down. I learned about his routines and how hard it can be for him to process things. Once I had really spent all that time with him I became more protective of him than ever. I did my best to keep him away from all the sadness and anger that was inside of our house during those couple years. And even after that I always tried to take more of it so he could stay a kid longer.
I’ve realized over the past few months that he has been growing up without my realization. That he really has been making friends, that he’s almost as tall as me now. Reading this book makes me realize it even more.
For me, the term “Functioning” has always made me cringe. Even though in my head I know it’s become the way of explaining what level on the spectrum the person is. I still can’t help feeling a bit of anger, I was once in a conversation where these woman continuously talked in front of their children, speaking of them as if they were defective machines. They actually started talking to me, using these terms and referring to my brother who was outside of the room. I’ve never wanted to drop kick someone as much as I did then. I didn’t of course, instead I just politely answered their questions, making sure to avoid using the terms they had been using before. Eventually they left and I could let out the breath of anger I had been holding in.
My little brother is the most amazing thing that has ever happened to me, he is my best friend that always cheers me up. If I’m sad he’ll give me his special hug or his puppy dog eyes and everything bad that’s happened to me will melt away. If I see him cry over anything, my heart breaks. And I will do anything to be able to see that smile of his.
Count On Me is one of my favorite books, not just because it is so well written. But because the truth of it is so amazing I have tears streaming down my face as I’m writing this. The whole time I was reading Isabelle’s thoughts I kept seeing different situations that I’ve seen my brother in. I would recommend this to everyone I see. If they have autism or know something who has it. If you are a person who believes in a cure for it, well there are some choice words I would like to say to you, but I would tell you to read this book. I feel like there should be more things like this. More awareness, not more of “finding a cure”. If there were more people like Melyssa, then I think I would feel a lot less worried about who will hurt my brother next.
Thank you again for writing this book. That’s really all I can say, thank you. It’s surpassed every expectation I had and is a book I will be reading over and over again.
I have been waiting to read this book for a long time before it was even published. I am not disappointed at all from the long wait. It was everything I was expecting, no, it was even more.
Through it all I kept seeing things that reminded me of my younger brother, who is autistic, and every time I heard an insult to Isabelle I could feel myself going into a rage. I also saw much of myself in Kayden. Truthfully if someone tried to mess with my brother I’d kick the crap out of them with no hesitations. Actually, I have.
Count On Me hit hard while I was reading it, mostly because I just kept seeing the reason my brother is not in school. I have ADD so I’m lost in my own world a lot, and while it’s not the same at all, I still am able to relate slightly to Isabelle. Practically everything in this book went right through me and dove straight into my heart.
This book touched very sensitive subjects on autism that I have seen people blatantly ignore. And for that I would like to passionately thank the author. I wish more people would talk about these things as she has. I know completely it would not have been easy deciding to publish this, but I thank you for it. I couldn’t put the book down at all until I’d finished.
I remember when I was younger I used to wonder why my brother didn’t have as many friends as I did or why he was always treated differently. When my mother told me that he was autistic, she did not tell me exactly what it meant. Over the years I’ve made it my mission to find out. I babysat him most of the time while my mom was at school or settling things with my dad over their divorce. During that time I learned so much about my brother.
I learned about his triggers and how to calm him down. I learned about his routines and how hard it can be for him to process things. Once I had really spent all that time with him I became more protective of him than ever. I did my best to keep him away from all the sadness and anger that was inside of our house during those couple years. And even after that I always tried to take more of it so he could stay a kid longer.
I’ve realized over the past few months that he has been growing up without my realization. That he really has been making friends, that he’s almost as tall as me now. Reading this book makes me realize it even more.
For me, the term “Functioning” has always made me cringe. Even though in my head I know it’s become the way of explaining what level on the spectrum the person is. I still can’t help feeling a bit of anger, I was once in a conversation where these woman continuously talked in front of their children, speaking of them as if they were defective machines. They actually started talking to me, using these terms and referring to my brother who was outside of the room. I’ve never wanted to drop kick someone as much as I did then. I didn’t of course, instead I just politely answered their questions, making sure to avoid using the terms they had been using before. Eventually they left and I could let out the breath of anger I had been holding in.
My little brother is the most amazing thing that has ever happened to me, he is my best friend that always cheers me up. If I’m sad he’ll give me his special hug or his puppy dog eyes and everything bad that’s happened to me will melt away. If I see him cry over anything, my heart breaks. And I will do anything to be able to see that smile of his.
Count On Me is one of my favorite books, not just because it is so well written. But because the truth of it is so amazing I have tears streaming down my face as I’m writing this. The whole time I was reading Isabelle’s thoughts I kept seeing different situations that I’ve seen my brother in. I would recommend this to everyone I see. If they have autism or know something who has it. If you are a person who believes in a cure for it, well there are some choice words I would like to say to you, but I would tell you to read this book. I feel like there should be more things like this. More awareness, not more of “finding a cure”. If there were more people like Melyssa, then I think I would feel a lot less worried about who will hurt my brother next.
Thank you again for writing this book. That’s really all I can say, thank you. It’s surpassed every expectation I had and is a book I will be reading over and over again.
May 11, 2014
Isabelle Reagan is a high functioning autistic. She has been homeschooled until her mother thought it was time for her to attend high school. She is used to people calling her names including retard. She is very good in math, writing and drawing. She used to be friends with her neighbor Kayden Walker until 8 yrs ago. Now, he is just a bully.
"For a long time I hated you, but not because of the names you called me. I hated you because when you left that day almost eight years ago and never came back, you broke my heart. You were my only friend and I wasn’t enough for you. "
Kayden Walker lives with his alcoholic brother. His mother left them a long time ago and he doesn't even remember his dead beat dad. He is a football star and loves to torture people at school. That is until he sees his best friend hurting Isabelle, the girl he used to care about. When she screams he can't look away and instead of driving away he saves her.
Soon Kayden can't seem to stay away from the one true friend he had growing up. Even if it means loosing the popularity he has.
“The first real memory I have, is one of the first times I was old enough to remember being at your house. We must have been about three, maybe four. I came and sat down beside you while you were playing and it’s like, even then, you knew I wasn’t anything special because you just ignored the hell out of me.”
This is a powerful read. It touches 3 topics: autism, child abuse and bullying.
You will think that the hot guy's life, who is a bully, couldn't be any better. Not the case at all. I feel sorry for him and the lack of love in his life. He was surrounded by superficial relationships until he has Isabella and her family back in his life.
"Actions speak louder than words ever could, Kayden. If you’re really sorry, prove it."
It was sad to read about what Isabelle had to endure on a daily basis. In a way she was super strong. She forgave Kayden. It helped that she knew him before he became a bully.
As for Kayden, he completely redeems himself in my eyes. When Kayden loves, he loves deeply.
Very happy with the way things played out in this story.
“If Isabelle Reagan can take a guy like me and turn him into someone worthy of respect then it's mind blowing to think what she can do for the rest of the world. What we could do for it together. We might be able to change it.”
4/5 Fangs
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It
February 21, 2015
Count On Me es el primer libro de la serie con el mismo nombre de Melyssa Winchester, ademas de mi primera experiencia leyendo algo de la autora.
Tambien es el primer libro que leo que trata un tema tan delicado como el autismo, lo curioso es que hasta este libro pensaba que tenia una muy buena idea de lo que significaba tener autismo, pero si algo nos demuestra Count On Me es lo equivocada que esta la sociedad respecto a esta enfermedad.
Quede muy satisfecha con la forma que tiene la autora de tratar el tema, nos enseña lo dificil que es padecer la enfermedad, ademas de que tenemos un extra, puesto que con la narracion de Belle, vemos en primera persona lo que sienten las personas que desgraciadamente sufren esta condicion.
Ademas no creais que todo el libro es hablando del autismo, la autora crea un libro donde la historia de amor no queda en segundo plano por el tema principal, sino que liga los dos temas y aunque reconozco que en algunas ocasiones las escenas de Kayden y Belle se me hicieron un poco empalagozas, es una historia hermosa de amor y superacion.
En definitiva, Count On Me es un libro tierno, dulce, romantico y muy rapido de leer.
Totalmente Recomendado!
2.5 Estrellas!
April 6, 2015
This book hit close to home for me, and I'm glad I read it. It moved me, and I think the thing I took away with the most is - acceptance - not just in others, but in ourselves. Isabelle and Kayden both had to take that journey in similar ways and also in different ways.
I loved Isabelle from the very beginning. And was not a fan of Kayden's. But watching him grow into the person who he wanted to be touched my heart. And the first time Isabelle smiled was a beautiful moment. I smiled right along with her. And every smile after that was just as beautiful.
A truly moving and touching story of growth and learning to love.
I loved Isabelle from the very beginning. And was not a fan of Kayden's. But watching him grow into the person who he wanted to be touched my heart. And the first time Isabelle smiled was a beautiful moment. I smiled right along with her. And every smile after that was just as beautiful.
A truly moving and touching story of growth and learning to love.
December 17, 2014
Why isn't this book more famous??! It was such a great and lovely read for me. I think it is really well written and that storyline!! Amazing and so different, and unique, from what I've read before. I just loved it and I believe I'm going to be re-reading this for many years and would recommend it to everyone. Best book I read this year!
Thanks for the recommendation to Mandy. I wouldn't have known about this if it weren't for her.
**Will try to review this soon, but seriously have nothing but good things to say about this one.**
Thanks for the recommendation to Mandy. I wouldn't have known about this if it weren't for her.
**Will try to review this soon, but seriously have nothing but good things to say about this one.**
July 13, 2019
«Las acciones hablan más que las palabras, Kyden»
Isabelle es una chica con autismo que puede decirte realmente lo mal que se pasa en el instituto. Ella siempre ha recibido insultos, empujones y escuchado como se ríen de ella. Pero esta última vez es mucho peor... Hasta que la salva la última persona que esperaba, Kyden Walker.
Kyden no es un buen chico, él lo sabe. Ha participado en estas cosas, joder, él enseño a los demás a ser así con los más vulnerables, pero esta vez no puede soportar ver lo que le hacen a Isabella. Pero rebelarse contra su grupillo puede traerle consecuencias, a él y a ella.
La frase que os he dejado puede que no sea profunda, que así escrita no signifique nada, pero creedme, para los que hemos leído el libro sabemos que significa el mundo.
Puedo decir con toda seguridad que me he enamorado de esta historia, pero sobre todo me he enamorado de los personajes principales: de Kyden y de Isabelle. Kyden por fin le dio una vuelta a su vida para ser alguien mejor, pero Isabella? Ella es la puta ama. Osea, alguien que le monte un altar a la de ya! Amo a esta chica, amo su fuerza, su coraje, la amo por quien es y en verdad, la amo porque me hizo llorar como nunca. Este libro es duro, muy duro, no voy a mentiros. La lacra que es el bullying ya todos la conocemos pero con personas tan vulnerables como Isabella, dios, os odio de verdad. Mi corazón estuvo en un puño todo el libro, igual que mis lágrimas corriendo por mi cara. Sí que sentí que la relación de Kyden e Isabella empezó muy rápido dado como la torturaron y la ignoró durante 8 años, pero la verdad? No puedo dejar de darle un millón de estrellas.
Que si la recomiendo? Tantísimo, como obligatoriamente. Da mucho que pensar y mirarnos a nosotros mismos. Un aplauso por todas las Isabelle del mundo, que su valentía brille por siempre ❤️
Isabelle es una chica con autismo que puede decirte realmente lo mal que se pasa en el instituto. Ella siempre ha recibido insultos, empujones y escuchado como se ríen de ella. Pero esta última vez es mucho peor... Hasta que la salva la última persona que esperaba, Kyden Walker.
Kyden no es un buen chico, él lo sabe. Ha participado en estas cosas, joder, él enseño a los demás a ser así con los más vulnerables, pero esta vez no puede soportar ver lo que le hacen a Isabella. Pero rebelarse contra su grupillo puede traerle consecuencias, a él y a ella.
La frase que os he dejado puede que no sea profunda, que así escrita no signifique nada, pero creedme, para los que hemos leído el libro sabemos que significa el mundo.
Puedo decir con toda seguridad que me he enamorado de esta historia, pero sobre todo me he enamorado de los personajes principales: de Kyden y de Isabelle. Kyden por fin le dio una vuelta a su vida para ser alguien mejor, pero Isabella? Ella es la puta ama. Osea, alguien que le monte un altar a la de ya! Amo a esta chica, amo su fuerza, su coraje, la amo por quien es y en verdad, la amo porque me hizo llorar como nunca. Este libro es duro, muy duro, no voy a mentiros. La lacra que es el bullying ya todos la conocemos pero con personas tan vulnerables como Isabella, dios, os odio de verdad. Mi corazón estuvo en un puño todo el libro, igual que mis lágrimas corriendo por mi cara. Sí que sentí que la relación de Kyden e Isabella empezó muy rápido dado como la torturaron y la ignoró durante 8 años, pero la verdad? No puedo dejar de darle un millón de estrellas.
Que si la recomiendo? Tantísimo, como obligatoriamente. Da mucho que pensar y mirarnos a nosotros mismos. Un aplauso por todas las Isabelle del mundo, que su valentía brille por siempre ❤️
April 20, 2014
It took like 8 hrs off an on but finally finished this.
I had an advantage with this book because I got to see it before it became the final product it is now. I didn’t speak about it or review it then in the ARC stage or when I beta-read it because I knew in the end it would change and my opinion would change with it.
I was right.
This is not the same book I read in the beginning. It’s stronger, better and if you don’t listen to anything I say after this, remember these words before you read it.
It will change your life.
I came into this reading it as a one time bully. I was Kayden. I was Dillon. I was all of them combined which made this appeal even more to be because it was like looking in a mirror. Or going back in time to the old me.
There are three real life issues put into this book and they’re given equal face time throughout. The biggest is bullying, but there is also Autism and Child Abuse, both of which the lead characters experience.
Right from page one this story is touching. It will rip your heart out with the emotion behind every scene and it gets to a point where you don’t want to put it down because you don’t want to miss what happens next.
I don’t do crying but I cried with this book. Repeatedly.
It will open your eyes to bullying and the effects that it has but also opens your eyes to special needs individuals and how even though they may experience things in life that are different from normal people it doesn’t make them bad, defected or wrong. They want the same things as us. Acceptance and love being the two displayed in these pages.
The author, Melyssa Winchester, has outdone herself with this story and I cant wait to see what she follows it up with.
Givin this story 5 stars doesn’t seem right. It’s at least owed 10+.
This is about so much more than a love story, but the one that is there is life changing.
You NEED to read this book. NOW. So go. Get it. You will not be disappointed.
I had an advantage with this book because I got to see it before it became the final product it is now. I didn’t speak about it or review it then in the ARC stage or when I beta-read it because I knew in the end it would change and my opinion would change with it.
I was right.
This is not the same book I read in the beginning. It’s stronger, better and if you don’t listen to anything I say after this, remember these words before you read it.
It will change your life.
I came into this reading it as a one time bully. I was Kayden. I was Dillon. I was all of them combined which made this appeal even more to be because it was like looking in a mirror. Or going back in time to the old me.
There are three real life issues put into this book and they’re given equal face time throughout. The biggest is bullying, but there is also Autism and Child Abuse, both of which the lead characters experience.
Right from page one this story is touching. It will rip your heart out with the emotion behind every scene and it gets to a point where you don’t want to put it down because you don’t want to miss what happens next.
I don’t do crying but I cried with this book. Repeatedly.
It will open your eyes to bullying and the effects that it has but also opens your eyes to special needs individuals and how even though they may experience things in life that are different from normal people it doesn’t make them bad, defected or wrong. They want the same things as us. Acceptance and love being the two displayed in these pages.
The author, Melyssa Winchester, has outdone herself with this story and I cant wait to see what she follows it up with.
Givin this story 5 stars doesn’t seem right. It’s at least owed 10+.
This is about so much more than a love story, but the one that is there is life changing.
You NEED to read this book. NOW. So go. Get it. You will not be disappointed.
October 26, 2014
Read more of my reviews at My Full Bookshelf Reviews
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Count On Me had an intriguing premise, and I was in the mood for a more serious sort of contemporary, so I immediately picked up this book once I had it downloaded on my kindle. As I progressed, I began to realize that this book would not be something I enjoyed. There were multiple problems that I had with the book, and it just was not a good matchup for me at all.
First off, I didn't think the love story came off as believable, and when realistic fiction isn't realistic to me, it's a problem. Kayden may have been nice to Isabelle later, but he still had been pretty awful to her before, and I never was really able to get over that. The way he treated her, I would find friendship rather hard.
The real problem I had with this book were the run-on sentences. I hate when a book constantly has them, because it really takes away from the quality of the story. Hate. it. This book had quite a few comma splices.
I was never able to connect with either of the characters. This probably was in part do to my problems with the "realisticness" of the story. It's a big problem when I'm not able to connect to characters, especially with romance, because characters are kind of crucial in this genre. I really, really tried, but I just never could.
Though others liked Count on Me, I never found myself getting into the story. While it isn't the worst book I've read, it was not something I enjoyed, sadly.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Count On Me had an intriguing premise, and I was in the mood for a more serious sort of contemporary, so I immediately picked up this book once I had it downloaded on my kindle. As I progressed, I began to realize that this book would not be something I enjoyed. There were multiple problems that I had with the book, and it just was not a good matchup for me at all.
First off, I didn't think the love story came off as believable, and when realistic fiction isn't realistic to me, it's a problem. Kayden may have been nice to Isabelle later, but he still had been pretty awful to her before, and I never was really able to get over that. The way he treated her, I would find friendship rather hard.
The real problem I had with this book were the run-on sentences. I hate when a book constantly has them, because it really takes away from the quality of the story. Hate. it. This book had quite a few comma splices.
I was never able to connect with either of the characters. This probably was in part do to my problems with the "realisticness" of the story. It's a big problem when I'm not able to connect to characters, especially with romance, because characters are kind of crucial in this genre. I really, really tried, but I just never could.
Though others liked Count on Me, I never found myself getting into the story. While it isn't the worst book I've read, it was not something I enjoyed, sadly.
April 23, 2014
So I'm like pretty much in love with anything that this author writes but this book is different. I can't like fan girl out with this one even though theres like this little part of me that sort of wants to because of Kayden Walker.
I really wasnt expecting this kind of book when I got it. I mean I knew what it was about but theres more to it than just what the whole blurb thing says. You need to read this book because what your told doesnt cover whats between the pages like at all.
theres a strong emphasis on autism in this book but not so much that its hard to take. its a story of hope and acceptance and people learning that just because someones not the same as you it doesnt mean something bad. people are people and should all be treated the same.
its moving and it will make you cry, like alot. its gonna break your heart if you have a heart but its also gonna put it back together in loads of different ways.
The romance is sweet and perfect for a first love. it was realistic and not forced or fast at all. its sort of the way love is for someone at that age. i sort of felt like isabelle reading it because ive been there.
this book is just brilliant and its even more amazing that the proceeds the author makes are being donated to help other children in need. it makes me love her and this book even more.
i think i have a new favorite couple of all time in Isabelle and Kayden and my new favorite boyfriend in Kayden. Can I keep him forever please. Because I sooooo would
Okay so i lied, I fangirled a little.
5+ stars for this amazing read!
I really wasnt expecting this kind of book when I got it. I mean I knew what it was about but theres more to it than just what the whole blurb thing says. You need to read this book because what your told doesnt cover whats between the pages like at all.
theres a strong emphasis on autism in this book but not so much that its hard to take. its a story of hope and acceptance and people learning that just because someones not the same as you it doesnt mean something bad. people are people and should all be treated the same.
its moving and it will make you cry, like alot. its gonna break your heart if you have a heart but its also gonna put it back together in loads of different ways.
The romance is sweet and perfect for a first love. it was realistic and not forced or fast at all. its sort of the way love is for someone at that age. i sort of felt like isabelle reading it because ive been there.
this book is just brilliant and its even more amazing that the proceeds the author makes are being donated to help other children in need. it makes me love her and this book even more.
i think i have a new favorite couple of all time in Isabelle and Kayden and my new favorite boyfriend in Kayden. Can I keep him forever please. Because I sooooo would
Okay so i lied, I fangirled a little.
5+ stars for this amazing read!
March 29, 2018
Well... I don't know what happened but I wasn't feeling it... I had to push myself to keep reading just because I don't like to leave unfinished stories...
Overall, it was a good story, I mean I'm not complaining about it, but the only thing that was bothering me was that I knew Belle had autism because it was mentioned every time... I mean, I've read books where the struggling was real, I mean apart from the bullying and anxiety... or maybe it was due to the syndrome (the books I read were about asperger... (it's a kind of autism though) and I looveed them!)...
Anyway, I'd love more book recommendations related to autism or any other syndrome please!
Overall, it was a good story, I mean I'm not complaining about it, but the only thing that was bothering me was that I knew Belle had autism because it was mentioned every time... I mean, I've read books where the struggling was real, I mean apart from the bullying and anxiety... or maybe it was due to the syndrome (the books I read were about asperger... (it's a kind of autism though) and I looveed them!)...
Anyway, I'd love more book recommendations related to autism or any other syndrome please!
August 6, 2014
Tears, tears and more tears...
So heartbreaking, but real. Truly raw and believable. And, what teenager Isabelle Reagan goes through is ultimately sad and unfortunate. Constantly abused by a group of nasty bullies, both girls and guys, she wants so desperately to just be normal. But, she’s not. On a daily basis she deals with the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder. She’s a young sweet girl that enjoys numbers. So, math is her specialty. But because of her lack of speech, the group of bullies often call her names and push her around. When it finally gets to be too much, her neighbor Kayden Walker decides he’s seen enough and this can’t go on any longer. Looks can be deceiving, though, because at one time, Kayden used to be the biggest bully of them all. Why is he being so nice to her? Is there an ulterior motive to this about-face?
As the pair get to know each other, while narrating their story in alternating voices, Kayden distances himself from his friends. The comments and abuse, unfortunately, only gets more and more degrading. I just couldn’t believe what kind of punishment these kids doled out to this beautiful innocent young girl. They were beyond disturbing! It hurt me so much to know that this possibly could be going on for real right now. WOW! The author really pulls the reader into the story with honesty and intensity. And, the home abuse that was revealed, was nothing less than painful and difficult to read.
My hat’s off to Ms. Winchester for portraying true-to-life characters - the disabled, the abused, and the bully. Autism affects 1 in 88 individuals – boys more than girls, though. It’s difficult and fearful, and each day you never know what your family and your child are going to be faced with. New challenges. Unfortunate heartbreak. And, unpredictable situations. It’s with hope, faith and love that makes us wake up and begin a new day. A possible smile and a hug to know maybe you will make a difference to a child that looks to you for love and guidance. And, with the bullying aspect of the story, it just solidifed to me that people can be so mean no matter how much you try to protect your child. This story really got to me emotionally with tears and sadness. Please read this book, you will not be disappointed! I would love to see Isabelle and Kayden’s story explored further. They both were very likable and, as a couple, I couldn’t hope for them to stick together – supporting and protecting each other. They were just meant to be together! Excellent novel that deals with life-altering circumstances!
March 17, 2015
This is one of my favorite books I've read this year so far. It deals with a very sensitive subject, more than one actually, and the author does a fantastic job handling these issues in this book.
I think most people, myself included, thought that if someone is autistic, they're like Dustin Hoffman's character in Rain Man...where they are basically unable to communicate or behave normally in any way. Apparently there are degrees to autism. However, that does not mean that it is easy, if you happen to have autism to a lesser degree.
I felt so badly for Isabelle in this book. I just wanted to reach through the pages and hug and protect her. Bullying is horrible for anyone to have to endure, but for kids as school to pick on someone who is autistic...a disease they cannot help having, is just beyond the regular cruelty of bullying. The things she has to go through in this book just made me ill. And Kayden was a guy that went along with it for a long time, despite the fact that there are small clues to indicate that he's not really liking it. But he's bowing to peer pressure too, despite the fact that, at fist, he's actually the leader of this group. But when his group begins to bully and make fun of Isabelle, somehow, he just can't do what he's always done.
I loved how Kayden grew and changed throughout this story. It takes some patience and a really caring heart for a young man of his age to attempt to date an autistic girl, and I applauded him for it.
I really don't want to say too much more because I don't want to ruin it for you. The author did an amazing job with this story. I was completely and 100% emotionally engaged in this story and with both of these characters. Loved it.
I think most people, myself included, thought that if someone is autistic, they're like Dustin Hoffman's character in Rain Man...where they are basically unable to communicate or behave normally in any way. Apparently there are degrees to autism. However, that does not mean that it is easy, if you happen to have autism to a lesser degree.
I felt so badly for Isabelle in this book. I just wanted to reach through the pages and hug and protect her. Bullying is horrible for anyone to have to endure, but for kids as school to pick on someone who is autistic...a disease they cannot help having, is just beyond the regular cruelty of bullying. The things she has to go through in this book just made me ill. And Kayden was a guy that went along with it for a long time, despite the fact that there are small clues to indicate that he's not really liking it. But he's bowing to peer pressure too, despite the fact that, at fist, he's actually the leader of this group. But when his group begins to bully and make fun of Isabelle, somehow, he just can't do what he's always done.
I loved how Kayden grew and changed throughout this story. It takes some patience and a really caring heart for a young man of his age to attempt to date an autistic girl, and I applauded him for it.
I really don't want to say too much more because I don't want to ruin it for you. The author did an amazing job with this story. I was completely and 100% emotionally engaged in this story and with both of these characters. Loved it.
February 10, 2018
Leido en Enero 2015
Un libro muy tierno y conmovedor... con momentos tristes y dolorosos, donde tratan el tema del Bullying y al contrario que otros libros que han tratado este tema, me gustó como lo enfocaron.... y no me pareció desagradable. Me encantaron los protas y puede que sea un poquito irreal, que sucedan este tipo de romances (con personajes con este tipo de discapacidad) no me impide que sueñe con que pueda suceder.... y estas personas también puedan conseguir su princesa o príncipe o azul y tener su HEA.
Super recomendado este libro!!
Sinopsis:
Hay personas que te dicen que la escuela secundaria es el mejor momento de tu vida.
Mintieron.
La escuela secundaria es horrible cuando eres como yo, autista.
Ellos piensan que porque no hablo y siempre parezco estar perdida en mi propio mundo, soy estúpida o sorda. Algunos incluso piensan que soy retrasada. No soy ninguna de esas cosas y no me gusta esa palabra.
Sólo porque tengo estos problemas, no significa que es todo lo que soy. Hay mucho más de mí, pero en realidad nadie se toma el tiempo para conocerlo. Al menos eso pensaba hasta Kayden.
Kayden Walker es mala noticia. Pasa su tiempo haciendo que las personas diferentes, al igual que yo, se sientan aún peor con ellas mismas y lo hace con una sonrisa. Es todo lo que no necesito en mi vida, sin embargo, parece que no puedo vivir sin él.
Por dentro, hay más de él solo que tiene miedo de dejar que el resto del mundo lo vea. Lo he visto y lo estoy descubriendo, no somos tan diferentes después de todo...
Un libro muy tierno y conmovedor... con momentos tristes y dolorosos, donde tratan el tema del Bullying y al contrario que otros libros que han tratado este tema, me gustó como lo enfocaron.... y no me pareció desagradable. Me encantaron los protas y puede que sea un poquito irreal, que sucedan este tipo de romances (con personajes con este tipo de discapacidad) no me impide que sueñe con que pueda suceder.... y estas personas también puedan conseguir su princesa o príncipe o azul y tener su HEA.
Super recomendado este libro!!
July 3, 2014
4 Sweet Stars
Kayden
Isabelle
This story was short and sweet!!!!! Kayden and Isabelle are from very different worlds. Kayden is the popular bully at school. Isabelle on the other hand is bullied due to her autism. One incident at school leads these two characters to re-discover each other.
Isabelle did not want to exist anymore. She wanted to be unseen and hidden somewhere. Until Kayden decides to slowly pushes her boundaries and bring light into her life. Kayden's life starts to change as well. He starts to show who he truly is. He is absolutely caring and the most adorable person I have ever met!
Their story isn't all smooth sailing though. There are obstacles and assholes they have to conquer.
I loved the dual POV!!!! Especially Kayden's!! That guy seriously should win BOYFRIEND OF THE YEAR!
I really wanted a better epilogue or more chapters! I feel like their story just started. It ended kind of too soon for me. I would not mind reading another book about this couple. I would definitely like to see them 2 to 3 years from now.
Kayden
Isabelle
This story was short and sweet!!!!! Kayden and Isabelle are from very different worlds. Kayden is the popular bully at school. Isabelle on the other hand is bullied due to her autism. One incident at school leads these two characters to re-discover each other.
Isabelle did not want to exist anymore. She wanted to be unseen and hidden somewhere. Until Kayden decides to slowly pushes her boundaries and bring light into her life. Kayden's life starts to change as well. He starts to show who he truly is. He is absolutely caring and the most adorable person I have ever met!
Their story isn't all smooth sailing though. There are obstacles and assholes they have to conquer.
I loved the dual POV!!!! Especially Kayden's!! That guy seriously should win BOYFRIEND OF THE YEAR!
I really wanted a better epilogue or more chapters! I feel like their story just started. It ended kind of too soon for me. I would not mind reading another book about this couple. I would definitely like to see them 2 to 3 years from now.
Read
October 1, 2016DNF at 40%. I know I'm in a minority here. A lot of readers really liked this book. I tried, but this story about the bullying that an autistic high school student endured just didn't ring true to me. A childhood friend who comes to her defense, but was one of the biggest bullies himself at the school, kind of disgusted me. His attempt at saving her from other students by actually actively participating in humiliating behavior toward another autistic student really left me hating him to a point that I don't think I could never like him again. I also couldn't believe that school authorities would turn a blind eye to what was going on. I might be naïve on that point, but I hope not.
November 10, 2014
TERMINÉ ESTE GRAN, GRAN LIBRO!!
La historia es una de las más delicadas que he leído, a pesar de ser ''YA''.
Melyssa, lo aborda sin ser superficial, ni dramatismos agregados para causar ''golpes bajos''.
Debería ser lectura obligada en las escuelas.
Si lo que esperan, son escenas hot. Pues no, este no es su libro.
Kayden es un adolescente, que tiene una vida dura en su casa. Él asiste a un colegio, él hostiga a sus compañeros... él se enamora, pero de la persona menos pensada.
Belle es autista de los niveles más altos. Ella es víctima de acoso escolar. Ella sufre mucho, ella no puede expresarse... ella se enamora, pero de la persona menos pensada.
SUPER MEGA SPOILER
Bueno, como ya dije más arriba, es un libro que nadie se puede perder...
Otra historia a la que deberían dar ''bolilla'' las editoriales.
May 15, 2014
** I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review **
Isabelle has autism. After being homeschooled for a long time, she started to go to public high school. Except for name calling it went well until her last year. Suddenly she becomes a victim of the school bullies.
Kayden is one of these bullies. As he proclaims himself, he is an asshole. He likes to pick on the weaker children at school. But everything changes, when his friends start to pick on Isabelle...
This story is about two teenagers who struggle to overcome their past and find strength in each other to do so.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
I have to say, at the beginning I had a few problems buying the love story. Getting to the end of the story, we finally can understand, where it came from, but at the beginning, I was confused. I mean, it’s like from one second to the other, the bully decides to love the former victim - it was kinda strange.
But that being said, it was an amazing read. Mostly, because the reader is able to see what live is like if you are different. In this case it is autism or having a drunken brother, but it could be anything else. I loved how the story was told from Isabelle’s and Kayden’s point of view. This way, the reader was able to get insight into the feelings and thoughts of both characters. And you can see that nothing is as black and white as it always seems to be...
Last but not least, I am thankful to the author, because this book was able to show me what autism could be like (as the author made clear, that no autism case is the same). I always was curious, but since (I think) I never came in contact with a person diagnosed with autism, somehow I never was really able to understand what it meant. Through this book I came a little bit nearer to this understanding. So thank you!
Isabelle has autism. After being homeschooled for a long time, she started to go to public high school. Except for name calling it went well until her last year. Suddenly she becomes a victim of the school bullies.
Kayden is one of these bullies. As he proclaims himself, he is an asshole. He likes to pick on the weaker children at school. But everything changes, when his friends start to pick on Isabelle...
This story is about two teenagers who struggle to overcome their past and find strength in each other to do so.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
I have to say, at the beginning I had a few problems buying the love story. Getting to the end of the story, we finally can understand, where it came from, but at the beginning, I was confused. I mean, it’s like from one second to the other, the bully decides to love the former victim - it was kinda strange.
But that being said, it was an amazing read. Mostly, because the reader is able to see what live is like if you are different. In this case it is autism or having a drunken brother, but it could be anything else. I loved how the story was told from Isabelle’s and Kayden’s point of view. This way, the reader was able to get insight into the feelings and thoughts of both characters. And you can see that nothing is as black and white as it always seems to be...
Last but not least, I am thankful to the author, because this book was able to show me what autism could be like (as the author made clear, that no autism case is the same). I always was curious, but since (I think) I never came in contact with a person diagnosed with autism, somehow I never was really able to understand what it meant. Through this book I came a little bit nearer to this understanding. So thank you!
April 19, 2014
6* if possible her best book yet.
This story is so beautifully written & beyond moving. From start to finish I had tears in my eyes and butterflies in my tummy . At points the tears were rolling down my face without my knowledge i was so engrossed in this book. This book not only raises awareness of bullies but also autism and abuse.
Kayden is ur typical bad boy bully. See a kid that's different pick on them and watch them break down just for his and his friends enjoyment . That is until the day he sees them do it to Isabelle .
Isabelle is different always has been and always will be. She is not thick slow or retarded like they say she is . She is autistic. People don't want to get to know her though to find out about it they would rather just call her the weird kid.
Everything changes though when that faithful day when the bullies decide today is the day we will pick on Isabella. That's the day every thing changes forever.
Not only has melyssa wrote a 5* book but she has also decided to donate 70% of the proceedings to charity to help our kids who are suffering . I will recommend this book until I blue in the face not only because it is amazing but because it is also to help a wonderful cause .
http://www.marciemazzolafoundation.or...
This story is so beautifully written & beyond moving. From start to finish I had tears in my eyes and butterflies in my tummy . At points the tears were rolling down my face without my knowledge i was so engrossed in this book. This book not only raises awareness of bullies but also autism and abuse.
Kayden is ur typical bad boy bully. See a kid that's different pick on them and watch them break down just for his and his friends enjoyment . That is until the day he sees them do it to Isabelle .
Isabelle is different always has been and always will be. She is not thick slow or retarded like they say she is . She is autistic. People don't want to get to know her though to find out about it they would rather just call her the weird kid.
Everything changes though when that faithful day when the bullies decide today is the day we will pick on Isabella. That's the day every thing changes forever.
Not only has melyssa wrote a 5* book but she has also decided to donate 70% of the proceedings to charity to help our kids who are suffering . I will recommend this book until I blue in the face not only because it is amazing but because it is also to help a wonderful cause .
http://www.marciemazzolafoundation.or...
October 11, 2014
I read this series out of order, so I already had an idea of the havoc Amy could cause. It didn't make reading it any easier. These characters were so well written that every heartbreaking moment was like it was happening to my best friend. I loved Belle. She was beautiful and deep. I was right there with her throughout he whole story. Kayden was the same. Even when I was supposed to hate him, I couldn't. The way he grew and changed was perfection.
As a teacher I want to believe these kinds of things don't happen, but you never know what students are carrying around with them. I loved how Ms. Taylor was there for everyone without being too intrusive. In fact, one of my favorite moments was when Kayden realized teachers have a sense of humor.
I read this book in a day because I couldn't put it down and couldn't wait to get the next book to find out what happens with Dillon. He really let me down in this book, so I can only hope he has a redeeming moment in the next. I love that moment when characters turn their lives around, and this book was full of them.
As a teacher I want to believe these kinds of things don't happen, but you never know what students are carrying around with them. I loved how Ms. Taylor was there for everyone without being too intrusive. In fact, one of my favorite moments was when Kayden realized teachers have a sense of humor.
I read this book in a day because I couldn't put it down and couldn't wait to get the next book to find out what happens with Dillon. He really let me down in this book, so I can only hope he has a redeeming moment in the next. I love that moment when characters turn their lives around, and this book was full of them.
April 18, 2015
La autora tiene al menos una ligera idea sobre el autismo?? Yo diría que no....
Irreal por todas partes, un quiero y no puedo. Entiendo la dificultad por escribir un libro con protagonista autista narrando como se siente en cada situación, pero sí te has metido ahí tienes que saber que estas haciendo.
El autismo no tiene cura, y autismo selectivo?? Wtf? Ahí puedo ver mutismo selectivo... Así juzgando muy a la ligera, y este no se cura con pastillas. Lo que sí que no es que se cure de la nada, por arte de magia, y se ponga a dar respuestas rápidas e inteligente a quienes más estrés le causa... NO
Y no voy a empezar con el síndrome de asperger... Ahí otro tanto.
Por otro lado no entiendo ni de lejos lo de: tenía que mantener una imagen, así que me meto con gente y sí tiene dificultades pues mejor!
No veo un cambio real, no veo nada real aquí. Me tenía que esforzar MUCHO por no imaginar una escuela de primaria según leía.
No me gusto nada y eso que estaba bastante ilusionada por leer "novela" con este tema.
Irreal por todas partes, un quiero y no puedo. Entiendo la dificultad por escribir un libro con protagonista autista narrando como se siente en cada situación, pero sí te has metido ahí tienes que saber que estas haciendo.
El autismo no tiene cura, y autismo selectivo?? Wtf? Ahí puedo ver mutismo selectivo... Así juzgando muy a la ligera, y este no se cura con pastillas. Lo que sí que no es que se cure de la nada, por arte de magia, y se ponga a dar respuestas rápidas e inteligente a quienes más estrés le causa... NO
Y no voy a empezar con el síndrome de asperger... Ahí otro tanto.
Por otro lado no entiendo ni de lejos lo de: tenía que mantener una imagen, así que me meto con gente y sí tiene dificultades pues mejor!
No veo un cambio real, no veo nada real aquí. Me tenía que esforzar MUCHO por no imaginar una escuela de primaria según leía.
No me gusto nada y eso que estaba bastante ilusionada por leer "novela" con este tema.
April 7, 2015
DNF @ 41%
Normally I don't rate things I haven't finished, but this book was so bad I feel like it deserves it.
It was filled with spelling and grammatical errors. Guys, it was so cringe-inducing I don't even know how to explain the extent of the ick factor.
The book under describes and would say things like, "he handed me a gen pen. He doesn't know it, but it's my favorite color," AND THEN NOT TELL YOU WHAT COLOR IT IS!
It's also the definition of tell not show. The entire thing reads like a stream of consciousness rant by the two characters. Barely anything is included that isn't a thought running through the character's head. Terrible.
I was determined to finish this, but had to call it quits after he took her to the park for lunch, tried to feed her soup, and said, "open wide. Someone needs to eat. I can see it on your face." Like she was a baby. Gross.
Normally I don't rate things I haven't finished, but this book was so bad I feel like it deserves it.
It was filled with spelling and grammatical errors. Guys, it was so cringe-inducing I don't even know how to explain the extent of the ick factor.
The book under describes and would say things like, "he handed me a gen pen. He doesn't know it, but it's my favorite color," AND THEN NOT TELL YOU WHAT COLOR IT IS!
It's also the definition of tell not show. The entire thing reads like a stream of consciousness rant by the two characters. Barely anything is included that isn't a thought running through the character's head. Terrible.
I was determined to finish this, but had to call it quits after he took her to the park for lunch, tried to feed her soup, and said, "open wide. Someone needs to eat. I can see it on your face." Like she was a baby. Gross.
May 21, 2014
This YA contemporary romance is different in so many ways. It's sweet, heartbreaking, and heartwarming all at once. Of course, there are many novels which can boast these traits, but Count On Me stands out because of the subject matter. This is a beautiful story of young love, one of the main points of views coming from an autistic seventeen-year-old girl. In fact, I have never read anything like it: throughout the novel, I was allowed into her head, and I experienced the world the way she sees it. For me personally, Melyssa Winchester brought on a bigger understanding of how exactly like me--and yet so different from me--a person struggling with autism might be. Melyssa's acknowledgments also choked me up. The fact that she is the mother of three children on the autism spectrum and has them to thank for wanting to write this novel put the cherry on top of the cake.
April 21, 2014
Once I picked this book up it was hard to put down. This is a beautiful book, amazingly told through the eyes of two very special people. It was an extremely moving love story. A powerful look into the world of autism and a reminder of the bullying that can occur from people who don't have a genuine understanding of what autism really is.
"It's okay to have differences, to not be like everyone else around you."
I would recommend this book to readers of all ages.
"It's okay to have differences, to not be like everyone else around you."
I would recommend this book to readers of all ages.
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