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The Radius of Us
What happens when you fall in love with someone everyone seems determined to fear?
Ninety seconds can change a life — not just daily routine, but who you are as a person. Gretchen Asher knows this, because that’s how long a stranger held her body to the ground. When a car sped toward them and Gretchen’s attacker told her to run, she recognized a surprising terror in his eyes. And now she doesn’t even recognize herself.
Ninety seconds can change a life — not just the place you live, but the person others think you are. Phoenix Flores-Flores knows this, because months after setting off toward the U.S. / Mexico border in search of safety for his brother, he finally walked out of detention. But Phoenix didn’t just trade a perilous barrio in El Salvador for a leafy suburb in Atlanta. He became that person — the one his new neighbors crossed the street to avoid.
Ninety seconds can change a life — so how will the ninety seconds of Gretchen and Phoenix’s first encounter change theirs?
Told in alternating first person points of view, The Radius of Us is a story of love, sacrifice, and the journey from victim to survivor. It offers an intimate glimpse into the causes and devastating impact of Latino gang violence, both in the U.S. and in Central America, and explores the risks that victims take when they try to start over. Most importantly, Marie Marquardt's The Radius of Us shows how people struggling to overcome trauma can find healing in love.
Ninety seconds can change a life — not just daily routine, but who you are as a person. Gretchen Asher knows this, because that’s how long a stranger held her body to the ground. When a car sped toward them and Gretchen’s attacker told her to run, she recognized a surprising terror in his eyes. And now she doesn’t even recognize herself.
Ninety seconds can change a life — not just the place you live, but the person others think you are. Phoenix Flores-Flores knows this, because months after setting off toward the U.S. / Mexico border in search of safety for his brother, he finally walked out of detention. But Phoenix didn’t just trade a perilous barrio in El Salvador for a leafy suburb in Atlanta. He became that person — the one his new neighbors crossed the street to avoid.
Ninety seconds can change a life — so how will the ninety seconds of Gretchen and Phoenix’s first encounter change theirs?
Told in alternating first person points of view, The Radius of Us is a story of love, sacrifice, and the journey from victim to survivor. It offers an intimate glimpse into the causes and devastating impact of Latino gang violence, both in the U.S. and in Central America, and explores the risks that victims take when they try to start over. Most importantly, Marie Marquardt's The Radius of Us shows how people struggling to overcome trauma can find healing in love.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published January 17, 2017
80 people are currently reading
3438 people want to read
About the author
Marie Marquardt
16 books165 followersMarie Marquardt is author of YA novels Does My Body Offend You? (with Mayra Cuevas), Dream Things True, The Radius of Us, and Flight Season. Her books have earned many awards and commendations, including BEA Buzz Books, Books all Young Georgians Should Read, and the CLASP Américas Commendation, and they have been shortlisted for several state book awards, including the South Carolina Young Adult Book Award and the Missouri Gateway Readers Award. Marie also has published articles and co-authored two non-fiction books about Latin American immigration to the U.S. South, and has been interviewed about her research, writing, and advocacy on National Public Radio, Public Radio International, and BBC America, among many other media outlets. She lives in a busy household in Decatur, Georgia with her spouse, four kids, several chickens, a dog, and a bearded dragon. You can connect with Marie on Instagram, @Marie_Marquardt and at her website, MarieMarquardt.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 342 reviews
February 9, 2017
3.5 Stars. High school senior Gretchen Asher's life changed forever the night she was attacked. She has lived in fear for the past six months. One day, she has a panic attack after seeing a young man who resembles her attacker. She realizes it couldn't possibly be the same person, so she finds him to apologize. The young man's name is Phoenix (18) and he just recently arrived in the United States. He and his brother Ari (12) fled their home in El Salvador to seek asylum in the United States. Gretchen and Phoenix quickly bond. She doesn't have to pretend with him. He's the first person who asks the questions that matter and really listens to her replies. For Phoenix, it's hard being an outsider in a new country where the people are automatically suspicious of him. Gretchen's attention makes this place feel like a home. Sadly, the pair might not have much time together. Phoenix has little hope of being granted asylum.
The chapters alternate between Gretchen's and Phoenix's perspectives. At first, I thought this book may be a little too YA for me, but these two characters slowly stole my heart as their background stories were revealed. The thoughtful gestures they made to each other as their friendship developed were so sweet. The story behind the title is a really 'aww'-worthy moment! Gretchen and Phoenix are able to lean on each other, but sometimes it seems that Gretchen is the one that demands the most support. When she realizes the disparity in the relationship, she steps up for Phoenix in a meaningful way. I'm leery of love stories, but it helped that these two characters were interesting as individuals. They had their own issues to deal with outside of falling in love and other interesting relationships besides each other. Their connection solidified because they were are able to empathize with each other in a way that others weren't able to.
Gretchen has been suffering from PTSD since she was attacked. She can barely leave the house, never knowing what will trigger a panic attack. Well-meaning people try to talk to her about her incident, but they always seem more interested in the attacker's appearance or explaining to her what they would've done. She knows she'll never be the same, but all her friends and family are waiting for her to revert back to her old self. At the same time that Gretchen is trying to get a handle on her PTSD, she is also experiencing typical teen problems. Her boyfriend moved off to college and they're drifting apart. Her best friend Bree acts completely different since getting a boyfriend. One thing I liked about that storyline was that while Gretchen is a little annoyed by the new boyfriend, he ends up being a great friend to her and Phoenix. This isn't the only time that Gretchen's preconceived notions are challenged.
In El Salvador, Phoenix and Ari get forced into a life-or-death situation. Phoenix sees only one way to protect his brother: flee. The four-month journey to the US was long and brutal. After the brothers reached the US border, they were detained and put into separate detention facilities. Phoenix was sent to Atlanta, Georgia, while Ari is in Texas. Phoenix is frustrated that Ari hasn’t spoken one word since they were separated, traumatized by the horrors they witnessed. As an "unaccompanied minor," Ari has a good chance of staying in the United States, but only if he's able to communicate. Phoenix was fortunate enough to be taken in by a local family, but he has little chance of being granted asylum--and even less of a chance if anyone looks deeper into his past. In an unforgiving legal system, Phoenix is unable to put that past behind him. The thought of returning home is terrifying because he will almost certainly be killed. Phoenix's chapters shine a light on the United States immigration system, the conditions in detention centers, and what happens to young people once they reach the border.
Gretchen and Phoenix both survived things that no one should have to experience. They support each other as they learn how to overcome feelings of guilt and keep living a full life despite their past trauma. The Radius of Us is more than a story about two young people falling in love. Through the character's unique perspectives, the reader learns (1) about overcoming preconceived notions, (2) what it's like to be a victim of a violent crime, (3) how to be a supportive friend, and (4) why a person might leave the only home they've ever known and what awaits them at the other side. It also gives exposure to another country and culture that many might not be familiar with. On that last note, this book encouraged me to seek out more information on El Salvador. Phoenix's descriptions of pupusas had my mouth watering and I’ve already found a few local Central American/Salvadorean restaurants that I'm going to try! Recommended for young adult readers. Books like these are important for spreading awareness and fostering empathy.
___________________
Notes: How did the violence in El Salvador get so out of control? Hundreds of thousands of Salvadoreans fled while their country was immersed in a twelve-year civil war, many settling in the United States. In some areas, gangs began to form as a protective mechanism for these new neighborhoods. The US introduced new tougher immigration legislation in 1996 and began deporting large numbers of gang members back to their home countries. Still reeling from the effects of civil war, El Salvador was a fertile ground for violent gangs to thrive. (Sources: How El Salvador Fell Into A Web Of Gang Violence & Who’s to blame for El Salvador’s gang violence?)
I received this book for free from Netgalley and St. Martin's Press. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. It's available now!
"Don’t let that stuff from your past tell you who you are.”
The chapters alternate between Gretchen's and Phoenix's perspectives. At first, I thought this book may be a little too YA for me, but these two characters slowly stole my heart as their background stories were revealed. The thoughtful gestures they made to each other as their friendship developed were so sweet. The story behind the title is a really 'aww'-worthy moment! Gretchen and Phoenix are able to lean on each other, but sometimes it seems that Gretchen is the one that demands the most support. When she realizes the disparity in the relationship, she steps up for Phoenix in a meaningful way. I'm leery of love stories, but it helped that these two characters were interesting as individuals. They had their own issues to deal with outside of falling in love and other interesting relationships besides each other. Their connection solidified because they were are able to empathize with each other in a way that others weren't able to.
"All of those people—they don’t know what we know."
Gretchen has been suffering from PTSD since she was attacked. She can barely leave the house, never knowing what will trigger a panic attack. Well-meaning people try to talk to her about her incident, but they always seem more interested in the attacker's appearance or explaining to her what they would've done. She knows she'll never be the same, but all her friends and family are waiting for her to revert back to her old self. At the same time that Gretchen is trying to get a handle on her PTSD, she is also experiencing typical teen problems. Her boyfriend moved off to college and they're drifting apart. Her best friend Bree acts completely different since getting a boyfriend. One thing I liked about that storyline was that while Gretchen is a little annoyed by the new boyfriend, he ends up being a great friend to her and Phoenix. This isn't the only time that Gretchen's preconceived notions are challenged.
“My American Dream’s way more simple than that. I just wanna be able to go for a walk in the woods alone—get on one of those little trails in the forest and walk for hours. That would be so awesome. Or maybe head over to a friend’s place after dinner to watch a football match on TV, and not have to look behind my back every five seconds, not have to worry about whether I’ll make it home alive.”
In El Salvador, Phoenix and Ari get forced into a life-or-death situation. Phoenix sees only one way to protect his brother: flee. The four-month journey to the US was long and brutal. After the brothers reached the US border, they were detained and put into separate detention facilities. Phoenix was sent to Atlanta, Georgia, while Ari is in Texas. Phoenix is frustrated that Ari hasn’t spoken one word since they were separated, traumatized by the horrors they witnessed. As an "unaccompanied minor," Ari has a good chance of staying in the United States, but only if he's able to communicate. Phoenix was fortunate enough to be taken in by a local family, but he has little chance of being granted asylum--and even less of a chance if anyone looks deeper into his past. In an unforgiving legal system, Phoenix is unable to put that past behind him. The thought of returning home is terrifying because he will almost certainly be killed. Phoenix's chapters shine a light on the United States immigration system, the conditions in detention centers, and what happens to young people once they reach the border.
Gretchen and Phoenix both survived things that no one should have to experience. They support each other as they learn how to overcome feelings of guilt and keep living a full life despite their past trauma. The Radius of Us is more than a story about two young people falling in love. Through the character's unique perspectives, the reader learns (1) about overcoming preconceived notions, (2) what it's like to be a victim of a violent crime, (3) how to be a supportive friend, and (4) why a person might leave the only home they've ever known and what awaits them at the other side. It also gives exposure to another country and culture that many might not be familiar with. On that last note, this book encouraged me to seek out more information on El Salvador. Phoenix's descriptions of pupusas had my mouth watering and I’ve already found a few local Central American/Salvadorean restaurants that I'm going to try! Recommended for young adult readers. Books like these are important for spreading awareness and fostering empathy.
___________________
Notes: How did the violence in El Salvador get so out of control? Hundreds of thousands of Salvadoreans fled while their country was immersed in a twelve-year civil war, many settling in the United States. In some areas, gangs began to form as a protective mechanism for these new neighborhoods. The US introduced new tougher immigration legislation in 1996 and began deporting large numbers of gang members back to their home countries. Still reeling from the effects of civil war, El Salvador was a fertile ground for violent gangs to thrive. (Sources: How El Salvador Fell Into A Web Of Gang Violence & Who’s to blame for El Salvador’s gang violence?)
I received this book for free from Netgalley and St. Martin's Press. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. It's available now!
December 14, 2016
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4,5 touching stars
An ARC has been kindly provided by St Martin's Press, via NetGalley.com, in exchange for an honest review.
This story is like an onion, it has many layers.
You can choose to see it as just a very cute romance between two touching main characters coming from different worlds: the poor migrant and the cute middle class white girl. Gretchen and Phoenix were perfectly assorted. Phoenix helped Gretchen to live fully and fearlessly again. He was solid, reliable. Gretchen made Phoenix feel welcome and worthy, she fought for him.
You can also focus on the journey Gretchen had to follow to feel whole and safe again. How she was riddled with panic attacks after THE EVENT, could not go to school anymore, could not drive or go outside without angst. It took a foreign boy’s understanding to make her live again. His presence was reassuring. Gretchen decided to help him build a garden, find some pupusas, play tourist in Atlanta. She forgot her fears to support Phoenix and he was her safe heaven.
Or you can choose to think about Phoenix’s fight to protect his little brother Ari.
I had never heard of Marie Marquardt before reading this book. How would she write? Would I like the story? Would I regret asking St Martin’s Press for this book? …
Now I can honestly say that I loved this book as it broached a very sensitive and contemporary topic with great care and respect. Choosing to portray a young migrant fighting to protect his young brother the author morphed impersonal statistics into individual heartbreaking cases.
This is the story of Phoenix 18 years old migrant from El Salvador. He fled his country with his little brother Ari to escape from the dangerous gangs ruling their little town. Orphaned, their travelled for months on foot or hanging from a train to reach the US border where they’ve been arrested and sent to detention camp. They witnessed so much violence on their trip that Ari isn’t speaking anymore. Now Phoenix is living with two old ladies waiting to know without much hope if he could stay in the US. Phoenix did some bad things in El Salvador under the gang’s pressure. They threatened his family and he did not really have a choice. Now he lives in guilt for what he’s done and does not think he deserves the kindness people can show, especially Gretchen’s .
This book may be YA romance with young main characters but reading it was thought provoking.
We take so many things for granted that we don’t even see we’re very lucky, spoiled even. We pay a fortune to have cut fruits at the grocery store while whole fruits cost just a penny. Phoenix was grateful just to be alive and in a safe surrounding without bullets flying or gang members taking your dearest possession. He was grateful for everything he’s been given, second hand clothes, a bed, a roof upon his head. His American dream was not to become rich or successful. He just wanted to have a little house, to walk freely and fearlessly in the countryside and maybe have a beer with a friend. This made me realize I was lucky.
Reading about Phoenix and Ari’s life in El Salvador, about their traumatizing journey and about their hope to be safe, to live made me truly see these migrant’s utter despair. Most don’t leave their country on a whim but out of sheer necessity. When they reach a border, they’re contained in camps and begin the long wait to see if their hope will come true or be crushed again. To witness Phoenix and Ari having to prove they’re worthy was heartbreaking. They had to be cleaned and judged and deemed worthy. How many succeed? How many are rebuked? What do they become once they’ve been sent back? Phoenix knew the statistics and how very few got permission to stay in the US.
The refugees crisis is a complex topic dividing peoples across the world, some seeing migrant as a threat to their work, their safety while other wish to help these people so desperate they left everything and everyone behind in the hope of a better, safer future. Marie Marquardt made me think about all these people. I had to face my prejudice and live Phoenix’s life. She made me see there are good and bad people everywhere refugees or native. This may sound cliché but it’s true nonetheless and is so important when we are confronted with the fear of the other, the foreigner.
Now I know that I'll never listen to/watch immigration problem in the same way. You won your bet Mrs Marquardt, you made me care and THINK.
4,5 touching stars
An ARC has been kindly provided by St Martin's Press, via NetGalley.com, in exchange for an honest review.
This story is like an onion, it has many layers.
You can choose to see it as just a very cute romance between two touching main characters coming from different worlds: the poor migrant and the cute middle class white girl. Gretchen and Phoenix were perfectly assorted. Phoenix helped Gretchen to live fully and fearlessly again. He was solid, reliable. Gretchen made Phoenix feel welcome and worthy, she fought for him.
You can also focus on the journey Gretchen had to follow to feel whole and safe again. How she was riddled with panic attacks after THE EVENT, could not go to school anymore, could not drive or go outside without angst. It took a foreign boy’s understanding to make her live again. His presence was reassuring. Gretchen decided to help him build a garden, find some pupusas, play tourist in Atlanta. She forgot her fears to support Phoenix and he was her safe heaven.
Or you can choose to think about Phoenix’s fight to protect his little brother Ari.
I had never heard of Marie Marquardt before reading this book. How would she write? Would I like the story? Would I regret asking St Martin’s Press for this book? …
Now I can honestly say that I loved this book as it broached a very sensitive and contemporary topic with great care and respect. Choosing to portray a young migrant fighting to protect his young brother the author morphed impersonal statistics into individual heartbreaking cases.
This is the story of Phoenix 18 years old migrant from El Salvador. He fled his country with his little brother Ari to escape from the dangerous gangs ruling their little town. Orphaned, their travelled for months on foot or hanging from a train to reach the US border where they’ve been arrested and sent to detention camp. They witnessed so much violence on their trip that Ari isn’t speaking anymore. Now Phoenix is living with two old ladies waiting to know without much hope if he could stay in the US. Phoenix did some bad things in El Salvador under the gang’s pressure. They threatened his family and he did not really have a choice. Now he lives in guilt for what he’s done and does not think he deserves the kindness people can show, especially Gretchen’s .
This book may be YA romance with young main characters but reading it was thought provoking.
We take so many things for granted that we don’t even see we’re very lucky, spoiled even. We pay a fortune to have cut fruits at the grocery store while whole fruits cost just a penny. Phoenix was grateful just to be alive and in a safe surrounding without bullets flying or gang members taking your dearest possession. He was grateful for everything he’s been given, second hand clothes, a bed, a roof upon his head. His American dream was not to become rich or successful. He just wanted to have a little house, to walk freely and fearlessly in the countryside and maybe have a beer with a friend. This made me realize I was lucky.
Reading about Phoenix and Ari’s life in El Salvador, about their traumatizing journey and about their hope to be safe, to live made me truly see these migrant’s utter despair. Most don’t leave their country on a whim but out of sheer necessity. When they reach a border, they’re contained in camps and begin the long wait to see if their hope will come true or be crushed again. To witness Phoenix and Ari having to prove they’re worthy was heartbreaking. They had to be cleaned and judged and deemed worthy. How many succeed? How many are rebuked? What do they become once they’ve been sent back? Phoenix knew the statistics and how very few got permission to stay in the US.
The refugees crisis is a complex topic dividing peoples across the world, some seeing migrant as a threat to their work, their safety while other wish to help these people so desperate they left everything and everyone behind in the hope of a better, safer future. Marie Marquardt made me think about all these people. I had to face my prejudice and live Phoenix’s life. She made me see there are good and bad people everywhere refugees or native. This may sound cliché but it’s true nonetheless and is so important when we are confronted with the fear of the other, the foreigner.
Now I know that I'll never listen to/watch immigration problem in the same way. You won your bet Mrs Marquardt, you made me care and THINK.
February 9, 2017
Copy received through NetGalley in exchange for a fair review.
The Radius of Us is a beautiful book. The story is great, it's original and it'll capture your attention right away. The characters are amazingly developed, their interactions seem natural. But what most stood out about this book to me was the writing style. In my experience YA isn't the genre where you can encounter amazing and eloquent writing styles, so Mrs. Marquardt's way of writing surprised me, and amazed me. She has a wonderful way with words, and if the summary doesn't spark up your interest, I promise you that the wordiness of first sentence will captivate you.
P.S. Mrs. Marquardt is joining my list of authors whose style I'm jealous of. The other two authors are Serena Chase and S.Vagus. Oh, if only...
Pre-review notes:
I'm gonna need a while to stomach this. Review in a day or two (or three).
The Radius of Us is a beautiful book. The story is great, it's original and it'll capture your attention right away. The characters are amazingly developed, their interactions seem natural. But what most stood out about this book to me was the writing style. In my experience YA isn't the genre where you can encounter amazing and eloquent writing styles, so Mrs. Marquardt's way of writing surprised me, and amazed me. She has a wonderful way with words, and if the summary doesn't spark up your interest, I promise you that the wordiness of first sentence will captivate you.
P.S. Mrs. Marquardt is joining my list of authors whose style I'm jealous of. The other two authors are Serena Chase and S.Vagus. Oh, if only...
Pre-review notes:
I'm gonna need a while to stomach this. Review in a day or two (or three).
February 26, 2017
Review forthcoming.
August 29, 2016
304 pages of pure bliss. There are so many things to love from this book! It tells the story of two different people with scary pasts: Gretchen, a girl who os attacked and has panic attacks since then; and Phoenix, a guy running away from gang life in San Salvador, protecting his brother all the while.
The story is sound and well-written, alternating chapters between the two main characters. Gretchen and Phoenix are really fleshed out, and I loved their story.
Also, I did dig the way in which "not easy" things are "easily" explained on this book: panic attacks, racism, love, moving from a hurtful part on our past, trust issues and so much more. The author is not passing judgement, she is giving voice to what being alive is and/or can be. This is one of the main reasons why I loved this book so much, is full of fire and truth, and is magistrally narrated.
The story is sound and well-written, alternating chapters between the two main characters. Gretchen and Phoenix are really fleshed out, and I loved their story.
Also, I did dig the way in which "not easy" things are "easily" explained on this book: panic attacks, racism, love, moving from a hurtful part on our past, trust issues and so much more. The author is not passing judgement, she is giving voice to what being alive is and/or can be. This is one of the main reasons why I loved this book so much, is full of fire and truth, and is magistrally narrated.
June 28, 2018
Plot - 4
Writing style - 4.5
Characters - 4
Romance - 4
In which an eighteen-year-old Mexican boy was mistaken for another Latino by an American girl who was traumatized by an incident with an involvement of an infamous Mexican gang.
• Plot - I always state this whenever I review ya novels, I am not much of contemporary reader but let me tell you this, this book over here is golden.
The issues it deals with are prominent. It's my first time reading a novel that has someting do with with an Latinos getting deported due to their dark pasts in there homeland. To be honest, it felt refreshing reading this because it somehow broadened my view in such things.
That life outside my room is not rainbows and unicorns. That I should be taking myself for the privelage I have.
Of course, I do have some issues with the book itself but nothing major, let me assure you.
I do only wished the author somehow focused as well with the female protaginist's said trauma and case.
Also, while reading this, I was shocked due to how cruel La Salvador was explained. I can't really say if the author kinda exaggerated the whole La Salvador's state, the gang fights and all because I personally didn't witnessed it. Haven't even step a foot in Mexico though I would love to someday.
This is the type of novel that is worthy of being a movie.
• writing style - it hooked me the moment I read the first chapter. I mean, it's direct to the point. No unnecessary and boring introduction. No sipping coffees or whatever.
Fast paced, that's for sure. Read it in one sitting.
Thr climax was fine with me. Not too dramatix but not too dull. Smooth.
• characters - they're amazing. To tell you the truth, I think the novel was not lengthy enough for us to get to know the characters deeper.
1. Gretchen - The female lead's character was especially not much given attention. Sure, there was character development. It's just the lack of seeing who she really is.
Don't get me wrong, I do like her because she's straight to the point. Determined. When the secrets were spilled, she freaked out a bit but immediately get ovee it and tried fixing things up. That's the type of ya heroine I need.
Like I said, I wished the author somehow focused as well with her case, not only with the male lead's.
2. Phoenix - I feel so bad for all the things he'd been through. He's a great brother. Smart. Patient.
I also love reading his point of views. How he complain about the overpriced cheese and all that. I mean, I completely agree with me.
• romance - it was not the type of romance where you'll find yourself blushing. I mean, of course, you'll laugh at some point but the whole love story itself was touching.
Both characters themselves found each other to heal. To help one another in overcoming all the tragedies.
Somehow, they felt natural despite the fact it's kinda insta-love. How first, they only see each other as friends. Someone to trust.
Anyways, as long as it is not love at first sight, I am fine with it.
Writing style - 4.5
Characters - 4
Romance - 4
In which an eighteen-year-old Mexican boy was mistaken for another Latino by an American girl who was traumatized by an incident with an involvement of an infamous Mexican gang.
• Plot - I always state this whenever I review ya novels, I am not much of contemporary reader but let me tell you this, this book over here is golden.
The issues it deals with are prominent. It's my first time reading a novel that has someting do with with an Latinos getting deported due to their dark pasts in there homeland. To be honest, it felt refreshing reading this because it somehow broadened my view in such things.
That life outside my room is not rainbows and unicorns. That I should be taking myself for the privelage I have.
Of course, I do have some issues with the book itself but nothing major, let me assure you.
I do only wished the author somehow focused as well with the female protaginist's said trauma and case.
Also, while reading this, I was shocked due to how cruel La Salvador was explained. I can't really say if the author kinda exaggerated the whole La Salvador's state, the gang fights and all because I personally didn't witnessed it. Haven't even step a foot in Mexico though I would love to someday.
This is the type of novel that is worthy of being a movie.
• writing style - it hooked me the moment I read the first chapter. I mean, it's direct to the point. No unnecessary and boring introduction. No sipping coffees or whatever.
Fast paced, that's for sure. Read it in one sitting.
Thr climax was fine with me. Not too dramatix but not too dull. Smooth.
• characters - they're amazing. To tell you the truth, I think the novel was not lengthy enough for us to get to know the characters deeper.
1. Gretchen - The female lead's character was especially not much given attention. Sure, there was character development. It's just the lack of seeing who she really is.
Don't get me wrong, I do like her because she's straight to the point. Determined. When the secrets were spilled, she freaked out a bit but immediately get ovee it and tried fixing things up. That's the type of ya heroine I need.
Like I said, I wished the author somehow focused as well with her case, not only with the male lead's.
2. Phoenix - I feel so bad for all the things he'd been through. He's a great brother. Smart. Patient.
I also love reading his point of views. How he complain about the overpriced cheese and all that. I mean, I completely agree with me.
• romance - it was not the type of romance where you'll find yourself blushing. I mean, of course, you'll laugh at some point but the whole love story itself was touching.
Both characters themselves found each other to heal. To help one another in overcoming all the tragedies.
Somehow, they felt natural despite the fact it's kinda insta-love. How first, they only see each other as friends. Someone to trust.
Anyways, as long as it is not love at first sight, I am fine with it.
November 4, 2016
extremely skeptical about this one because this talks about gang violence and illegal immigration (both important issues to me).
don't let me down pls *crosses fingers*
don't let me down pls *crosses fingers*
February 7, 2017
Rating: 4.5 Sars
If I was pressed to summarize this book, I would pick the following part of the book blurb:
There was just so much I loved about this book, I don't even know where to start. This is a love story, a story of redemption, and a story of survival. This is story of gang violence, refugees, and the Central American Crisis. This book hit me on so many levels, and I was all in from the first page.
Both Phoenix and Gretchen were victims. Gretchen had been assaulted, and was suffering from PTSD. Phoenix was running from his gang-life past, and fighting for him and his little brother to stay in the US. These two were able to find solace in each other's company. Gretchen was able to feel safe; Phoenix was able to see a possible future. Both were hopeful, and I couldn't help but be hopeful with them.
Phoenix's story definitely stole the show. My heart ached as I learned about his past. He had experienced so many difficult things in his 19 years, it did not seem quite fair. He made mistakes in the past, but he turned his life around. This idea that one can change, and one does not need to be defined by one's past is so important to me. I want to think that every mistake I make will not haunt me forever. I want to believe that I can overcome my past, and move forward towards good things. I need redemption stories to keep this flame of hope alive, and this book definitely fits the bill.
This book is also packed with great characters. I know many people will mention the diversity present in this book, because there is A LOT of diversity in this book. There are black, white, and Latino characters. Some are straight, some are gay. They are rich, poor, and in-between. They were from all walks of life, and all these different perspectives added to the beauty of this book. But besides being diverse, they were just beautiful characters. Sally and Amanda were the lovely lesbian couple, who took Phoenix into their home and were paying for his lawyer. But they did not just give him monetary support, they gave him genuine affection and support, and served as one of several mother figures in Phoenix's life. There was Bree and Ty Pennington (Trading Spaces anyone?), Gretchen's friends, who were struggling with how to help Gretch after the attack. I really liked that Marquardt surprised me with Ty. He turned out to be so much more than I thought he would be. Sister Mary Margaret, another mother figure, had given a lot to Phoenix, and continued to fight for him from afar. Finally, there was Barbie and Bo, the biker couple with hearts of gold. All were special and really enhanced the story.
I read the acknowledgements, and was not surprised to find that Marquardt is an immigration advocate. Her passion and knowledge is obvious in this story. I found it all quite interesting and heartbreaking. It left me with a lot to think about for sure.
I am getting a little misty just thinking about it, but I. Loved. That. Ending. The epilogue was perfection for me. I am so grateful for that epilogue. It was everything for me.
Overall: A beautiful and emotional story of love and the human spirit, which deeply moved me and left me with many important things to ponder.
**I would like to thank NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the advanced copy of this book
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If I was pressed to summarize this book, I would pick the following part of the book blurb:
Told in alternating first person points of view, The Radius of Us is a story of love, sacrifice, and the journey from victim to survivor.
There was just so much I loved about this book, I don't even know where to start. This is a love story, a story of redemption, and a story of survival. This is story of gang violence, refugees, and the Central American Crisis. This book hit me on so many levels, and I was all in from the first page.
Both Phoenix and Gretchen were victims. Gretchen had been assaulted, and was suffering from PTSD. Phoenix was running from his gang-life past, and fighting for him and his little brother to stay in the US. These two were able to find solace in each other's company. Gretchen was able to feel safe; Phoenix was able to see a possible future. Both were hopeful, and I couldn't help but be hopeful with them.
Looking at that smile, I feel like I can breathe better, like the air has just changed to pure oxygen.
Phoenix's story definitely stole the show. My heart ached as I learned about his past. He had experienced so many difficult things in his 19 years, it did not seem quite fair. He made mistakes in the past, but he turned his life around. This idea that one can change, and one does not need to be defined by one's past is so important to me. I want to think that every mistake I make will not haunt me forever. I want to believe that I can overcome my past, and move forward towards good things. I need redemption stories to keep this flame of hope alive, and this book definitely fits the bill.
He's helping me come back alive. He's sort of amazing.
This book is also packed with great characters. I know many people will mention the diversity present in this book, because there is A LOT of diversity in this book. There are black, white, and Latino characters. Some are straight, some are gay. They are rich, poor, and in-between. They were from all walks of life, and all these different perspectives added to the beauty of this book. But besides being diverse, they were just beautiful characters. Sally and Amanda were the lovely lesbian couple, who took Phoenix into their home and were paying for his lawyer. But they did not just give him monetary support, they gave him genuine affection and support, and served as one of several mother figures in Phoenix's life. There was Bree and Ty Pennington (Trading Spaces anyone?), Gretchen's friends, who were struggling with how to help Gretch after the attack. I really liked that Marquardt surprised me with Ty. He turned out to be so much more than I thought he would be. Sister Mary Margaret, another mother figure, had given a lot to Phoenix, and continued to fight for him from afar. Finally, there was Barbie and Bo, the biker couple with hearts of gold. All were special and really enhanced the story.
I read the acknowledgements, and was not surprised to find that Marquardt is an immigration advocate. Her passion and knowledge is obvious in this story. I found it all quite interesting and heartbreaking. It left me with a lot to think about for sure.
I am getting a little misty just thinking about it, but I. Loved. That. Ending. The epilogue was perfection for me. I am so grateful for that epilogue. It was everything for me.
Overall: A beautiful and emotional story of love and the human spirit, which deeply moved me and left me with many important things to ponder.
**I would like to thank NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the advanced copy of this book
BLOG|INSTAGRAM|BLOGLOVIN| FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
February 5, 2017
I received this ARC from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book manages to tackle so much in such a short amount of time. Yes, there is romance… but it wasn’t love at first sight. It was panic at first sight. There was vulnerability and distrust. Excitement and fear. And somewhere along the way, this became understanding and healing. It might also be wise to include a trigger warning for trauma, physical assault, and gang violence. It’s all quite heavy in regard to subject matter, but you can also expect a story filled with hope and perseverance.
I really appreciated reading about Gretchen’s progress from victim to survivor. After her assault, she knows she will never be the same again but she’s starting to realize that maybe that doesn’t have to be a bad thing. People can adapt. They can be hurt, but they can also thrive and survive and grow. And she really grows into herself throughout this novel. The development is fantastic.
And then we have Phoenix. His story breaks my heart. Him and Ari are also survivors of some unpleasant circumstances. His home is no longer a home. All he wants is to keep his brother safe, but the threat of deportation (and ultimately, death) is wearing him down. No one ever said it would be easy, but he’s certainly not giving up on his brother. It’s only a matter of whether he’s willing to fight for himself, too.
Needless to say, this book has some great representation. I was really looking forward to reading it when the synopsis hinted at immigration struggles. We need more stories like this. There are so many people like Ari and Phoenix, who had no choice but to leave the only place they’ve ever known, simply because they know they would not survive if they stayed. People like my parents. Their particular struggles just really struck a chord in me.
After reading the author’s biography, I can tell that she has some firsthand experience with the immigration process, and that she is passionate about spreading awareness and helping others who fight for their freedom every day. I really respect her for that, and I love even more that she wrote this book because of it.
In any case, those are my two cents. This was a stellar read.
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“I have this strange feeling that we’re both on our way to someplace better.”A lot can happen in 90 seconds, and even more can happen in 304 pages. The synopsis said it best: This book is about victims becoming survivors. It’s about violence, trauma, life, love, and safety. It’s about family and home. And it was all written sincerely and beautifully.
This book manages to tackle so much in such a short amount of time. Yes, there is romance… but it wasn’t love at first sight. It was panic at first sight. There was vulnerability and distrust. Excitement and fear. And somewhere along the way, this became understanding and healing. It might also be wise to include a trigger warning for trauma, physical assault, and gang violence. It’s all quite heavy in regard to subject matter, but you can also expect a story filled with hope and perseverance.
I really appreciated reading about Gretchen’s progress from victim to survivor. After her assault, she knows she will never be the same again but she’s starting to realize that maybe that doesn’t have to be a bad thing. People can adapt. They can be hurt, but they can also thrive and survive and grow. And she really grows into herself throughout this novel. The development is fantastic.
And then we have Phoenix. His story breaks my heart. Him and Ari are also survivors of some unpleasant circumstances. His home is no longer a home. All he wants is to keep his brother safe, but the threat of deportation (and ultimately, death) is wearing him down. No one ever said it would be easy, but he’s certainly not giving up on his brother. It’s only a matter of whether he’s willing to fight for himself, too.
Needless to say, this book has some great representation. I was really looking forward to reading it when the synopsis hinted at immigration struggles. We need more stories like this. There are so many people like Ari and Phoenix, who had no choice but to leave the only place they’ve ever known, simply because they know they would not survive if they stayed. People like my parents. Their particular struggles just really struck a chord in me.
After reading the author’s biography, I can tell that she has some firsthand experience with the immigration process, and that she is passionate about spreading awareness and helping others who fight for their freedom every day. I really respect her for that, and I love even more that she wrote this book because of it.
In any case, those are my two cents. This was a stellar read.
Find me (and my reviews) elsewhere:
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October 15, 2016
I received a copy of this book for free through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
3.5 out of 5 stars
This is a really cute contemporary read due to be released January 2017. The characters in this are really well developed and there is a lot of raw emotion scattered throughout. They deal with issues such as gangs which I personally haven't read too much about in YA novels so I thought that was incredibly refreshing. With some realistic life struggles, witty banter and heart, this is basically a contemporary lovers dream. The only reason I didn't bump this up to a 4 is because I was a little under-whelmed in a few parts. Nonetheless this is getting awesome reviews over on Goodreads so I recommend checking these out and adding it to your TBR.
3.5 out of 5 stars
This is a really cute contemporary read due to be released January 2017. The characters in this are really well developed and there is a lot of raw emotion scattered throughout. They deal with issues such as gangs which I personally haven't read too much about in YA novels so I thought that was incredibly refreshing. With some realistic life struggles, witty banter and heart, this is basically a contemporary lovers dream. The only reason I didn't bump this up to a 4 is because I was a little under-whelmed in a few parts. Nonetheless this is getting awesome reviews over on Goodreads so I recommend checking these out and adding it to your TBR.
December 19, 2016
*ARC provided by St. Martins in exchange for an honest review*
This was my first read by Marie and I am honestly itching to read more of what she has to offer. I always mention on my reviews whether I have grown to respect a character but I will take a moment to point out that my respect was fully stolen by Marie herself. As a Latina and part Salvadoran, I appreciated the way she represented us immensely. This is probably the first time I've seen Spanish used so perfectly in a book. I have HUGE expectations when Spanish is used anywhere but I soon found out that Marie knows what she's doing and I had nothing to worry about. My ethnicity made me connect to this story immediately and I can't even begin to express my appreciation and devotion towards this novel. But, of course, I will try my best.
This book's told in two point views and I have to say that I am biased towards the male one. We have Gretchen who is a trauma survivor and who I wished I could heal immediately. Her personality was cute and I found myself liking her right off the bat. I loved how we got to witness just how much her old life was shattered beyond repair and what she did to resolve it.
Then we have Phoenix who was born in El Salvador but is now residing in Atlanta. I had such a vivid picture of him in my mind that it was a breath of fresh air since I am horrible when it comes to picturing characters. Phoenix is running away from his home state and is looking for asylum for him and his brother. Let's just say that his story shattered my heart and soul into a million pieces, repeatedly. Especially as I witnessed just how beautiful his heart was and how much love he had to offer to those around him. The injustices he had to suffer through were just so undeserved that I want to tear up just thinking about them. I also loved how his favorite food is pupusas which is a meal that my mom prepares quite often at our house. I wished he was real just so I could invite him over to eat some with us.
I loved how they brought out the best in each other and I couldn't get enough of them. The backstories of these characters felt so raw and real that it seemed like I could encounter them in the street someday. If all wishes came true I would visit these guys in person and hug them with such force to let them know just how much I look up to them. They have taught me a lot of things in just 300 pages and I couldn't help rooting for them 1001% of the way. I felt so protective of them that they minus well should have been my own flesh and blood.
I had some really high expectations for this novel ever since I heard that this book was going to be about a Latino character but Marie made me forget about them with just the first couple of sentences. This story had me crying, laughing, giggling, blushing, and everything in between. This novel was heartbreaking while at the same time uplifting. I enjoyed how there were some illustrations and articles in the mix as well. I loved every single (nice) character that I was introduced to and I need more of everyone! I am so fond of everything this novel encompasses that I can't thank Marie enough for writing such a beautiful and profound piece of literature. This book will stay with me until the end of time.
6/5 stars!
This was my first read by Marie and I am honestly itching to read more of what she has to offer. I always mention on my reviews whether I have grown to respect a character but I will take a moment to point out that my respect was fully stolen by Marie herself. As a Latina and part Salvadoran, I appreciated the way she represented us immensely. This is probably the first time I've seen Spanish used so perfectly in a book. I have HUGE expectations when Spanish is used anywhere but I soon found out that Marie knows what she's doing and I had nothing to worry about. My ethnicity made me connect to this story immediately and I can't even begin to express my appreciation and devotion towards this novel. But, of course, I will try my best.
This book's told in two point views and I have to say that I am biased towards the male one. We have Gretchen who is a trauma survivor and who I wished I could heal immediately. Her personality was cute and I found myself liking her right off the bat. I loved how we got to witness just how much her old life was shattered beyond repair and what she did to resolve it.
Then we have Phoenix who was born in El Salvador but is now residing in Atlanta. I had such a vivid picture of him in my mind that it was a breath of fresh air since I am horrible when it comes to picturing characters. Phoenix is running away from his home state and is looking for asylum for him and his brother. Let's just say that his story shattered my heart and soul into a million pieces, repeatedly. Especially as I witnessed just how beautiful his heart was and how much love he had to offer to those around him. The injustices he had to suffer through were just so undeserved that I want to tear up just thinking about them. I also loved how his favorite food is pupusas which is a meal that my mom prepares quite often at our house. I wished he was real just so I could invite him over to eat some with us.
I loved how they brought out the best in each other and I couldn't get enough of them. The backstories of these characters felt so raw and real that it seemed like I could encounter them in the street someday. If all wishes came true I would visit these guys in person and hug them with such force to let them know just how much I look up to them. They have taught me a lot of things in just 300 pages and I couldn't help rooting for them 1001% of the way. I felt so protective of them that they minus well should have been my own flesh and blood.
I had some really high expectations for this novel ever since I heard that this book was going to be about a Latino character but Marie made me forget about them with just the first couple of sentences. This story had me crying, laughing, giggling, blushing, and everything in between. This novel was heartbreaking while at the same time uplifting. I enjoyed how there were some illustrations and articles in the mix as well. I loved every single (nice) character that I was introduced to and I need more of everyone! I am so fond of everything this novel encompasses that I can't thank Marie enough for writing such a beautiful and profound piece of literature. This book will stay with me until the end of time.
6/5 stars!
November 28, 2016
In this book we find two main characters struggling with trauma and helping each other to overcome it. On the one hand, there is Gretchen, a girl who suffers PTSD after being assaulted one night by a stranger. On the other hand, there is Phoenix, a latino boy seeking asylum in the US, who has gone through really terrible things. When they meet, they rely on each other and take care of one another, and it's beautiful to see how they connect.
"The radius of us" deals with important issues such as mental health and racism. It shows that there are people who suffer a lot even though they haven't scars you can see, that their pain is real and valid, and they need people to listen to them. Moreover, it talks about a hard reality that affects lots of people nowadays, people who have to leave their homes because their lives are threatened there... only to find a very hostile atmosphere in their chosen destinations. These subjects are hard, but they are true and it's important we talk about them in order to open eyes and minds.
Despite everything, the book gives you hope and I think we all need a bit of it these days. This books tells you that you are loved, and no matter what you did in the past or what was done to you because it doesn't define you. This book is important and I need everybody to read it.
*I received a digital copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
"The radius of us" deals with important issues such as mental health and racism. It shows that there are people who suffer a lot even though they haven't scars you can see, that their pain is real and valid, and they need people to listen to them. Moreover, it talks about a hard reality that affects lots of people nowadays, people who have to leave their homes because their lives are threatened there... only to find a very hostile atmosphere in their chosen destinations. These subjects are hard, but they are true and it's important we talk about them in order to open eyes and minds.
Despite everything, the book gives you hope and I think we all need a bit of it these days. This books tells you that you are loved, and no matter what you did in the past or what was done to you because it doesn't define you. This book is important and I need everybody to read it.
*I received a digital copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 23, 2021
WOW. There's nothing I love more than reading a book in one day, especially if it was a workday. I absolutely loved this. I loved Gretchen and Phoenix, and Sally and Amanda, and Bo and Barbie. I loved the way we alternated POVs and got to see Gretchen and Phoenix fall for each other through both perspectives. I loved watching them work through their trauma and help each other get through panic attacks and phobias.
My only complaint would be that I want more. I wish the book was a little longer so we could've seen more development of their friendship before they started dating. I would have loved more scenes working on the garden together and just talking and bonding. But I think this book worked with fewer of those scenes because we had the alternating POVs to let us learn about both characters and their feelings for each other.
This book was sweet and heartwarming and heartbreaking and a really good, quick read.
My only complaint would be that I want more. I wish the book was a little longer so we could've seen more development of their friendship before they started dating. I would have loved more scenes working on the garden together and just talking and bonding. But I think this book worked with fewer of those scenes because we had the alternating POVs to let us learn about both characters and their feelings for each other.
This book was sweet and heartwarming and heartbreaking and a really good, quick read.
January 2, 2019
Such an important book, especially during our current political climate. Loved all of the characters!
February 7, 2017
4.5/5 Stars!
Marie Marquardt is a college professor at Emory University residing in Decatur, Georgia. Her debut novel, DREAM THINGS TRUE, released in 2015. THE RADIUS OF US is her second novel encountering immigration in the southern United States, and she is an immigration advocate and co-chair of the Georgia nonprofit El Refugio.
THE RADIUS OF US is the story of two teenagers, Phoenix and Gretchen, whose lives connect in the most surprising ways. Phoenix, an asylum-seeker and survivor from El Salvador, is taken in by a wealthy couple in Atlanta while his little brother is left in a detention facility in Texas. Meanwhile, Gretchen connects with Phoenix because they are both deeply changed by the trauma they have suffered being survivors of gang violence. This novel explores the messiness that is the US immigration system, and the human voices that are so significantly affected by it.
When I found out about THE RADIUS OF US, I was very excited to read it because I read and reviewed Marie’s novel DREAM THINGS TRUE for Teenreads in 2015 and met Marie at the Decatur Book Festival in 2015. I am impressed by how much Marie’s writing has grown since her debut, and I will definitely continue to read her books. She offers such an excellent perspective on immigration because she has actually worked with immigrants and uses bits of their stories to write her novel. One of the most interesting parts of THE RADIUS OF US is that it takes place relatively close to where I live, close enough that I recognize the places the characters visit in the story. I think it is critical that all areas and backgrounds are represented in Young Adult Literature, and I always appreciate books written by authors from Atlanta and when the setting of the book is Atlanta.
What I appreciate greatly about THE RADIUS OF US is its ability to increase empathy in teens. It is such an important story because it is one that is similar to that of so many real people. Phoenix’s story is inspiring and allows the reader to humanize the stories of immigrants, which I believe is not done enough today. Having Gretchen as the main character was one of the best decisions that Marie could have made when writing. Gretchen sees the world through the lens of an American teen, and it allows readers to connect with her. She has an interesting connection to gangs because of her trauma, but she doesn’t put the pieces together until she meets Phoenix.
At the core, THE RADIUS OF US is a love story. Despite Phoenix and Gretchen coming from vastly different backgrounds, they still manage to have so much chemistry. Both are working through their own issues, and they can help each other through that. Another vital component of THE RADIUS OF US is family. Gretchen has her parents who, though they mean well, do not necessarily know what is best for her. Gretchen can find family in her friends and Phoenix. Phoenix does not have anyone except for his brother, but he is such a kind person that everyone he meets wants to help him. Phoenix is able to find his family in complete strangers, and it makes for really compelling relationships in this story.
Every teen and every person should read THE RADIUS OF US. With the politically charged society that we live in, sometimes you just have to put yourself in someone else’s shoes. This novel is bound to resonate with teens who have had little connection to real stories of immigration before reading THE RADIUS OF US, as well as those who are extremely passionate about immigration already.
*I received a copy for review from St. Martin's Press to be featured on Teenreads.com. All thoughts and opinions are my own. ---->Link to review coming soon!
Marie Marquardt is a college professor at Emory University residing in Decatur, Georgia. Her debut novel, DREAM THINGS TRUE, released in 2015. THE RADIUS OF US is her second novel encountering immigration in the southern United States, and she is an immigration advocate and co-chair of the Georgia nonprofit El Refugio.
THE RADIUS OF US is the story of two teenagers, Phoenix and Gretchen, whose lives connect in the most surprising ways. Phoenix, an asylum-seeker and survivor from El Salvador, is taken in by a wealthy couple in Atlanta while his little brother is left in a detention facility in Texas. Meanwhile, Gretchen connects with Phoenix because they are both deeply changed by the trauma they have suffered being survivors of gang violence. This novel explores the messiness that is the US immigration system, and the human voices that are so significantly affected by it.
When I found out about THE RADIUS OF US, I was very excited to read it because I read and reviewed Marie’s novel DREAM THINGS TRUE for Teenreads in 2015 and met Marie at the Decatur Book Festival in 2015. I am impressed by how much Marie’s writing has grown since her debut, and I will definitely continue to read her books. She offers such an excellent perspective on immigration because she has actually worked with immigrants and uses bits of their stories to write her novel. One of the most interesting parts of THE RADIUS OF US is that it takes place relatively close to where I live, close enough that I recognize the places the characters visit in the story. I think it is critical that all areas and backgrounds are represented in Young Adult Literature, and I always appreciate books written by authors from Atlanta and when the setting of the book is Atlanta.
What I appreciate greatly about THE RADIUS OF US is its ability to increase empathy in teens. It is such an important story because it is one that is similar to that of so many real people. Phoenix’s story is inspiring and allows the reader to humanize the stories of immigrants, which I believe is not done enough today. Having Gretchen as the main character was one of the best decisions that Marie could have made when writing. Gretchen sees the world through the lens of an American teen, and it allows readers to connect with her. She has an interesting connection to gangs because of her trauma, but she doesn’t put the pieces together until she meets Phoenix.
At the core, THE RADIUS OF US is a love story. Despite Phoenix and Gretchen coming from vastly different backgrounds, they still manage to have so much chemistry. Both are working through their own issues, and they can help each other through that. Another vital component of THE RADIUS OF US is family. Gretchen has her parents who, though they mean well, do not necessarily know what is best for her. Gretchen can find family in her friends and Phoenix. Phoenix does not have anyone except for his brother, but he is such a kind person that everyone he meets wants to help him. Phoenix is able to find his family in complete strangers, and it makes for really compelling relationships in this story.
Every teen and every person should read THE RADIUS OF US. With the politically charged society that we live in, sometimes you just have to put yourself in someone else’s shoes. This novel is bound to resonate with teens who have had little connection to real stories of immigration before reading THE RADIUS OF US, as well as those who are extremely passionate about immigration already.
*I received a copy for review from St. Martin's Press to be featured on Teenreads.com. All thoughts and opinions are my own. ---->Link to review coming soon!
February 28, 2017
A shining example of why we (as a culture) need diverse books. There are situations so terrible that we can scarcely imagine them, much less be empathetic towards those enduring that sort of pain. Stories like these help with that--and they encourage readers to reach out and be helped by people they love in times of trouble. Plus, it's a good read.
October 20, 2016
*** I received an ARC of this book from St. Martin's Press and NetGalley in exchange for a honest review. However, this does not influence my opinions in any way.***
I read this book on a whim. I jumped in knowing nothing. I was presently surprised. I read this book in small chunks, 10-15 minutes at a time between classes and regretted having to put the book down every time. I couldn't put my finger on it, but I felt drawn to this book. I obviously couldn't relate to the characters very much (aside from panic attacks), but the whole story still felt familiar.
One of my favorite things about this book is that everyone is flawed. There is no perfect person or someone that seems out of place. Everyone has their demons that they have to fight with, but that's what makes them stronger. Everyone is dealing with serious situations that could possibly end in live or death and they have to fight to make everything okay again. Nothing is simple or just plain black and white. There are layers to everyone and every thing.
Overall I'd say this book isn't just about a young couple trying to make things work. It's about internal struggle and coming to terms with who you are and your situation. People aren't always happy with the life they have been dealt, but that doesn't mean you should give up and accept defeat. This book tackles learning to accept your past and make it apart of you, but not define you. You shouldn't let your troubles control your life. You need to learn to seize your issues and move past them.
I would definitely recommend this book. It isn't a normal love story or contemporary novel. It is a story about life and coming to terms with life not always going as planned.
I read this book on a whim. I jumped in knowing nothing. I was presently surprised. I read this book in small chunks, 10-15 minutes at a time between classes and regretted having to put the book down every time. I couldn't put my finger on it, but I felt drawn to this book. I obviously couldn't relate to the characters very much (aside from panic attacks), but the whole story still felt familiar.
One of my favorite things about this book is that everyone is flawed. There is no perfect person or someone that seems out of place. Everyone has their demons that they have to fight with, but that's what makes them stronger. Everyone is dealing with serious situations that could possibly end in live or death and they have to fight to make everything okay again. Nothing is simple or just plain black and white. There are layers to everyone and every thing.
Overall I'd say this book isn't just about a young couple trying to make things work. It's about internal struggle and coming to terms with who you are and your situation. People aren't always happy with the life they have been dealt, but that doesn't mean you should give up and accept defeat. This book tackles learning to accept your past and make it apart of you, but not define you. You shouldn't let your troubles control your life. You need to learn to seize your issues and move past them.
I would definitely recommend this book. It isn't a normal love story or contemporary novel. It is a story about life and coming to terms with life not always going as planned.
July 1, 2017
Actual Rating: 3.5
This book was Fluffy and very very educating.
I'll be honest here I didn't know much about the situation of illegal immigrants from Latin America but the author made an amazing story of Pheonix who is an illegal immigrant from El Salvador and the problem he faces (Which opened up my eye ) then he meets a girl named Gretchen and the story goes and although this is sweet contemporary which this book made me surprised sometimes.To be honest, I cared about Pheonix more, I cared about his little brother and sometimes I had ghost tears in my eyes because of their story.
I found the Spanish phrases which the author included added a depth to the story "although I had to google them because I know 5 Spanish words "
The thing that annoyed me about this book that it was a little bit instalove-ish which I know this book isn't meant to be completely realistic but You don't tell people about your panic attacks the first time you met them #unrealistic.
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Overall it was a good book and if you're looking for a fluffy book but also an educating book this is perfect for you.
Thank you St. Martin's Press for providing this ecopy in exchange for an honest review
This book was Fluffy and very very educating.
I'll be honest here I didn't know much about the situation of illegal immigrants from Latin America but the author made an amazing story of Pheonix who is an illegal immigrant from El Salvador and the problem he faces (Which opened up my eye ) then he meets a girl named Gretchen and the story goes and although this is sweet contemporary which this book made me surprised sometimes.To be honest, I cared about Pheonix more, I cared about his little brother and sometimes I had ghost tears in my eyes because of their story.
I found the Spanish phrases which the author included added a depth to the story "although I had to google them because I know 5 Spanish words "
The thing that annoyed me about this book that it was a little bit instalove-ish which I know this book isn't meant to be completely realistic but You don't tell people about your panic attacks the first time you met them #unrealistic.
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Overall it was a good book and if you're looking for a fluffy book but also an educating book this is perfect for you.
Thank you St. Martin's Press for providing this ecopy in exchange for an honest review
December 19, 2016
This book was fabulous! I loved it from page one! It was so beautifully written. I kept highlighting my favorite passages and had to stop because I was highlighting the whole book! The story is told from two points of view. Gretchen, is recovering from a violent attack in an alley a few months ago. Phoenix escaped with his little brother from a gang in El Salvador who was trying to kill them. He is trying to become a US citizen but his past could keep him from this dream. Gretchen unexpectedly runs into Phoenix mistaking him for her attacker. What ensues is an unlikely relationship. This book sheds light on the danger teens face due to the gang activity in South America and these teens running for their lives to America. Another great thing about this book is that there are several beautiful drawings through out.
September 4, 2017
DNF @ 25%
I've tried to read this book for the third time now, and I'm officially giving up.
When I read the synopsis of this book, I was really intrigued and wanted to read it. I really wanted to read more about both characters, especially Pheonix, being an immigrant myself I wanted to read his side of the story.
Instead what I got was an insta-love romance that just made me cringe and eye roll at almost anything that happened. As the romance become more important in the story, I realized that I couldn't read this book anymore.
I've read some lovely reviews about this book, unfortunately it just wasn't for me.
Happy Reading,
Aneta
I've tried to read this book for the third time now, and I'm officially giving up.
When I read the synopsis of this book, I was really intrigued and wanted to read it. I really wanted to read more about both characters, especially Pheonix, being an immigrant myself I wanted to read his side of the story.
Instead what I got was an insta-love romance that just made me cringe and eye roll at almost anything that happened. As the romance become more important in the story, I realized that I couldn't read this book anymore.
I've read some lovely reviews about this book, unfortunately it just wasn't for me.
Happy Reading,
Aneta
June 10, 2018
"Well, lemme tell you something, Phoenix: you gotta make your own happy ending."
"Then leave it behind: don't let that stuff from your past tell you who you are."
“I have this strange feeling that we're both on our way to someplace better.”
Soundtrack: Here With You by Jake Nauta
"Then leave it behind: don't let that stuff from your past tell you who you are."
“I have this strange feeling that we're both on our way to someplace better.”
Soundtrack: Here With You by Jake Nauta
September 19, 2017
For a quick read, author, Marie Marquardt, packs a lot plot, emotion, and character development. Gretchen was attacked late one night after work as she walked alone to her car. She is left with guilt, blame, and the knowledge that her life will never be the same. She now lives in fear, can no longer go to school, doesn’t feel the same way about her longtime boyfriend, and can’t imagine her future. This is why, one day at the park while she’s playing with her little cousins, she has a major freak out / legit panic attack when she sees a boy in the trees who reminds her of her attacker . . . Phoenix spent months on the run from the vicious gang he was forced to join crossing the border into the US from El Salvador, his little brother in tow. He was forced to leave his little brother at a protected center for children seeking asylum while he was saved by some lovely citizens who heard his story and wanted to try to help him avoid deportation and maybe help him seek asylum, too. Phoenix now lives with these lovely citizens in an upper-middle class, white, suburban neighborhood in Atlanta. One day, feeling lost about his place in the world, he was walking through the trees in the local park when he sees this girl . . . Obviously, it’s not love at first sight for Gretchen and Phoenix, but the second time Gretchen sees him around her neighborhood, she approaches him (so brave!) and they become friends. The attraction and emotional need for each other are instant and their friendship develops quickly, but their lives are extremely complicated so their love story takes a while to develop WHICH IS PERFECT.
Marie Marquardt uses her personal experiences as an immigration advocate to write fictional accounts of the real, messy, heartbreaking lives of immigrants. She says, “I believe that, through story, we can connect to others in a deep, meaningful way – which can be a powerful tool against the hate, fear, and misunderstanding that plague our society.” Preach, Ms. Marquardt! The publisher’s book description says that this is a book that explores “the journey from victim to survivor.” I LOVE that. The Radius of Us is a read that will empower SURVIVORS of any kind of trauma and will satisfy readers who appreciate realistic fiction with a bit of romance. The Radius of Us is a no-brainer for Gateway.
Marie Marquardt uses her personal experiences as an immigration advocate to write fictional accounts of the real, messy, heartbreaking lives of immigrants. She says, “I believe that, through story, we can connect to others in a deep, meaningful way – which can be a powerful tool against the hate, fear, and misunderstanding that plague our society.” Preach, Ms. Marquardt! The publisher’s book description says that this is a book that explores “the journey from victim to survivor.” I LOVE that. The Radius of Us is a read that will empower SURVIVORS of any kind of trauma and will satisfy readers who appreciate realistic fiction with a bit of romance. The Radius of Us is a no-brainer for Gateway.
June 29, 2017
ARC Received courtesy of Goodreads.com First Reads Giveaway
This book was timely and heart-wrenching. Phoenix is an 18 year-old immigrant on the run from the awfulness that is El Salvador. It took him 4 months to get his 13 year-old brother from El Salvador to the United States; that journey changed them both forever. Most of our American kids have no idea what a horrifying reality Central America has become, the journey to get here even more terrifying. Phoenix is living in Atlanta with a couple who want to help him get asylum to stay here.
Phoenix meets Gretchen who has had her own run-in with Central American gang life. Gretchen is as broken as Phoenix but together they begin to heal. I cannot say much more because I don't believe in spoiling a book. I will just say---read it....You will weep and cheer for these kids and maybe look at your own kids a bit differently.
I will hand this book to my friend who teaches YA lit at the college level with a strong recommendation to read it.
This book was timely and heart-wrenching. Phoenix is an 18 year-old immigrant on the run from the awfulness that is El Salvador. It took him 4 months to get his 13 year-old brother from El Salvador to the United States; that journey changed them both forever. Most of our American kids have no idea what a horrifying reality Central America has become, the journey to get here even more terrifying. Phoenix is living in Atlanta with a couple who want to help him get asylum to stay here.
Phoenix meets Gretchen who has had her own run-in with Central American gang life. Gretchen is as broken as Phoenix but together they begin to heal. I cannot say much more because I don't believe in spoiling a book. I will just say---read it....You will weep and cheer for these kids and maybe look at your own kids a bit differently.
I will hand this book to my friend who teaches YA lit at the college level with a strong recommendation to read it.
October 27, 2021
loved loved loved
April 25, 2024
LOVED the romance in this book so so so much!!
March 19, 2017
A heart wrenching, beautifully told love story that centers on two young adults with serious troubles. She is a recent assault victim suffering from PTSD, he's an El Salvadoran refugee seeking asylum in the US. It's an illuminating tale that does an excellent job giving the reader a sense of the huge difficulty persecuted refugees face trying to flee horrific conditions and be productive immigrants in America. An important read.
February 19, 2017
I received an e-arc of this book by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. This did not affect my opinion of the book in any way.
I was very surprised by this book. I requested it on NetGalley because the premise intrigued me, but at the same time I was scared that the Great Themes Mentioned in the Blurb would just fall flat in yet another YA romance with very little substance. Boy, was I wrong! Love is definitely a big theme in the book, but it goes so much further than merely instalove.
Gretchen and Phoenix have both been victims of trauma, even though their situations at first could not seem more different one from the other: Gretchen is the typical good girl from a nice American family; Phoenix is an asylum seeker, labelled illegal, fleeing from a situation so terrible even he has trouble talking about. What saves both of them is indeed love: the one they slowly develop for one another; Phoenix's love for his little brother, Ari; the love of their families and friends for these two survivors; and the love each of them reignites for himself. There are many layers to this story, many ways in which it can be read and appreciated. I'm sure that when I'll read this book again I'll discover so many more new themes that will leave me thinking.
This time, I particularly enjoyed the fact that the author decided to dedicate a book to surviving trauma, to mental health and panic attacks and how disruptive they can be. I loved that fact that she shed a light on a topical issue such as that of immigration and asylum. These are the real issues we are faced with everyday, yet we know remarkably little about. It is all too easy to fear what is "different", what looks strange and new, without ever bothering to understand what lies beneath. It is up to authors like Marie Marquardt to turn on the lights and confront these issues head on.
All of this, coupled with an excellent writing style and lovable, well-developed characters, makes The Radius of Us a very pleasant surprise indeed. Highly recommended.
For this and more reviews, visit Book for Thought.
I was very surprised by this book. I requested it on NetGalley because the premise intrigued me, but at the same time I was scared that the Great Themes Mentioned in the Blurb would just fall flat in yet another YA romance with very little substance. Boy, was I wrong! Love is definitely a big theme in the book, but it goes so much further than merely instalove.
Gretchen and Phoenix have both been victims of trauma, even though their situations at first could not seem more different one from the other: Gretchen is the typical good girl from a nice American family; Phoenix is an asylum seeker, labelled illegal, fleeing from a situation so terrible even he has trouble talking about. What saves both of them is indeed love: the one they slowly develop for one another; Phoenix's love for his little brother, Ari; the love of their families and friends for these two survivors; and the love each of them reignites for himself. There are many layers to this story, many ways in which it can be read and appreciated. I'm sure that when I'll read this book again I'll discover so many more new themes that will leave me thinking.
This time, I particularly enjoyed the fact that the author decided to dedicate a book to surviving trauma, to mental health and panic attacks and how disruptive they can be. I loved that fact that she shed a light on a topical issue such as that of immigration and asylum. These are the real issues we are faced with everyday, yet we know remarkably little about. It is all too easy to fear what is "different", what looks strange and new, without ever bothering to understand what lies beneath. It is up to authors like Marie Marquardt to turn on the lights and confront these issues head on.
All of this, coupled with an excellent writing style and lovable, well-developed characters, makes The Radius of Us a very pleasant surprise indeed. Highly recommended.
For this and more reviews, visit Book for Thought.
February 16, 2017
I really enjoyed Marquardt's Dream Things True, and was eager to read her next book. The Radius of Us blew me away- it is even better than her first, and this story is so important to tell. Phoenix and Gretchen are compelling narrators, and while sometimes jumping between narrators can feel distracting or jarring, I never felt that with this book. I cried at the end, not gonna lie. Digital ARC courtesy of Netgalley.
September 18, 2016
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this arc to read and review.
The Radius of Us is a young adult contemporary set for release in January 2017. It follows the story of two teenagers - Gretchen and Phoenix of whom have both undergone significant trauma.
I found this book refreshing and I really enjoyed it. Considering I am Australian, it was very informative about US immigration issues. I have not seen much of this in young adult literature before.
I adored the characters and the way their stories were intertwined throughout the novel. The alternate point of views were engaging and easy to follow. I applaud the Author's use of diversity in this book - mental health, ethnic diversity, LGBT+, trauma and gang violence. I especially loved Marquardt's depiction of panic attacks. I fairly accurate portray considering I suffer with anxiety myself.
Overall, I loved this! I thought it carried a very important message and I'd recommend it as a must read for everyone!
The Radius of Us is a young adult contemporary set for release in January 2017. It follows the story of two teenagers - Gretchen and Phoenix of whom have both undergone significant trauma.
I found this book refreshing and I really enjoyed it. Considering I am Australian, it was very informative about US immigration issues. I have not seen much of this in young adult literature before.
I adored the characters and the way their stories were intertwined throughout the novel. The alternate point of views were engaging and easy to follow. I applaud the Author's use of diversity in this book - mental health, ethnic diversity, LGBT+, trauma and gang violence. I especially loved Marquardt's depiction of panic attacks. I fairly accurate portray considering I suffer with anxiety myself.
Overall, I loved this! I thought it carried a very important message and I'd recommend it as a must read for everyone!
January 12, 2017
I struggled to connect with the chapters from Phoenix's point-of-view at first, but once I was a few chapters in, I was pretty hooked.
The story, though, is definitely what drew me in. I loved that both characters had some kind of trauma to overcome, and that both had to put their own issues aside when it came to helping Phoenix's little brother, Ari. The drawings in the story (Ari's artwork) also added a cool layer to the story. I loved the way those were worked in.
Marquardt has this amazing way of pulling social issues into the story without making it sound overly preachy or letting the issue dominate the character or situation. The story keeps a great balance between all those kinds of elements. The side characters all had some quirks and interesting character, too, which I enjoyed. Overall, I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a romance or book that touches on current social issues.
The story, though, is definitely what drew me in. I loved that both characters had some kind of trauma to overcome, and that both had to put their own issues aside when it came to helping Phoenix's little brother, Ari. The drawings in the story (Ari's artwork) also added a cool layer to the story. I loved the way those were worked in.
Marquardt has this amazing way of pulling social issues into the story without making it sound overly preachy or letting the issue dominate the character or situation. The story keeps a great balance between all those kinds of elements. The side characters all had some quirks and interesting character, too, which I enjoyed. Overall, I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a romance or book that touches on current social issues.
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