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Stop The World
Based on a true story.
Beauty Queen, Jody Angel Taylor, believes her life is all mapped out - glamorous, clever and popular, and due to marry her handsome boyfriend, she has it all. Until one night she has a devastating car crash, ending up paralyzed - and her perfect world collapses.
Committing media suicide and publicly blamed for her own accident, everything around her falls apart. She becomes a lonely recluse, feeling she’s lost everything including her legs - her boyfriend to her best friend, her father to an affair, her mother to depression - but above all she fears losing her mind.
What she doesn’t know is that someone across the globe is about to throw her a lifeline. Can she find the courage to take it?
Determined to love again and clear her name, she embarks on a new adventure that will transform her life beyond all expectations.
Beauty Queen, Jody Angel Taylor, believes her life is all mapped out - glamorous, clever and popular, and due to marry her handsome boyfriend, she has it all. Until one night she has a devastating car crash, ending up paralyzed - and her perfect world collapses.
Committing media suicide and publicly blamed for her own accident, everything around her falls apart. She becomes a lonely recluse, feeling she’s lost everything including her legs - her boyfriend to her best friend, her father to an affair, her mother to depression - but above all she fears losing her mind.
What she doesn’t know is that someone across the globe is about to throw her a lifeline. Can she find the courage to take it?
Determined to love again and clear her name, she embarks on a new adventure that will transform her life beyond all expectations.
- GenresRomance
214 pages, Paperback
First published November 28, 2015
3 people are currently reading
110 people want to read
About the author
Sherry Mayes
1 book22 followersI've worked as a journalist for nearly twenty years and have also written two self help books.
STOP THE WORLD is my first work of fiction. Inspired by the true story of a young girl I met over nine years ago, I was drawn into the fascinating world of my protagonist, Jody Angel Taylor. This YA story was an incredible journey for me as it's set in Cedarville, North California, a place that has become so tangible, I feel as if I actually live there.
Join me on Facebook for more updates.
https://www.facebook.com/SherryMayesa...
STOP THE WORLD is my first work of fiction. Inspired by the true story of a young girl I met over nine years ago, I was drawn into the fascinating world of my protagonist, Jody Angel Taylor. This YA story was an incredible journey for me as it's set in Cedarville, North California, a place that has become so tangible, I feel as if I actually live there.
Join me on Facebook for more updates.
https://www.facebook.com/SherryMayesa...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
February 27, 2016
This is a well-written, feel good story with just the right ingredients to keep you in suspense, make you cry from the good and bad, and also make you laugh. If you liked John Green’s “The Fault In Our Stars”, you’ll love Sherry Mayes’ “Stop the world.” This novel is about triumph and disaster, and as in Rudyard Kipling’s “If,” treats those two impostors the same. The story is seen through the eyes of main character and Beauty Queen, Jody Angel Taylor. Although Jody is/was a beauty queen, she is the prototype flawed and beautifully crafted protagonist.
I love the structure and pacing of “Stop the world”. We meet Jody at her lowest point, a broken girl who has to find some semblance of a life in the midst of chaos and misfortune. She must not only deal with her own physical, mental, and emotional demons, but somehow factor in her mother’s heartache as well. And deal with them she does. My favorite character is Annie aka Dr. Sledgehammer. She brings to mind Carla from the back-in-the-day sitcom “Cheers.” In short, “Stop the World” is unpredictable, inspiring, and a testament to the human spirit.
I love the structure and pacing of “Stop the world”. We meet Jody at her lowest point, a broken girl who has to find some semblance of a life in the midst of chaos and misfortune. She must not only deal with her own physical, mental, and emotional demons, but somehow factor in her mother’s heartache as well. And deal with them she does. My favorite character is Annie aka Dr. Sledgehammer. She brings to mind Carla from the back-in-the-day sitcom “Cheers.” In short, “Stop the World” is unpredictable, inspiring, and a testament to the human spirit.
February 27, 2016
This is a well-written, feel good story with just the right ingredients to keep you in suspense, make you cry from the good and bad, and also make you laugh. If you liked John Green’s “The Fault In Our Stars”, you’ll love Sherry Mayes’ “Stop the world.” This novel is about triumph and disaster, and as in Rudyard Kipling’s “If,” treats those two impostors the same. The story is seen through the eyes of main character and Beauty Queen, Jody Angel Taylor. Although Jody is/was a beauty queen, she is the prototype flawed and beautifully crafted protagonist.
I love the structure and pacing of “Stop the world”. We meet Jody at her lowest point, a broken girl who has to find some semblance of a life in the midst of chaos and misfortune. She must not only deal with her own physical, mental, and emotional demons, but somehow factor in her mother’s heartache as well. And deal with them she does. My favorite character is Annie aka Dr. Sledgehammer. She brings to mind Carla from the back-in-the-day sitcom “Cheers.” In short, “Stop the World” is unpredictable, inspiring, and a testament to the human spirit.
I love the structure and pacing of “Stop the world”. We meet Jody at her lowest point, a broken girl who has to find some semblance of a life in the midst of chaos and misfortune. She must not only deal with her own physical, mental, and emotional demons, but somehow factor in her mother’s heartache as well. And deal with them she does. My favorite character is Annie aka Dr. Sledgehammer. She brings to mind Carla from the back-in-the-day sitcom “Cheers.” In short, “Stop the World” is unpredictable, inspiring, and a testament to the human spirit.
May 27, 2016
This novel tells a powerful story, especially as the book is based on a true story and the journey of a real person. I felt a huge range of emotions whilst reading this book and felt like I wanted to meet the person the book is based around after I had read it. Someone I would really like to have coffee with.
The book tells the story of a beautiful young woman, a beauty queen known for her looks and a young woman who really has her entire sense of self built around that. Then everything changes...forever. A devastating accident leaves her body battered and bruised and her self-esteem and confidence in tatters. As her healing process begins she realises how much some of her friendships and relationships were built on her image, not the person she is inside and the saying "you don't know who your real friends are until the chips are down" is really suited to her story. I could relate, I went through a similar crisis that impacted my body, mind and sense of self and I also had to learn the hard way that not everybody can stand by your side, in fact some people can't even send a text to see if you are okay. She learns the same thing.
It would be easy for her to feel sorry for herself for the rest of her life but I loved her courage and determination to get better on every level (I also related), not only does that involve pushing herself physically but searching deep within for who she is and what really matters. It's one heck of a journey. I was really cheering her on with every improvement and wanting to give her a hug with every setback. It really gives some insight into what those who face disabilities either temporary or permanently go through. My hope is it might encourage some readers to have more understanding and empathy for the brave ones.
It's written in a way that flows and makes for an easy read, many would no doubt finish this book in one sitting, eager to see the final destination. It tackles a really important issue that impacts teens, young adults and women everywhere - that of how beauty is perceived to be powerful, desired and how "less" you might be without it. What happens when a life built around that takes an about turn? How do you find yourself? Who were you anyway? Did anyone see past your face?
With a host of characters that are in her life, those who leave it and those that enter, it's a great emotion stirring story. It had real impact knowing a real person went through this journey. The book is written from a young adult's perspective however anybody could enjoy this novel. It took me longer to read than most books as I kept having to set it aside as it touched me deeply in regards to my personal journey that I am still on. I am glad I can finally write this review! 4 stars.
Many thanks to the author, Sherry Mayes for sharing a copy of this book with me in exchange for an honest book review.
Thanks for reading my review! If you enjoyed it please leave me a “like” or a comment, I love to interact with other book lovers! For more of my book reviews, plenty of awesome books to win, author interviews and features come over to join me for book fun at: https://www.facebook.com/BookloverCat...
To follow me on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/promotethatbook
To enquire about joining my reviewers team: http://goo.gl/forms/GWMOvlofZg
Finally to enquire about my book publicity services: http://goo.gl/forms/eVwa2HFKnK
The book tells the story of a beautiful young woman, a beauty queen known for her looks and a young woman who really has her entire sense of self built around that. Then everything changes...forever. A devastating accident leaves her body battered and bruised and her self-esteem and confidence in tatters. As her healing process begins she realises how much some of her friendships and relationships were built on her image, not the person she is inside and the saying "you don't know who your real friends are until the chips are down" is really suited to her story. I could relate, I went through a similar crisis that impacted my body, mind and sense of self and I also had to learn the hard way that not everybody can stand by your side, in fact some people can't even send a text to see if you are okay. She learns the same thing.
It would be easy for her to feel sorry for herself for the rest of her life but I loved her courage and determination to get better on every level (I also related), not only does that involve pushing herself physically but searching deep within for who she is and what really matters. It's one heck of a journey. I was really cheering her on with every improvement and wanting to give her a hug with every setback. It really gives some insight into what those who face disabilities either temporary or permanently go through. My hope is it might encourage some readers to have more understanding and empathy for the brave ones.
It's written in a way that flows and makes for an easy read, many would no doubt finish this book in one sitting, eager to see the final destination. It tackles a really important issue that impacts teens, young adults and women everywhere - that of how beauty is perceived to be powerful, desired and how "less" you might be without it. What happens when a life built around that takes an about turn? How do you find yourself? Who were you anyway? Did anyone see past your face?
With a host of characters that are in her life, those who leave it and those that enter, it's a great emotion stirring story. It had real impact knowing a real person went through this journey. The book is written from a young adult's perspective however anybody could enjoy this novel. It took me longer to read than most books as I kept having to set it aside as it touched me deeply in regards to my personal journey that I am still on. I am glad I can finally write this review! 4 stars.
Many thanks to the author, Sherry Mayes for sharing a copy of this book with me in exchange for an honest book review.
Thanks for reading my review! If you enjoyed it please leave me a “like” or a comment, I love to interact with other book lovers! For more of my book reviews, plenty of awesome books to win, author interviews and features come over to join me for book fun at: https://www.facebook.com/BookloverCat...
To follow me on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/promotethatbook
To enquire about joining my reviewers team: http://goo.gl/forms/GWMOvlofZg
Finally to enquire about my book publicity services: http://goo.gl/forms/eVwa2HFKnK
December 7, 2015
I thoroughly enjoyed this heartwarming story about a girl coming of age and succeeding against all odds. Beautifully written and very addictive – Once I started reading, I couldn’t stop until I finished. The characters are all so beautifully drawn and they still haven’t let go of me. Loved Jody, her amazing resilience and strength of spirit. Felt for her. Adored her voice – funny, upbeat, sad but never wallowing, even though she had good cause. An amazing, spirited heroine – yes, she was vain and shallow in the beginning, but she didn’t know otherwise. I liked the way the author cleverly worked the story so we get to see Jody grow up and come into her own. Loved, loved, loved the ending. Adored Jody’s parents too, especially her mum. Loved Otto and especially liked Annie the sledgehammer. Sherry Mayes is an author to watch.
January 17, 2016
I tend to read a lot of alternate world type YA books (paranormal, dystopian) and Stop the World was a nice change for me. Although it is a work of fiction, it’s based on a true story and, therefore, very much “of this world”.
Jody is our main character and to some extent, we all know a Jody. She’s the one that everyone wants to be. She’s gorgeous, intelligent, wealthy, popular, and has the dream boyfriend. That is, until her life is forever changed by a car accident. Jody’s story is about learning the value of character over beauty. When face with being a paraplegic, she learns the shallow depth of her relationships, and herself. She learns that having a boyfriend, getting married, and living a life of high status isn’t what life is about. But the greatest lesson she learns is the value of knowing and loving yourself.
Jody isn’t a very likeable character in the begging of the story. She’s whiny and self-loathing. Not very attractive qualities, but hey, who wouldn’t have times like that if they were faced with her challenges. I will admit that because of where the story began, I wasn’t sure if I was going to like it. I would have gotten more quickly involved in it had it began from the beginning and progressed, rather than in the middle and then backtracked, if that makes sense. It would be the equivalent of saying “B,A,B,C”. However, the story picked up quickly after that and I really began digging in. The remaining three quarters of the book far outweighed the very beginning and earned it a five wing in my book!
Mayes teaches us that perfection isn’t real. The most important thing in life is attaining perfection, its about being a person that you can love and respect. It’s about loving someone for who they are and who they dream to be and be loved by someone who respects you enough to support you in your dreams.
Jody is our main character and to some extent, we all know a Jody. She’s the one that everyone wants to be. She’s gorgeous, intelligent, wealthy, popular, and has the dream boyfriend. That is, until her life is forever changed by a car accident. Jody’s story is about learning the value of character over beauty. When face with being a paraplegic, she learns the shallow depth of her relationships, and herself. She learns that having a boyfriend, getting married, and living a life of high status isn’t what life is about. But the greatest lesson she learns is the value of knowing and loving yourself.
Jody isn’t a very likeable character in the begging of the story. She’s whiny and self-loathing. Not very attractive qualities, but hey, who wouldn’t have times like that if they were faced with her challenges. I will admit that because of where the story began, I wasn’t sure if I was going to like it. I would have gotten more quickly involved in it had it began from the beginning and progressed, rather than in the middle and then backtracked, if that makes sense. It would be the equivalent of saying “B,A,B,C”. However, the story picked up quickly after that and I really began digging in. The remaining three quarters of the book far outweighed the very beginning and earned it a five wing in my book!
Mayes teaches us that perfection isn’t real. The most important thing in life is attaining perfection, its about being a person that you can love and respect. It’s about loving someone for who they are and who they dream to be and be loved by someone who respects you enough to support you in your dreams.
January 9, 2017
All my reviews can be found at: http://jessicasreadingroom.com
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Jody Angel Taylor has it all: She is a beauty queen, popular, has a new car, and just got engaged. She is also vain, shallow, and the typical self absorbed teenager. Then one night she is involved in a serious car accident and her life changes forever.
Jody is the narrator in Stop the World. She feels her life is over since she is now paralyzed from the waist down. She has a devastating interview, then people begin to blame her for the accident. Besides losing her freedom as she can’t walk anymore, Jody begins to lose everything else in her life in various ways: her best friend, her fiance, and her father. She tailspins into a depression and becomes a recluse of sorts and then she meets someone online. Things start to change for Jody. She begins to feel better about herself, but her journey is far from over. Can she come to terms with everything that has happened to her and what her life could become with being paralyzed?
Sherry Mayes does an incredible job of putting us in Jody’s head. We experience everything as Jody does. You don’t expect to like Jody as she is not likeable in the beginning, but as Jody changes, we grow to like her and begin to root for her. We see her challenges as she becomes determined to be able to walk again despite her doctor telling her that she never will. There are many times you can’t help but root for Jody. There are times you feel the things that Jody goes through. You want there to be a happy ending for her. As I was reading Stop the World, you can tell that Sherry Mayes did her research with showing the physical therapy that Jody goes through and setbacks that she also experiences. This is not a novel about loss, but a novel about the journey of a young woman and ultimately who she becomes.
Stop the World is based on a true story. I can’t help but want to know the actual story and learn about the young woman that this book is based on. If it is anything similar to Stop the World, it is a powerful story.
Stop the World is recommended.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Jody Angel Taylor has it all: She is a beauty queen, popular, has a new car, and just got engaged. She is also vain, shallow, and the typical self absorbed teenager. Then one night she is involved in a serious car accident and her life changes forever.
Jody is the narrator in Stop the World. She feels her life is over since she is now paralyzed from the waist down. She has a devastating interview, then people begin to blame her for the accident. Besides losing her freedom as she can’t walk anymore, Jody begins to lose everything else in her life in various ways: her best friend, her fiance, and her father. She tailspins into a depression and becomes a recluse of sorts and then she meets someone online. Things start to change for Jody. She begins to feel better about herself, but her journey is far from over. Can she come to terms with everything that has happened to her and what her life could become with being paralyzed?
Sherry Mayes does an incredible job of putting us in Jody’s head. We experience everything as Jody does. You don’t expect to like Jody as she is not likeable in the beginning, but as Jody changes, we grow to like her and begin to root for her. We see her challenges as she becomes determined to be able to walk again despite her doctor telling her that she never will. There are many times you can’t help but root for Jody. There are times you feel the things that Jody goes through. You want there to be a happy ending for her. As I was reading Stop the World, you can tell that Sherry Mayes did her research with showing the physical therapy that Jody goes through and setbacks that she also experiences. This is not a novel about loss, but a novel about the journey of a young woman and ultimately who she becomes.
Stop the World is based on a true story. I can’t help but want to know the actual story and learn about the young woman that this book is based on. If it is anything similar to Stop the World, it is a powerful story.
Stop the World is recommended.
December 1, 2015
This book is about a vain, shallow girl who has a car crash and everything in her life falls apart. She’s so used to being popular for her looks and having all her facebook and twitter followers, she can’t believe now that this has happened, that actually these thousands of internet buddies aren’t really her friends at all. Her character intrigued me. I felt sorry for her, then hated her, then loved her - she literally twisted my mind around. All you want in the end is for her to find some real happiness and I went on that journey with her compelled to know what happened. I can’t tell you the outcome because I don’t want to give away the plot, but it melted my heart, and really made me think about life and what really matters.
May 31, 2018
4 stars.
I enjoyed Stop the World quite a lot. Sherry Mayes clearly did her research and it showed.
The novel had a fantastic start. As the reader you instantly sympathise with Jody’s predicament. The description about her useless legs and how wretched her life has become was harrowing, plus the added strained relationship with both her mother and her father. Her father not being able to deal with Jody’s recent disability was particularly powerful.
I’d say There was a little too much telling and backstory in the first third of the book, and it was also a tough read. I loved how Jody had already gone through serious character development due to her accident before the book even begins, and then goes more as she comes to terms with her new life.
The writing in general was very strong and overall story has to be described as depressing but also realistic and an important story to be told.
I’d certainly recommend Stop The Word to anyone and I believe it would make a great movie someday too.
I enjoyed Stop the World quite a lot. Sherry Mayes clearly did her research and it showed.
The novel had a fantastic start. As the reader you instantly sympathise with Jody’s predicament. The description about her useless legs and how wretched her life has become was harrowing, plus the added strained relationship with both her mother and her father. Her father not being able to deal with Jody’s recent disability was particularly powerful.
I’d say There was a little too much telling and backstory in the first third of the book, and it was also a tough read. I loved how Jody had already gone through serious character development due to her accident before the book even begins, and then goes more as she comes to terms with her new life.
The writing in general was very strong and overall story has to be described as depressing but also realistic and an important story to be told.
I’d certainly recommend Stop The Word to anyone and I believe it would make a great movie someday too.
December 2, 2015
Darn good writing!
This story is about loss and finding a reason to go on. The special feelings a young woman would cycle through after a tragic event are dealt out like playing cards, with the precision of a croupier. If you have ever struggled with heartache or the uncertainty of fate, you would relate deeply to Jody. Dr. Sledgehammer was my fave. She stole the show for me. Otto was simply amazing. We all need one of those special people in our lives.
The author managed to make me connect to it all the way through. I cried for Jody when she hurt and was jubilant for her triumphs.
This story was so accurate that it was difficult to read for me on a personal basis. So incredibly glad I read this book. I had a loss of my own years ago and this book really struck a chord. Darn good writing.
This story is about loss and finding a reason to go on. The special feelings a young woman would cycle through after a tragic event are dealt out like playing cards, with the precision of a croupier. If you have ever struggled with heartache or the uncertainty of fate, you would relate deeply to Jody. Dr. Sledgehammer was my fave. She stole the show for me. Otto was simply amazing. We all need one of those special people in our lives.
The author managed to make me connect to it all the way through. I cried for Jody when she hurt and was jubilant for her triumphs.
This story was so accurate that it was difficult to read for me on a personal basis. So incredibly glad I read this book. I had a loss of my own years ago and this book really struck a chord. Darn good writing.
June 18, 2018
When first reading this book I had no idea what to expect and no idea what the storyline was about. I also had no idea it was based on a true story. The book is a very easy and quirky read about a spoiled brat who took her entire life for granted and thought she was invincible, like almost every 17 year old on the planet. After a crippling car accident left her a paraplegic with no desire to live, Jody defies the odds and picks up the pieces of her life one by one despite losing her boyfriend, best friend, father and every other freedom in her world.
This story is real, raw and inspirational while not forgetting the dark times that a person in a situation such as this would surely feel.
This story is real, raw and inspirational while not forgetting the dark times that a person in a situation such as this would surely feel.
April 29, 2018
What an interesting and thought-provoking read. I liked the character of Jody from the outset, despite her perfections and successes in life she is written with depth and realism. The situation that arose after the car accident was shocking. The reactions of others from the crash and subsequent paralysis were realistically portrayed. You jump in straight at that point and literally, the book has you gripped. Everything has fallen apart and you're totally with Jody through this. It leads you to think, how would you react if that happened? Would people you know react like Jody's friends and family did? Would you if you were them? Totally addictive, I found this novel to be a complete page-turner and I read the novel engrossed from beginning to the end.
I loved the writer's style. Fresh and simple, which bonds you with the characters immediately. As Jody's perfect life falls away after the accident, you wonder what is truly important in life. Written in a light-hearted manner, with a great understanding of teenagers, I was left rooting for Jody. I won't give away the ending, but I was pleased the author was able to leave me satisfied and with hope. I'd love to read more from this talented author.
I loved the writer's style. Fresh and simple, which bonds you with the characters immediately. As Jody's perfect life falls away after the accident, you wonder what is truly important in life. Written in a light-hearted manner, with a great understanding of teenagers, I was left rooting for Jody. I won't give away the ending, but I was pleased the author was able to leave me satisfied and with hope. I'd love to read more from this talented author.
January 25, 2016
17 year old Jody appears to have everything. She is popular in school, a beauty queen, engaged to the most eligable boy in town and living in a close family unit with her parents. But after she is paralysed in a car crash, and the finger of blame is pointed at her, she loses everything.
This book then is her story from that fateful moment and how she rebuilds her life, not as it was before but into something new and better. On the way she must fight through every emotional and physical low and push herself further than she thought possible in both mind and body. A modern allegory, this shows that no matter what set backs life throws at you, there is always a light if you know where to look.
Jody as the narrator of her own tale is a great character, her thoughts even at the bleakest moments are always worth attention and Sherry Mayes does an excellent job of portraying her struggle. Jody comes to recognise her own flaws as well as those of the people around her and learns to cope with them. The result is an extremely positive and uplifting novel.
The other characters are also terrific - her parents are well drawn, with their own demons that she has been blind to for 17 years. Particularly strong and amusing is her physiotherapist who is extremely blunt and no-nonsense and never fails to provoke a smile in both Jody and the reader.
The story ticks along at a great pace but always taking the time to focus on how Jody's actions affect those around her (and vice versa) and her thoughts as she struggles with events.
This book is for anyone who wants to read something that is in turns inspiring, emotional, gritty, heartwarming and funny. Currently I'm thinking this is one of the best books I have ever read and if I could give 6 stars I would.
This book then is her story from that fateful moment and how she rebuilds her life, not as it was before but into something new and better. On the way she must fight through every emotional and physical low and push herself further than she thought possible in both mind and body. A modern allegory, this shows that no matter what set backs life throws at you, there is always a light if you know where to look.
Jody as the narrator of her own tale is a great character, her thoughts even at the bleakest moments are always worth attention and Sherry Mayes does an excellent job of portraying her struggle. Jody comes to recognise her own flaws as well as those of the people around her and learns to cope with them. The result is an extremely positive and uplifting novel.
The other characters are also terrific - her parents are well drawn, with their own demons that she has been blind to for 17 years. Particularly strong and amusing is her physiotherapist who is extremely blunt and no-nonsense and never fails to provoke a smile in both Jody and the reader.
The story ticks along at a great pace but always taking the time to focus on how Jody's actions affect those around her (and vice versa) and her thoughts as she struggles with events.
This book is for anyone who wants to read something that is in turns inspiring, emotional, gritty, heartwarming and funny. Currently I'm thinking this is one of the best books I have ever read and if I could give 6 stars I would.
April 25, 2018
'Stop the World' is a heartwarming tale of the hardships and triumphs that unexpected accidents bring out in life.
Jody Angel Taylor ticked all the boxes of the quintessential all-american girl. Beauty queen, dreams of the big house and 2.5 children, engaged to the school athlete/heart throb, and popular on social media. However, when her perfect, envy-worthy life crumbles at her feet because of a drink and fear induced car crash, life paralyzed from the waist down isn't quite as perfect.
The author writes this story in first person, which was the perfect choice because you really feel the strife, the depression, and finally the strong will of the main character to continue her life, regardless of her harrowing situation. This is a quick, emotional read that can be consumed in one sitting. Jody becomes your new friend with each turned page. You want her to prevail, no matter how somewhat snobby she started out to be. Not to mention, it is based on a true story, so the realism in the situation is very evident and cuts into your emotions deeply.
If your library contains only books that are inspirational, well-written, thought-provoking, and tissue-needing, then this needs to adorn your shelf as well.
Jody Angel Taylor ticked all the boxes of the quintessential all-american girl. Beauty queen, dreams of the big house and 2.5 children, engaged to the school athlete/heart throb, and popular on social media. However, when her perfect, envy-worthy life crumbles at her feet because of a drink and fear induced car crash, life paralyzed from the waist down isn't quite as perfect.
The author writes this story in first person, which was the perfect choice because you really feel the strife, the depression, and finally the strong will of the main character to continue her life, regardless of her harrowing situation. This is a quick, emotional read that can be consumed in one sitting. Jody becomes your new friend with each turned page. You want her to prevail, no matter how somewhat snobby she started out to be. Not to mention, it is based on a true story, so the realism in the situation is very evident and cuts into your emotions deeply.
If your library contains only books that are inspirational, well-written, thought-provoking, and tissue-needing, then this needs to adorn your shelf as well.
February 26, 2017
WOW, what did I just read? It was such a powerful and emotional book with a clear message - the message is for you all to find out.
To me, the book had a slow start but quickly picked up and I ended up whizzing right through it!
At first, Jody really did annoy me but as the book went on her character grew on me and I started to really cheer her on. There were plenty of other characters named in this book but the one I loved from the start was Otto. He is everything a woman wants in her man. #teamotto
Another character I felt played an important part of Jody's life was Annie. She comes across as this bitchy so and so but you quickly learn to love her
We learn a lot from Jody and her experiences from the car crash to how her life progresses after, what she's lost and how she moves on.
This was my first book by Sherry and will not be the last.
My thanks go to Helen over at #TBConFB and Sherry for providing me with a copy of this book which I have chosen to voluntarily review.
To me, the book had a slow start but quickly picked up and I ended up whizzing right through it!
At first, Jody really did annoy me but as the book went on her character grew on me and I started to really cheer her on. There were plenty of other characters named in this book but the one I loved from the start was Otto. He is everything a woman wants in her man. #teamotto
Another character I felt played an important part of Jody's life was Annie. She comes across as this bitchy so and so but you quickly learn to love her
We learn a lot from Jody and her experiences from the car crash to how her life progresses after, what she's lost and how she moves on.
This was my first book by Sherry and will not be the last.
My thanks go to Helen over at #TBConFB and Sherry for providing me with a copy of this book which I have chosen to voluntarily review.
February 15, 2017
Stop the world by Sherry Mayes is a ya read.
Jody Angel Taylor believes her life is all mapped out: Glamorous, clever and popular, and due to marry her handsome boyfriend, she has it all. Until one night she has a devastating car crash, ending up paralyzed — and her perfect world collapses.
This was a really good read with good characters. Little slow to start with. I liked jodi. 4*. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from tbc on fb.
Jody Angel Taylor believes her life is all mapped out: Glamorous, clever and popular, and due to marry her handsome boyfriend, she has it all. Until one night she has a devastating car crash, ending up paralyzed — and her perfect world collapses.
This was a really good read with good characters. Little slow to start with. I liked jodi. 4*. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from tbc on fb.
July 2, 2018
I got a lot more than I initially expected from this book. What I expected to be an easy read for my holiday, celebrating the triumphant recovery of the beauty queen and town sweetheart following a devastating accident actually went a lot deeper than I had anticipated. Jody's journey back to life after being paralysed in a car accident is by no means easy, and this book explores this in great detail. Sherry Mayes handling of this subject is sensitive, keeping the harsh reality and emotional rollercoaster that Jody experiences, but at the same time including moments of happiness and laughter.
Jody is the popular girl who everyone wants to be friends with - beautiful, clever, privileged, everything the school Queen Bee needs, but when everything she valued is stripped away from her, she discovers who her true friends are. As she struggles to rebuild her life, you realise that none of them really knew her at all, and that she didn't even really know herself.
It was only after I finished this book, actually a couple of days after, that I had the eureka moment when the title suddenly made sense. Only by stopping her world does Jody discover who she really is and what she wants from life.
Jody is the popular girl who everyone wants to be friends with - beautiful, clever, privileged, everything the school Queen Bee needs, but when everything she valued is stripped away from her, she discovers who her true friends are. As she struggles to rebuild her life, you realise that none of them really knew her at all, and that she didn't even really know herself.
It was only after I finished this book, actually a couple of days after, that I had the eureka moment when the title suddenly made sense. Only by stopping her world does Jody discover who she really is and what she wants from life.
May 25, 2018
This book was an unexpected pleasure. I enjoyed this novel in one sitting, having been sucked into the story from the very first page.
The story is told from 18-year-old Jody’s perspective. She’s survived a devastating car crash, which has left her paralyzed from the waist down. Jody’s life after the accident is a harsh new reality, filled will immense challenges and personal struggles. Watching her overcome these obstacles and re-discover herself was a great ride.
Jody’s voice was genuine throughout the novel. Her response and reaction to her situation felt very real. I couldn’t help but root for her on her journey. There’s a nice romance, too, which I loved. I very much wanted Jody to have her happily-ever-after.
Although the book is entertaining, with plenty of funny moments and bits of comic relief, Stop the World is the kind of book that sticks with you after you’ve read it. It makes you think. There is an underlying message of hope and perseverance.
I recommend this book to fans of YA or to anyone that likes a feel-good story. I look forward to reading more from this author.
The story is told from 18-year-old Jody’s perspective. She’s survived a devastating car crash, which has left her paralyzed from the waist down. Jody’s life after the accident is a harsh new reality, filled will immense challenges and personal struggles. Watching her overcome these obstacles and re-discover herself was a great ride.
Jody’s voice was genuine throughout the novel. Her response and reaction to her situation felt very real. I couldn’t help but root for her on her journey. There’s a nice romance, too, which I loved. I very much wanted Jody to have her happily-ever-after.
Although the book is entertaining, with plenty of funny moments and bits of comic relief, Stop the World is the kind of book that sticks with you after you’ve read it. It makes you think. There is an underlying message of hope and perseverance.
I recommend this book to fans of YA or to anyone that likes a feel-good story. I look forward to reading more from this author.
July 7, 2018
This book is about a beautiful popular teenage girl, Jody, who has her world turned upside down after a car crash and discovers she is paralysed. It was not only the journey of Jody and how she adapted but also of the people who love her. I found so many of the characters to grow in this novel.
Stop The World is a very thought-provoking read. However I have to confess I found the first chapter particularly hard to read as we are introduced to Jody at her lowest point. Jody hits rock bottom and discovers that perfection is not real and despite previously building her life based on this she ultimately has to rediscover herself.
The story is written with such depth and realism, I began the book disliking Jody but as the story progressed I was routing for her. The writing was simple and flowed so that it was easy to understand Jody's struggles and triumphs and I felt every rollercoaster emotion.
A great read, full of hope and the overall message to not sweat the small stuff.
Stop The World is a very thought-provoking read. However I have to confess I found the first chapter particularly hard to read as we are introduced to Jody at her lowest point. Jody hits rock bottom and discovers that perfection is not real and despite previously building her life based on this she ultimately has to rediscover herself.
The story is written with such depth and realism, I began the book disliking Jody but as the story progressed I was routing for her. The writing was simple and flowed so that it was easy to understand Jody's struggles and triumphs and I felt every rollercoaster emotion.
A great read, full of hope and the overall message to not sweat the small stuff.
July 4, 2018
I didn’t know what to expect going into this book. It was a well written story based off of a true story. Jody seems to think her life is going great. She’s a beauty queen in pageants and shows, her dad spoils and adores her, her mom adores her, and she has a boyfriend who worships the ground she walks on. Until it all comes crashing down after her accident. Then she has to wake up and realize that not everything is so peachy and life happens. Her dad does the unthinkable and her boyfriend betrays her. After being dealt a roof hand, Jody ends up learning how to live and take back her life at the end which makes for a happy ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2018
17 year old Jody has it all. Success, looks, popularity. But her life is turned upside down when she is told she may never walk again as the result of a car crash.
You don't realize how much these things effect others and the people around them unless you have been in the situation. Sherry has clearly done her research. This book is a true eye opener. Jody struggles on a daily basis after the crash. She loses friends, family, her independence and I really felt for her. This is the story of how her life crumbles around her and how she attempts to rebuild it. It's a real rollercoaster of emotions!
You don't realize how much these things effect others and the people around them unless you have been in the situation. Sherry has clearly done her research. This book is a true eye opener. Jody struggles on a daily basis after the crash. She loses friends, family, her independence and I really felt for her. This is the story of how her life crumbles around her and how she attempts to rebuild it. It's a real rollercoaster of emotions!
June 28, 2018
Sherry Mayes is insightful and articulate with her use of words. She has written from her heart and didn't taint her story in order to be popular - a unique talent.
I enjoy a book that is quirky, and with narrative that is eloquent, crisp and meaningful.
I felt connected to the main protagonist, enjoying her journey, and experiencing all manner of emotions that welled up from within, along the way.
I enjoy a book that is quirky, and with narrative that is eloquent, crisp and meaningful.
I felt connected to the main protagonist, enjoying her journey, and experiencing all manner of emotions that welled up from within, along the way.
June 19, 2018
What a fantastic pick me up story! Do you need motivation? Do you feel down or at the end of the road and not sure you can keep going?
Here is the story of Jody who in her young age has everything, loving parents who are extremely proud of her, she is popular and beautiful, smart and already at her age 19 found love of her life. Everything is just the way it's meant to be, until the moment that will cost her all of it.
When she feels she will never be happy again, when all parts of her life are slowly falling apart and there is no hope, with a little support she find her way out of despair, depression and starts fighting for new life, for her future whatever it may be.
I loved Jody and my heart was breaking for her through out the whole book, I was rooting for her and wish her all the best. The fact that this book was based on the real story makes it even more powerful. Author really knows how to express all possible feelings with words and pulls you right in with easy flowing writing style.
I would absolutely recommend this book to everyone.
Here is the story of Jody who in her young age has everything, loving parents who are extremely proud of her, she is popular and beautiful, smart and already at her age 19 found love of her life. Everything is just the way it's meant to be, until the moment that will cost her all of it.
When she feels she will never be happy again, when all parts of her life are slowly falling apart and there is no hope, with a little support she find her way out of despair, depression and starts fighting for new life, for her future whatever it may be.
I loved Jody and my heart was breaking for her through out the whole book, I was rooting for her and wish her all the best. The fact that this book was based on the real story makes it even more powerful. Author really knows how to express all possible feelings with words and pulls you right in with easy flowing writing style.
I would absolutely recommend this book to everyone.
July 6, 2018
This compelling novel follows Jody’s journey from being on top of the word to her lowest low and back again. The book was well researched and it kept me on the edge throughout the entire book. I really enjoyed the book and look forward to read more of Sherry Mayes’ books in the future.
June 24, 2018
A wonderful, inspirational book based on a true story of a young teenager, Jody Taylor, finding her life completely changed after a car accident. The story takes you through Jody’s journey, her ups and downs, and her struggle to get some kind of a normal life back.
Jody’s story is a true inspiration and shows you that whatever life throws at you, if you take charge and never give up then your own miracles can happen.
Jody’s story is a true inspiration and shows you that whatever life throws at you, if you take charge and never give up then your own miracles can happen.
June 11, 2018
What happens when a young beautiful popular teen thinks she has it all... some get to live their dream life but others crash and burn. Mayes tells the story of Jody who had it all at the age of 17 and in the blink of an eye loses it. This story is about fighting for your life, believing in your self and continuing to dream and try to achieve your goals. It will make you laugh and it will sadden you but most of all it will bring you inspiration to never give up!
March 1, 2016
I have to admit, I wasn't too sure if this book was going to hook me, but I was definitely wrong!
17 year old Jody seemed to have the everything going for her, she is a beauty queen with an amazing boyfriend and a great group of friends (or so she believes)... until one day her whole life crumples around her when she is involved in a crash after meeting her friend and is paralyzed. Whilst she is in hospital recovering, she discovers all is not well with her wonderful boyfriend, and finds out via social media that he is seeing her best friend, leaving poor Jody feeling truly rejected and betrayed. The story is fantastically written, as we see this young girl suddenly wake up and realise what is truly important in life whilst coming to terms with her paralysis. As well as dealing with this, she also has to come to terms with the fact that her dad has walked out on her and her mom when they needed him the most, for a work colleague leaving them both heartbroken.
Whilst being confined to her room she starts talking to a man called Otto who she meets on a medical chat website and instantly they hit it off, until Otto discovers Jody hasn't been completely honest with him about her condition, which leaves poor Jody feeling very alone again.
Luckily as the story nears the end we get the happy endings we were rooting for all along!
It is a tragic, yet truly beautiful story. The characters are portrayed brilliantly enabling you to picture them clearly. You find yourself warming to Jody's character with every page you read as you follow her on her journey to rediscovering herself.
I would definitely recommend this book!
I was very kindly given a copy of this book by the author for my honest opinion.
17 year old Jody seemed to have the everything going for her, she is a beauty queen with an amazing boyfriend and a great group of friends (or so she believes)... until one day her whole life crumples around her when she is involved in a crash after meeting her friend and is paralyzed. Whilst she is in hospital recovering, she discovers all is not well with her wonderful boyfriend, and finds out via social media that he is seeing her best friend, leaving poor Jody feeling truly rejected and betrayed. The story is fantastically written, as we see this young girl suddenly wake up and realise what is truly important in life whilst coming to terms with her paralysis. As well as dealing with this, she also has to come to terms with the fact that her dad has walked out on her and her mom when they needed him the most, for a work colleague leaving them both heartbroken.
Whilst being confined to her room she starts talking to a man called Otto who she meets on a medical chat website and instantly they hit it off, until Otto discovers Jody hasn't been completely honest with him about her condition, which leaves poor Jody feeling very alone again.
Luckily as the story nears the end we get the happy endings we were rooting for all along!
It is a tragic, yet truly beautiful story. The characters are portrayed brilliantly enabling you to picture them clearly. You find yourself warming to Jody's character with every page you read as you follow her on her journey to rediscovering herself.
I would definitely recommend this book!
I was very kindly given a copy of this book by the author for my honest opinion.
February 27, 2017
I was lucky enough to be part of a group that was offered a handful of copies in Ebook and Physical form. As you can imagine I was over the moon when I was told I'd be sent one of three physical copies. Not long after it arrived and I was ecstatic when I found it was signed! As you know I LOVE signed books. A bit thanks to TBC for allowing me to get a copy.
The premise of this book looked interesting and at 210 pages it was a short read. As you can probably see it's not my usual kind of read. It's not fantasy or sci-fi and based on a true story. I was a little apprehensive to be honest, but I looked forward to trying something new.
The first handful of pages were kind of hard to follow. Imagine a comical scene in a teen tv show where a teenager is speaking super fast and there's someone trying to keep up. Kind of like that. Afterwards the flow slowed down and became normal pace.
I actually used this book as my 'travel book' whilst volunteering at a local event, so it took me a little longer than it would have done if I had just sat and read it.
I spent ages thinking about this book. I didn't know how to feel for so long. This book sent me on a bit of an emotional rollercoaster. I didn't know if I was supposed to love or hate Jody. I settled on her simply becoming likeable. Towards the end of the book Jody became real and I felt strongly about her being likeable.
This book is written extremely well! I cannot wait to try more works by Sherry Mayes.
I recommend if you want to try something new. Sherry is entirely worth trying if you've not read her works before.
4 out 5 stars.
The premise of this book looked interesting and at 210 pages it was a short read. As you can probably see it's not my usual kind of read. It's not fantasy or sci-fi and based on a true story. I was a little apprehensive to be honest, but I looked forward to trying something new.
The first handful of pages were kind of hard to follow. Imagine a comical scene in a teen tv show where a teenager is speaking super fast and there's someone trying to keep up. Kind of like that. Afterwards the flow slowed down and became normal pace.
I actually used this book as my 'travel book' whilst volunteering at a local event, so it took me a little longer than it would have done if I had just sat and read it.
I spent ages thinking about this book. I didn't know how to feel for so long. This book sent me on a bit of an emotional rollercoaster. I didn't know if I was supposed to love or hate Jody. I settled on her simply becoming likeable. Towards the end of the book Jody became real and I felt strongly about her being likeable.
This book is written extremely well! I cannot wait to try more works by Sherry Mayes.
I recommend if you want to try something new. Sherry is entirely worth trying if you've not read her works before.
4 out 5 stars.
January 10, 2016
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Jody Angel Taylor, has her whole life mapped out for her, she’s the beauty queen of the town, clever, popular and engaged her amazing boyfriend. Until one night when she is involved in a horrible car accident which leaves her paralysed. After that everything seems to collapse, from being blamed for her own accident to losing both her best friend and her boyfriend, her father having an affair and her mum dealing with depression. Jody is determined and strong to get back on her feet but she fears that she will lose more. Jody embarks to transform her life and make something positive after all of the hardships she’s been through.
I really enjoyed this story as it was honest and real. I loved reading how a terrible situation helps this girl come of age and learn to embrace herself and her flaws. The start was a bit slow but once I kept reading I couldn’t stop. Sherry Mayes has written this beautifully, the characters are easily understood and pictured and the storyline was tragic yet fantastic at the same time. Jody’s character is the ultimate poster girl for resilience and hope, she didn’t give up even though at many times she wanted to and reminds us of the strength that we all have inside of us. Even though Jody was very vain in the beginning, she developed well into the book and I grew to love her and what she stood for.
Even though it is an emotional and hard topic, the author approached it very well. I cried throughout this book for both happy and sad reasons but it was defiantly a book I loved.
Jody Angel Taylor, has her whole life mapped out for her, she’s the beauty queen of the town, clever, popular and engaged her amazing boyfriend. Until one night when she is involved in a horrible car accident which leaves her paralysed. After that everything seems to collapse, from being blamed for her own accident to losing both her best friend and her boyfriend, her father having an affair and her mum dealing with depression. Jody is determined and strong to get back on her feet but she fears that she will lose more. Jody embarks to transform her life and make something positive after all of the hardships she’s been through.
I really enjoyed this story as it was honest and real. I loved reading how a terrible situation helps this girl come of age and learn to embrace herself and her flaws. The start was a bit slow but once I kept reading I couldn’t stop. Sherry Mayes has written this beautifully, the characters are easily understood and pictured and the storyline was tragic yet fantastic at the same time. Jody’s character is the ultimate poster girl for resilience and hope, she didn’t give up even though at many times she wanted to and reminds us of the strength that we all have inside of us. Even though Jody was very vain in the beginning, she developed well into the book and I grew to love her and what she stood for.
Even though it is an emotional and hard topic, the author approached it very well. I cried throughout this book for both happy and sad reasons but it was defiantly a book I loved.
January 2, 2017
Jody Angel Taylor is eighteen and lives in a small American town with her parents. She’s bright, very pretty and the height of her ambition is to marry early and have a family, as her mother did. Her mom is keen that she enter (and win) pageants and beauty contests, which she does with huge success. Then her world is rocked to the foundations when her car is forced off the road by a truck, she’s critically injured and told she’ll never walk again.
The author really gets into the head of a teenager here, and I believe it was based on a true story. Jody has to accept that her friends valued her as the successful and pretty beauty queen she was, and without that, they drop her. We are all, at least in part, the product of our own imagination and ego, and when that is taken away from us, we have the difficult, and seemingly hopeless, task of building ourselves back up into people we can be proud to be. After her accident, Jody sees other parts of what was her ‘perfect life’ begin to fall apart at the seams. She finds one or two people who enable her to see her potential, even with legs that don’t work. This is both entertaining and thought-provoking and a great story.
The author really gets into the head of a teenager here, and I believe it was based on a true story. Jody has to accept that her friends valued her as the successful and pretty beauty queen she was, and without that, they drop her. We are all, at least in part, the product of our own imagination and ego, and when that is taken away from us, we have the difficult, and seemingly hopeless, task of building ourselves back up into people we can be proud to be. After her accident, Jody sees other parts of what was her ‘perfect life’ begin to fall apart at the seams. She finds one or two people who enable her to see her potential, even with legs that don’t work. This is both entertaining and thought-provoking and a great story.
February 26, 2017
"Jody Angel Taylor believes her life is all mapped out: Glamorous, clever and popular, and due to marry her handsome boyfriend, she has it all. Until one night she has a devastating car crash, ending up paralyzed — and her perfect world collapses" - this is the synopsis on the back of the book.
I have to declare that this is my first YA book and also that my father suffered a spinal injury so I read this book from a very personal point of view.
It would be easy to dislike Jody because she has it all. A lovely boyfriend and eventually fiancé, success as a beauty queen and a happy family life. A car accident that she is blamed for leads to her losing the use of her legs.
Jody's struggle - both physical and mental - is portrayed well and I grew to like and respect her. Sherry writes well about the day to day challenges of life with a disability and the ripple effect on the rest of the family.
Overall I enjoyed it and felt that Sherry Mayes has captured the voice and thoughts of a young girl in a realistic way.
I have to declare that this is my first YA book and also that my father suffered a spinal injury so I read this book from a very personal point of view.
It would be easy to dislike Jody because she has it all. A lovely boyfriend and eventually fiancé, success as a beauty queen and a happy family life. A car accident that she is blamed for leads to her losing the use of her legs.
Jody's struggle - both physical and mental - is portrayed well and I grew to like and respect her. Sherry writes well about the day to day challenges of life with a disability and the ripple effect on the rest of the family.
Overall I enjoyed it and felt that Sherry Mayes has captured the voice and thoughts of a young girl in a realistic way.
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