Pearl Weaver’s Epic Apology

by Rachel Keener

Pearl Weaver is obsessed with stories. When loss leaves her reeling, Pearl seeks peace from the writing lessons of her father, a brilliant Southern writer. If you don't like something, he taught, cross it out and choose a better plot. Although his lesson was intended for ink and paper, Pearl uses it to choose a new life for herself, straight from the pages of classic literature. Soon she discovers that what's perfectly poised within a masterpiece, is disastrous in the real world. Pearl flees to the ends of the earth, only to discover that some stories are impossible to escape. Facing terrifying consequences, Pearl must choose her next plot. Will she recreate herself once again? Or will she learn that freedom doesn't have to be fictional?

430 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 22, 2017

About the author

Years ago, during an intense law class I gave up trying to make sense of civil procedure. Instead, I opened a blank page on my laptop and started writing about a girl named Mercy. By the time I graduated, that blank page had become my first novel.

Today, my law license is inactive, but my writing is not. I'm the author of The Killing Tree, The Memory Thief, and my new novel, Pearl Weaver's Epic Apology. I aspire to create books filled with characters that endure. It is my great wish that you will treasure your time with these characters as much as I have.

I love chatting with readers. If your book club would like to set up an author discussion, please visit my website at www.rachelkeener.com for more information.

Reviews

[Blue North · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's beautiful writing and very poetic. At times, "Pearl Weaver's Epic Apology" is too poetic. I did feel very close to Anna Pearl after her father's death. I loved Katie's reading of Jane Eyre. It's a good book.

[Abigail Hawthorne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing!
I'll admit, this powerful story wasn't what I expected when I picked up this novel. But, despite my doubts, I found the story hard to put down. Pearl was an extremely well-developed character and one that I quickly connected with. If you like young-adult fiction, I would definitely recommend this book! This is what I call a "raw" story (my favorite type of story), because it doesn't attempt to hide the ugly side of emotions and stories and life. Instead, it makes a song from the misery (from p. 230).

[Harisa- EsquiredToRead]

I’m leaving this unrated because this is another book that isn’t what I thought it was and i think that’s on me personally. I kept expecting a time jump and it never happened. Being in Pearls head was rough at times and she came off as unlikable for way too long. Then the end kinda felt all over the place so ultimately this wasn’t for me BUT I love Rachel Keener’s writing and I’ll keep her on my radar

[Monica Ramsey · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not a bad read. Definitely took some turns I wasn't expecting. Would recommend for people who enjoy young adult novels.

[Júlía Ósk Hafþórsdóttir · Rating 3 out of 5]

Did not like it very much. Thought it be rather flat and nothing interesting happening. The character was not very memoraible and just a bit annoying. I liked the ending though somewhat.

[Jessie Weaver · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was so thrilled when Rachel Keener saw my love for her book The Memory Thief and e-mailed me about it years ago. It’s so fun to converse with an author! So I was pleased as punch to hear from her again this year, asking if I would read and review her new, self-published book, Pearl Weaver’s Epic Apology.

Pearl only remembers being with her father in their museum-like home, filled with the relics of their ancestors. She remembers her first literary obsession, Cassandra from the myths. And when she quickly loses all she’s known, Pearl takes us for a crazy joyride of emotions; the preteen brain leading us through more literary trails, assumed identities, and wild journeys.

I don’t know if Pearl’s tale is 100% believable, but it sure is interesting. Keener gracefully weaves in the Southern enchantment, faith, and Pearl’s family history. It’s a hefty book, but a lovely story. (Although it takes until the last page to “get” the title!)

Rachel provided me with the book to facilitate my review; I did not receive any other compensation and provide my truthful review here!

[Miki]

There were times early in this book that I thought - eh! But, actually, I really liked it! How very hard for some kids to fit the mold that everyone thinks they should!