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An Authentic Experience
Fifteen-year-old Silver Abelli’s life has been as tumultuous as the punk rock she was raised on. Her divorced parents just don’t get along, even though they’re both musicians who stubbornly spurn the mainstream but secretly crave the limelight. Silver has always lived with her mom, Nicola, but when Nicola is diagnosed with a brain tumor, she must go to live with her obnoxious, hard-partying father, Renz. Because her family is so traumatized by Nicola’s condition, Silver doesn’t know where to turn when she suffers her own trauma. Will the truth set her free, or will it only make a bad situation worse? Find out in this story of family, friends, and young love.
CW: Rough language, one scene of violence
CW: Rough language, one scene of violence
- GenresYoung Adult
252 pages, Paperback
Published February 13, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
May 11, 2018
Dysfunctional. It seems like an accurate description for Silver's family, yet it doesn't. They don't function within the scope of normalcy that define families around her but how, exactly, is "normal" defined when it's describing family units? The discord and mindset of the adults in her family formed the foundation of her normal and solidified her own desire for more beyond what she knew.
I suppose almost all (if not all) teens experience the desires and longings that Silver did. Wanting a taste of what others have while learning that what one has is sometimes coveted by others as well. There also comes a time and place of accepting that what one has is just as beautiful as what others have, that the muddied surface of one's life only hides all that one really needs: love, caring, affection, and support.
It was interesting and difficult to read this story. Interesting because I wasn't like Silver at fifteen. Difficult because I remember wanting more than my family offered at the time. But, like Silver, I learned to see through my family's nuances to the gold mine underneath and I have to say they did a great job raising me. I feel Silver's parents did the same with her, despite their childish behavior and oft displayed selfishness.
I do like that Ms. Wittmann explored Silver's relationship with Jake. Standing just yards away from the edge of adulthood, Silver is comfortable enough in and with herself to pursue Jake and test the limits of her desire for him. And though it does seem like horrible timing that Silver and Jake begin dating, in a way it was also perfect timing. Life was already in an upheaval and Jake became a constant, much like her cousin and best friend Natalie was.
When Ms. Wittmann asked if would read and review Authentic, I was excited. I rarely read young adult; it's not a genre I prefer. I can't tell you how much my heart sank when I read page one. The angst that seems typical of teens bled through my ereader and I wasn't sure I'd finish. The amount of angst was nearly identical to what I find in new adult romances; I wasn't really in the mood for it. It took several tries to make it past the first few chapters, and even after I managed that I still had to take breaks reading this story.
It isn't horribly written. It isn't over the top. It was a lot, for me. Overwhelming but, I realized, beautifully done when I buckled down and read it from back to front in one sitting.
As a caution, parents may want to pre-read this story before letting pre-teen readers indulge, though teens may find it entertaining, amusing, and interesting to continue on their own. Overall, it is a good story, well-written with a character who is strong and sure. The supporting characters add depth and insight, mellowing that teenage angst I was ill-prepared to handle at the beginning.
Authentic is a thought-provoking journey of self-discovery; of understanding that authentic isn't a state of being or mindset that can be imitated; of realizing that authentic is birthed from ownership of who and what one is, where one comes from, of the people in one's life that have helped shape them.
Received from publisher for an honest review
I suppose almost all (if not all) teens experience the desires and longings that Silver did. Wanting a taste of what others have while learning that what one has is sometimes coveted by others as well. There also comes a time and place of accepting that what one has is just as beautiful as what others have, that the muddied surface of one's life only hides all that one really needs: love, caring, affection, and support.
It was interesting and difficult to read this story. Interesting because I wasn't like Silver at fifteen. Difficult because I remember wanting more than my family offered at the time. But, like Silver, I learned to see through my family's nuances to the gold mine underneath and I have to say they did a great job raising me. I feel Silver's parents did the same with her, despite their childish behavior and oft displayed selfishness.
I do like that Ms. Wittmann explored Silver's relationship with Jake. Standing just yards away from the edge of adulthood, Silver is comfortable enough in and with herself to pursue Jake and test the limits of her desire for him. And though it does seem like horrible timing that Silver and Jake begin dating, in a way it was also perfect timing. Life was already in an upheaval and Jake became a constant, much like her cousin and best friend Natalie was.
When Ms. Wittmann asked if would read and review Authentic, I was excited. I rarely read young adult; it's not a genre I prefer. I can't tell you how much my heart sank when I read page one. The angst that seems typical of teens bled through my ereader and I wasn't sure I'd finish. The amount of angst was nearly identical to what I find in new adult romances; I wasn't really in the mood for it. It took several tries to make it past the first few chapters, and even after I managed that I still had to take breaks reading this story.
It isn't horribly written. It isn't over the top. It was a lot, for me. Overwhelming but, I realized, beautifully done when I buckled down and read it from back to front in one sitting.
As a caution, parents may want to pre-read this story before letting pre-teen readers indulge, though teens may find it entertaining, amusing, and interesting to continue on their own. Overall, it is a good story, well-written with a character who is strong and sure. The supporting characters add depth and insight, mellowing that teenage angst I was ill-prepared to handle at the beginning.
Authentic is a thought-provoking journey of self-discovery; of understanding that authentic isn't a state of being or mindset that can be imitated; of realizing that authentic is birthed from ownership of who and what one is, where one comes from, of the people in one's life that have helped shape them.
Received from publisher for an honest review
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December 17, 2018I received a copy of this from the author in exchange for my honest review. I dnf this. It just wasn’t for me. In the first chapter, there was already so much sadness and drama and the first boy she meets, she wants to be “naked” with him anywhere?? This just isn’t for me, but I feel some will enjoy it.
May 28, 2018
Kelly Wittmann's "An Authentic Experience" is a lovely peek at the GenX-GenZ generational conflict through parenting. Silver is a 15-year-old GenZer whose Riot Grrrl mom is recovering from brain cancer and punk rock father never learned to be a dad. She finds solace in her maternal grandparents, cousin-best friend, as well as her first boyfriend.
I fell in love with the book because of Silver's constant eye-rolling over her parents' GenX references. I busted out laughing when her father calls her Frances Bean, because well, Silver is a bit of a punk rock-riot grrrl princess as her parents were (her father remains) famous in those circles. Her parents admonish her generation for caring too much about what people think and Silver constantly recalls her mother's famous bleeding out on stage moment or stunt that is legendary in the family.
As with many great young adult novels, Silver's summer break is what frames this novel. She is sent to live with her father across town in Milwaukee while her mother recovers from surgery. There she learns more about her father and his inability to move on from his punk rock days. At the same time she discovers the sexist manner in which her father's career is held up as legendary while her mother's influence has faded to a whisper. In the forefront is Silver's first big romance and how she goes from idealizing her boyfriend to a rude awakening when he fails to support her in Silver's moment of need. The honest depiction of a teen romance was beautiful. The awkwardness of connecting to the fumbles of expressing it. Wittmann was genius in building up Silver's boyfriend and then when he disappoints her, depicting Silver's reliance on the wisdom her mom instilled in a manner only a Riot Grrrl (inspired) mom could.
CW for family dysfunction and physical violence. Wittmann stays well within the approved plot lines for young women to grow up by having Silver be assaulted, but not raped. The travails that Silver endures with her parents and typical boyfriend stuff is enough of a hero's journey without having to include an assault. This is the one disappointing part of the novel, but it does serve as a wake up call to Silver's father to get his paternal act in order. But I look forward to the day when we do not need physical assault or threat of rape for young women's transformation. This is more a critique of the overall genre than this book.
All that said, I do recommend this book for teens and parents alike. I've already assigned it to my 14yo for her summer reading. Silver's insight into GenZ thinking was enlightening to this GenX mom. Maybe my daughter will gain a bit more insight into her GenX mom through this book. Even if I'm the farthest thing from Courtney Love.
Disclaimer: Thanks to Kelly Wittmann for reaching out to offer me a review copy of her novel in exchange for an honest review.
I fell in love with the book because of Silver's constant eye-rolling over her parents' GenX references. I busted out laughing when her father calls her Frances Bean, because well, Silver is a bit of a punk rock-riot grrrl princess as her parents were (her father remains) famous in those circles. Her parents admonish her generation for caring too much about what people think and Silver constantly recalls her mother's famous bleeding out on stage moment or stunt that is legendary in the family.
As with many great young adult novels, Silver's summer break is what frames this novel. She is sent to live with her father across town in Milwaukee while her mother recovers from surgery. There she learns more about her father and his inability to move on from his punk rock days. At the same time she discovers the sexist manner in which her father's career is held up as legendary while her mother's influence has faded to a whisper. In the forefront is Silver's first big romance and how she goes from idealizing her boyfriend to a rude awakening when he fails to support her in Silver's moment of need. The honest depiction of a teen romance was beautiful. The awkwardness of connecting to the fumbles of expressing it. Wittmann was genius in building up Silver's boyfriend and then when he disappoints her, depicting Silver's reliance on the wisdom her mom instilled in a manner only a Riot Grrrl (inspired) mom could.
CW for family dysfunction and physical violence. Wittmann stays well within the approved plot lines for young women to grow up by having Silver be assaulted, but not raped. The travails that Silver endures with her parents and typical boyfriend stuff is enough of a hero's journey without having to include an assault. This is the one disappointing part of the novel, but it does serve as a wake up call to Silver's father to get his paternal act in order. But I look forward to the day when we do not need physical assault or threat of rape for young women's transformation. This is more a critique of the overall genre than this book.
All that said, I do recommend this book for teens and parents alike. I've already assigned it to my 14yo for her summer reading. Silver's insight into GenZ thinking was enlightening to this GenX mom. Maybe my daughter will gain a bit more insight into her GenX mom through this book. Even if I'm the farthest thing from Courtney Love.
Disclaimer: Thanks to Kelly Wittmann for reaching out to offer me a review copy of her novel in exchange for an honest review.
October 26, 2018
An Authentic Experience was definitely a unique read. Two parts punk rock, one part emotion, and one part teen angst. I couldn’t put it down!
I loved how it delved into the repercussions of divorce, and living in a dysfunctional family. I also loved how it showed that having a family member with a debilitating condition affects more than just that family member. This was a pretty deep story that touched on many issues.
Wittmann did a great job of highlighting issues with having an immature parent. She also really brought forward the importance of family, forgiveness, and love. This definitely could have been made in to a dramatic Lifetime movie.
I felt like the characters could have used a little more depth, though I did get attached to Silver still. Beyond that, and the fact that I abhorred Silver’s father up until the ending, I found this one to be very amusing. It had humor, drama, emotion, and a few heart pounding moments. It had depth and seemed to be written and researched well. It was definitely worth a read!
Thank you to the author for providing me with this free e-copy in exchange for my honest review.
I loved how it delved into the repercussions of divorce, and living in a dysfunctional family. I also loved how it showed that having a family member with a debilitating condition affects more than just that family member. This was a pretty deep story that touched on many issues.
Wittmann did a great job of highlighting issues with having an immature parent. She also really brought forward the importance of family, forgiveness, and love. This definitely could have been made in to a dramatic Lifetime movie.
I felt like the characters could have used a little more depth, though I did get attached to Silver still. Beyond that, and the fact that I abhorred Silver’s father up until the ending, I found this one to be very amusing. It had humor, drama, emotion, and a few heart pounding moments. It had depth and seemed to be written and researched well. It was definitely worth a read!
Thank you to the author for providing me with this free e-copy in exchange for my honest review.
February 24, 2019
* Received this copy from the Author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you very much! This doesn’t affect the review in any way. My opinions are, as always, my own.*
3.5stars
This is a difficult one to review... It's quite a striking book, but it was also not the easiest for me to get into? A big part of this book is realted to music, and to be honest my knowledge in that department is not the biggest... I probably did miss some music references here, so I can't really say much about that side of the story, although I must say I did enjoy it! I though it quite strong and thought-provoking and for sure emotinal so, it's a bit of a mix for me this time.
This book deals with health problems like cancer, abuse / physical violence (only one scene). Plus keep an open mind for cursing. As for the story... Silver, is a 15 yo with a VERY dysfunctional family. And when I say VERY dysfunctional is like, the most dysfunctional I've ever read of and yet I adored it? I know it sounds weird, but her family just seemed so realistic, so... humane? And after seeing both their bad and good sides, I just can't help but adore her family and how emotional it made me. They are for sure unconventional but they also have their fair share of normal that felt really captivating for some reason. I adore Silver's grandparents and I loved how strong her mother was! She is such an inspiration! Also, I loved how big and connected her family was (in a certain way).
As for Silver, I could totally see the 15 yo part showing, which sometimes can annoy me a bit, but overall she was a great character. I loved to see her figuring out her life, and how to deal with everything that was happening around her. She is for sure a strong girl and I love how decisive of a person she turned out to be. It was quite hard reading about everything going on with both her and her family, but it was also really rewarding.
There's for sure romance in this book, quite a normal teenage romance, that might at times feel slightly old-school too. I guess it's the effect of reading about a small-town romance, it always gives me this type of old-style vibe? But it was still quite modern. It's a bit of a mix really. But it was for sure enjoyable and surprising at times. There's a bit of LGBT in here too, which I found to be a nice addition.
But there were also some parts that made me slightly uncomfortable, and I'm not talking about the violence part or anything like that. Those made me uncomfortable for obvious reasons and were done well and in a striking and unexpected way. But I'm talking about some normal scenes, that I just didn't enjoy the way they were portrayed... And that's why I kind of feel a bit mixed up on how to rate this book. On one side I feel that it was powerful and emotional and quite enjoyable, but on the other, there are some parts that I didn't necessarily like.
Overall it's an interesting and a quite unique story, with a lot of important messages, with characters that I learned to love and that I loved reading about. It totally gripped me and made me emotional. I would for sure recommend it.
3.5stars
This is a difficult one to review... It's quite a striking book, but it was also not the easiest for me to get into? A big part of this book is realted to music, and to be honest my knowledge in that department is not the biggest... I probably did miss some music references here, so I can't really say much about that side of the story, although I must say I did enjoy it! I though it quite strong and thought-provoking and for sure emotinal so, it's a bit of a mix for me this time.
This book deals with health problems like cancer, abuse / physical violence (only one scene). Plus keep an open mind for cursing. As for the story... Silver, is a 15 yo with a VERY dysfunctional family. And when I say VERY dysfunctional is like, the most dysfunctional I've ever read of and yet I adored it? I know it sounds weird, but her family just seemed so realistic, so... humane? And after seeing both their bad and good sides, I just can't help but adore her family and how emotional it made me. They are for sure unconventional but they also have their fair share of normal that felt really captivating for some reason. I adore Silver's grandparents and I loved how strong her mother was! She is such an inspiration! Also, I loved how big and connected her family was (in a certain way).
As for Silver, I could totally see the 15 yo part showing, which sometimes can annoy me a bit, but overall she was a great character. I loved to see her figuring out her life, and how to deal with everything that was happening around her. She is for sure a strong girl and I love how decisive of a person she turned out to be. It was quite hard reading about everything going on with both her and her family, but it was also really rewarding.
There's for sure romance in this book, quite a normal teenage romance, that might at times feel slightly old-school too. I guess it's the effect of reading about a small-town romance, it always gives me this type of old-style vibe? But it was still quite modern. It's a bit of a mix really. But it was for sure enjoyable and surprising at times. There's a bit of LGBT in here too, which I found to be a nice addition.
But there were also some parts that made me slightly uncomfortable, and I'm not talking about the violence part or anything like that. Those made me uncomfortable for obvious reasons and were done well and in a striking and unexpected way. But I'm talking about some normal scenes, that I just didn't enjoy the way they were portrayed... And that's why I kind of feel a bit mixed up on how to rate this book. On one side I feel that it was powerful and emotional and quite enjoyable, but on the other, there are some parts that I didn't necessarily like.
Overall it's an interesting and a quite unique story, with a lot of important messages, with characters that I learned to love and that I loved reading about. It totally gripped me and made me emotional. I would for sure recommend it.
March 19, 2018
I apologize for starting out with a cliché, but honestly, the teen angst was palpable in Kelly Wittmann’s coming of age story. Silver’s fifteenth summer provides our young protagonist with more authenticity than she dreamed of, as well as the opportunity to grow into herself.
Milwaukee was a good setting for An Authentic Experience, as the city is a contrast of old and new, tradition and experimental, music and culture of everywhere, alternative and straight and narrow. Fifteen-year-old Silver, named for her father’s favorite song, is being parented in a trending lifestyle: grandparents who are the bedrock of family and parents who are divorced in marriage though not in roots and mutual appreciation for what they share. Despite all the crazy options for education, they agree on homeschooling their daughter to provide her with what they term authentic lifestyle experiences.
Silver is typically teen at the outset of the story, crazed over a particular neighborhood boy who she later learns hails from a very traditional two-parent family. She longs to experience tradition over her smothering Italian bakery grandparents and former rock ’n roll musician parents, whose current lives of medical trauma (which explains a lot!) and desperation for the good old days, are the only normal she knows.
Getting what you want shows the depth of one’s personality and tends to hone idealism. Silver is forced out of her nest when she must spend the summer at her father’s apartment while her mother needs to leave their apartment to recuperate under the supervision of her parents. As a young teen, Silver is on the cusp of womanhood and sets out to explore femininity and sensuality with the boy of her dreams while learning to see beyond, or perhaps through, her family’s weakness, strength, and depth of love.
By the end of summer, Silver’s hopes and dreams, her understanding and appreciation of normal and authentic have replaced her childhood fantasies.
Told through Silver’s eyes, the story is lovingly drawn, deep, and not easily forgettable. While certainly the language and sometimes shocking adventures of the music scene are necessary to create an authoritative setting, I found the amount of casually tossed-about foul language distracting from what was otherwise a beautifully told tale. A legal issue that was tantamount to the story was unrealistically quickly solved, and no more than a passing mention which could be overlooked at an abruptly wrapped ending.
Silver learns that being authentic does not mean wishing bad things away, or that they never happened. It does not mean trying to do everything for everyone else. Being real does mean trusting family with the really big things in life and sharing events that should not be secret.
While I have no doubt most readers of any age will handle the different types of trauma Wittmann, an educational writer who lives in Chicago, portrays in the story, I suggest parents read the story first.
Recommended for an audience who appreciates the power of attaining self-identity and surviving the minefield of the contemporary teen scene.
Milwaukee was a good setting for An Authentic Experience, as the city is a contrast of old and new, tradition and experimental, music and culture of everywhere, alternative and straight and narrow. Fifteen-year-old Silver, named for her father’s favorite song, is being parented in a trending lifestyle: grandparents who are the bedrock of family and parents who are divorced in marriage though not in roots and mutual appreciation for what they share. Despite all the crazy options for education, they agree on homeschooling their daughter to provide her with what they term authentic lifestyle experiences.
Silver is typically teen at the outset of the story, crazed over a particular neighborhood boy who she later learns hails from a very traditional two-parent family. She longs to experience tradition over her smothering Italian bakery grandparents and former rock ’n roll musician parents, whose current lives of medical trauma (which explains a lot!) and desperation for the good old days, are the only normal she knows.
Getting what you want shows the depth of one’s personality and tends to hone idealism. Silver is forced out of her nest when she must spend the summer at her father’s apartment while her mother needs to leave their apartment to recuperate under the supervision of her parents. As a young teen, Silver is on the cusp of womanhood and sets out to explore femininity and sensuality with the boy of her dreams while learning to see beyond, or perhaps through, her family’s weakness, strength, and depth of love.
By the end of summer, Silver’s hopes and dreams, her understanding and appreciation of normal and authentic have replaced her childhood fantasies.
Told through Silver’s eyes, the story is lovingly drawn, deep, and not easily forgettable. While certainly the language and sometimes shocking adventures of the music scene are necessary to create an authoritative setting, I found the amount of casually tossed-about foul language distracting from what was otherwise a beautifully told tale. A legal issue that was tantamount to the story was unrealistically quickly solved, and no more than a passing mention which could be overlooked at an abruptly wrapped ending.
Silver learns that being authentic does not mean wishing bad things away, or that they never happened. It does not mean trying to do everything for everyone else. Being real does mean trusting family with the really big things in life and sharing events that should not be secret.
While I have no doubt most readers of any age will handle the different types of trauma Wittmann, an educational writer who lives in Chicago, portrays in the story, I suggest parents read the story first.
Recommended for an audience who appreciates the power of attaining self-identity and surviving the minefield of the contemporary teen scene.
August 19, 2018
Really enjoyed this book!
I really enjoyed this book. Silver as a main character was interesting in herself. I loved getting to know her and her dysfunctional family. It was such a beautiful relationship between her and her mother, who is recovering from brain surgery. The writing is original, sincere and captivating. The more I read the more I found myself completely hooked on what was happening in Silver’s life.
This is a wonderful book about family, about being a teenager and the darker side of people’s attitudes towards women. I loved the ending. It tied up the book brilliantly. Silver’s character development was empowering as she became more nurture and independent.
I really enjoyed this book. Silver as a main character was interesting in herself. I loved getting to know her and her dysfunctional family. It was such a beautiful relationship between her and her mother, who is recovering from brain surgery. The writing is original, sincere and captivating. The more I read the more I found myself completely hooked on what was happening in Silver’s life.
This is a wonderful book about family, about being a teenager and the darker side of people’s attitudes towards women. I loved the ending. It tied up the book brilliantly. Silver’s character development was empowering as she became more nurture and independent.
December 30, 2018
Compared to some other genres, I haven’t read as many YA novels as some other readers, but I’m trying to change that, because I’m trying to get out of my comfort zone and read other genres. That been said, when I got the opportunity to read this book, I jumped in. The synopsis made me wonder about the plot, the characters and how everything would end up.
The book follows a teenager girl called Silver Abelli, as she deals with daily stuff, as well as the unexpected turns that life brings, plus all the perks of being part of her family. I loved that this novel shows the ups and downs of life, from divorce and illness to simply stay true to who you are and being independent.
I like the characters in an over all, because of all the interactions and the relationships between them. Silver was an awesome character, and it was fun reading because of how she stand out and her personality. She was different and I loved that.
The plot was interesting and the all book ended up feeling real to me because of all the subjects that are talked about in the novel. I can understand the divorce aspect from the point of view of the couple’s child, but I also know what illness (cancer, tumors, chronic illness,…) does not only to the person that is ill, as well as the family members and friends. The fact that this book talks about both topics and leaves things open to discussion, and the reader wondering and feeling like part of the family and the life described in the storyline… It all connected with me.
Overall, I enjoyed the book. And it was exciting in a way, thought provoking in others, and in the end, it made me enjoy this journey with the characters, going through the drama, excitement that is life.
The book follows a teenager girl called Silver Abelli, as she deals with daily stuff, as well as the unexpected turns that life brings, plus all the perks of being part of her family. I loved that this novel shows the ups and downs of life, from divorce and illness to simply stay true to who you are and being independent.
I like the characters in an over all, because of all the interactions and the relationships between them. Silver was an awesome character, and it was fun reading because of how she stand out and her personality. She was different and I loved that.
The plot was interesting and the all book ended up feeling real to me because of all the subjects that are talked about in the novel. I can understand the divorce aspect from the point of view of the couple’s child, but I also know what illness (cancer, tumors, chronic illness,…) does not only to the person that is ill, as well as the family members and friends. The fact that this book talks about both topics and leaves things open to discussion, and the reader wondering and feeling like part of the family and the life described in the storyline… It all connected with me.
Overall, I enjoyed the book. And it was exciting in a way, thought provoking in others, and in the end, it made me enjoy this journey with the characters, going through the drama, excitement that is life.
June 3, 2018
This new novel for young audiences, An Authentic Experience, by Kelly Wittmann reminds us of our own angst-ridden teenage years when things that now seem trivial would “ruin our lives”. Remember when the perfect guy spoke to you, and your heart did a flip? Remember when your parents were so-oooo embarrassing? It’s bad enough with “normal” parents, but with frustrated musicians who refuse to accept the changes in music and musical talent, well, how can a kid survive?
Silvera (“Silver”) Abelli is the daughter of divorced musicians. She lives with her mother until mom has brain surgery, and needs convalescence time. Mom moves in with her own parents, and, under protest, Silver is sent to live with her dad – her selfish, immature, crude, crass, pot-smoking, sometimes drunk, dad.
Silver’s parents insist on her being home-schooled by her mom because they want her to have An Authentic Experiencein life. They want her educational experience to be without the mean girls, without the fashion-conscious competition, without the risk of social media bullying, and with what they consider “real” music. The problem is that dad, Lorenzo (“Renz”) is not the best father figure – not even close. He curses to and in front of Silver, he uses drugs at home, he brings coarse women into his home with Silver there. Worse yet, Renz doesn’t recognize that his “friend” is too interested in Silver. Her mom, Nicola, still has a bit of a teenager mentality, too.
When Nicola fears Silver would get pregnant, I loved it that Silver thought to herself “Didn’t her mom understand that teenaged girls just didn’t do that anymore? It wasn’t cool. It wasn’t a way to keep a boy. It wasn’t a way to live.” Unfortunately, this is not true.
An Authentic Experienceis a modern-day coming-of-age novel complete with the dysfunctional family that most people have in one way or another. Considering the difficulties of her home life, Silver handles herself with far more maturity than most 15-year-olds would or could. True to issues with which today’s kids are faced, the story includes a foreign-exchange student who is a lesbian, and a hot varsity jock who was bullied as a child. An Authentic Experienceprovides much food for thought and discussion. It was difficult for me to read because I quickly became weary of the teenage angst, and the poor job of parenting her parents provided. Silver was mature beyond her years because she had to be.
What Makes This Book Reviewer Grumpy?
This could have been a much better story, if the editor and proofreader done better jobs. It both angers and frustrates me that the pros did not catch the following errors.
- There is a huge number of phrases with no spaces in between the words;
- spaces in the middle of words;-- an extra apostrophe in the phrase, “Rock ‘n Roll” so that it repeatedly reads: “Rock ‘n’ Roll”;
- sentences without punctuation at the end;
- missing commas;-- several words with the last letter missing;-- verb tense disagreement;
- pronoun/verb disagreement (“lots of people… was there but…”)
- missing capital letters on proper names.
Silvera (“Silver”) Abelli is the daughter of divorced musicians. She lives with her mother until mom has brain surgery, and needs convalescence time. Mom moves in with her own parents, and, under protest, Silver is sent to live with her dad – her selfish, immature, crude, crass, pot-smoking, sometimes drunk, dad.
Silver’s parents insist on her being home-schooled by her mom because they want her to have An Authentic Experiencein life. They want her educational experience to be without the mean girls, without the fashion-conscious competition, without the risk of social media bullying, and with what they consider “real” music. The problem is that dad, Lorenzo (“Renz”) is not the best father figure – not even close. He curses to and in front of Silver, he uses drugs at home, he brings coarse women into his home with Silver there. Worse yet, Renz doesn’t recognize that his “friend” is too interested in Silver. Her mom, Nicola, still has a bit of a teenager mentality, too.
When Nicola fears Silver would get pregnant, I loved it that Silver thought to herself “Didn’t her mom understand that teenaged girls just didn’t do that anymore? It wasn’t cool. It wasn’t a way to keep a boy. It wasn’t a way to live.” Unfortunately, this is not true.
An Authentic Experienceis a modern-day coming-of-age novel complete with the dysfunctional family that most people have in one way or another. Considering the difficulties of her home life, Silver handles herself with far more maturity than most 15-year-olds would or could. True to issues with which today’s kids are faced, the story includes a foreign-exchange student who is a lesbian, and a hot varsity jock who was bullied as a child. An Authentic Experienceprovides much food for thought and discussion. It was difficult for me to read because I quickly became weary of the teenage angst, and the poor job of parenting her parents provided. Silver was mature beyond her years because she had to be.
What Makes This Book Reviewer Grumpy?
This could have been a much better story, if the editor and proofreader done better jobs. It both angers and frustrates me that the pros did not catch the following errors.
- There is a huge number of phrases with no spaces in between the words;
- spaces in the middle of words;-- an extra apostrophe in the phrase, “Rock ‘n Roll” so that it repeatedly reads: “Rock ‘n’ Roll”;
- sentences without punctuation at the end;
- missing commas;-- several words with the last letter missing;-- verb tense disagreement;
- pronoun/verb disagreement (“lots of people… was there but…”)
- missing capital letters on proper names.
September 23, 2018
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
I really wanted to like this book. YA is near and dear to my heart. The story was set in Milwaukee, WI. I was born and raised there. Not sure of the author's connection to Milwaukee but it felt like she's just dropped street names and references and to make it "Milwaukee like". The story didn't feel current. I pictured Happy Days instead of the Milwaukee I know.
Now on to the story, Silver Albelli was a 15 yr old homeschooled student with two has been divorced rocker parents. Her dad Renz was an absolute douche. I couldn't stand him and I believed he suffered from delusions of grandeur. Silver's, mom Nicola, was more relatable. She was suffering from a benign brain tumor and her struggles with the medication and her new normal after the surgery. I really enjoyed Silver's grandparents and her relationship with them.
Silver really didn't have friends and she was into old Hollywood or something she dressed funky, worked in her grandparents bakery and crushed on a guy named Jake. This book just didn't feel like an authentic teen experience from this millennium to me. I got this 1950's or 1960's vibe. Plus some of the references didn't work. For instance, Silver wanted to go to a real high school. The author said Silver wanted to go to Messmer, be a cheerleader and popular. There was one problem with that. Messmer is a predominantly black catholic high school and Milwaukee is extremely racially divided. Just wasn't believable. Then once her and Jake began dating they went to to the beach to sunbathe. Not happening, teens don't go to the beach in Milwaukee. It feels like the author spoke to no teens or immersed herself in their true experiences. Silver made a comment that now days kids her age don't get pregnant in high school or that if you were in a relationship it wasn't real if the guy didn't give you a copy of his baby picture. Ugh? I know it was fiction but it was not fresh or new.
The book didn't get good for me until chapter 18. That's when Silver experienced a personal crisis and how it brought her family together. I read some of the other reviews and feel we read an entirely different book. You be the judge.
I really wanted to like this book. YA is near and dear to my heart. The story was set in Milwaukee, WI. I was born and raised there. Not sure of the author's connection to Milwaukee but it felt like she's just dropped street names and references and to make it "Milwaukee like". The story didn't feel current. I pictured Happy Days instead of the Milwaukee I know.
Now on to the story, Silver Albelli was a 15 yr old homeschooled student with two has been divorced rocker parents. Her dad Renz was an absolute douche. I couldn't stand him and I believed he suffered from delusions of grandeur. Silver's, mom Nicola, was more relatable. She was suffering from a benign brain tumor and her struggles with the medication and her new normal after the surgery. I really enjoyed Silver's grandparents and her relationship with them.
Silver really didn't have friends and she was into old Hollywood or something she dressed funky, worked in her grandparents bakery and crushed on a guy named Jake. This book just didn't feel like an authentic teen experience from this millennium to me. I got this 1950's or 1960's vibe. Plus some of the references didn't work. For instance, Silver wanted to go to a real high school. The author said Silver wanted to go to Messmer, be a cheerleader and popular. There was one problem with that. Messmer is a predominantly black catholic high school and Milwaukee is extremely racially divided. Just wasn't believable. Then once her and Jake began dating they went to to the beach to sunbathe. Not happening, teens don't go to the beach in Milwaukee. It feels like the author spoke to no teens or immersed herself in their true experiences. Silver made a comment that now days kids her age don't get pregnant in high school or that if you were in a relationship it wasn't real if the guy didn't give you a copy of his baby picture. Ugh? I know it was fiction but it was not fresh or new.
The book didn't get good for me until chapter 18. That's when Silver experienced a personal crisis and how it brought her family together. I read some of the other reviews and feel we read an entirely different book. You be the judge.
December 3, 2018
*I received a free copy of this book, with thanks to the author. The decision to review and my opinions are my own.*
This book will not be to everyone’s taste. There is some distressing physical violence, strong language, and sexual content. All of these are handled sensitively and are contextually relevant.
That said, I loved it.
I found myself completely immersed in the Abelli world quite quickly and couldn’t stop turning the pages as I lived Silver’s unusual “authentic” life with her. Not just Silver though. Although the book is told from Silver’s viewpoint I really felt I got to know her parents, grandparents and friends as unique characters in their own right, and whilst they were not always likable, I found them understandable and empathised with their decisions.
The main theme of the novel is the generational divides that exist within families, and how we rebel against the values of previous generations whilst simultaneously absorbing some of them unknowingly. Wittman perfectly depicts a girl on the cusp of adulthood, poised between two (or more) worlds and trying to find her own “authentic” self amongst all of the strong influences that surround and buffet her.
There is one particular violent scene towards the end of the story which was shocking and upsetting, but with raw honesty Wittman captures the truth that the aftermath of such an event can be even more distressing than the initial shock and pain. Silver’s isolation, and the way she tears herself apart trying to balance the conflicting demands on her, is hauntingly real.
I can definitely recommend this as a great read for teens, young adults and adults; kind of a modern-day Judy Blume, but with more alt music references!
Dita always called Silver that– an “old soul.” A child of early divorce, a child in the city being homeschooled, a child whose parents wanted her life to be an “authentic experience”… Her youth had been spent not in a structured environment with her peers but in what her father called “the mad parade of humanity.”
– Kelly Wittman, An Authentic Experience
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
This book will not be to everyone’s taste. There is some distressing physical violence, strong language, and sexual content. All of these are handled sensitively and are contextually relevant.
That said, I loved it.
I found myself completely immersed in the Abelli world quite quickly and couldn’t stop turning the pages as I lived Silver’s unusual “authentic” life with her. Not just Silver though. Although the book is told from Silver’s viewpoint I really felt I got to know her parents, grandparents and friends as unique characters in their own right, and whilst they were not always likable, I found them understandable and empathised with their decisions.
The main theme of the novel is the generational divides that exist within families, and how we rebel against the values of previous generations whilst simultaneously absorbing some of them unknowingly. Wittman perfectly depicts a girl on the cusp of adulthood, poised between two (or more) worlds and trying to find her own “authentic” self amongst all of the strong influences that surround and buffet her.
There is one particular violent scene towards the end of the story which was shocking and upsetting, but with raw honesty Wittman captures the truth that the aftermath of such an event can be even more distressing than the initial shock and pain. Silver’s isolation, and the way she tears herself apart trying to balance the conflicting demands on her, is hauntingly real.
I can definitely recommend this as a great read for teens, young adults and adults; kind of a modern-day Judy Blume, but with more alt music references!
Dita always called Silver that– an “old soul.” A child of early divorce, a child in the city being homeschooled, a child whose parents wanted her life to be an “authentic experience”… Her youth had been spent not in a structured environment with her peers but in what her father called “the mad parade of humanity.”
– Kelly Wittman, An Authentic Experience
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
June 16, 2018
“An Authentic Experience” is one of those books that I call a builder. At the beginning I didn’t like Silver. Not even a little. She seems hollow, selfish and shallow. BUT….(and here is why I call this book a builder) by about the middle of the book I realized that her initial shallowness was part of her evolution as a character. This is one of those books about growing up. It’s about gaining wisdom through experience. “An Authentic Experience” is really about how lifes challenges (whether they be our own challenges or those closest to us) morph us into someone different. Someone deeper. Someone wiser. Someone who is actually authentic.
One of my favorite parts of the book is how it highlights how our metamorphosis as people isn’t the result of just ourselves. It’s that push from a friend or a family member. It’s learning from not only our own mistakes but those of the people around us. It’s community and I think in too many ways that important factor gets overlooked. Especially in books. We often see a hero or heroine overcome disaster but too many times we don’t get to see all the people who make that otherwise unexceptional human into a hero/heroine. It’s like that old saying about raising a kid. It takes a village. Well, it also takes a village to make a hero.
I came out of this book loving Silver. I came out of this book loving her eccentric family and extremely proud of the author for her ability to highlight the layers of humanity. I came out of this book asking myself some very important questions about life. What makes a good parent? How much of a loved ones eccentricities do we forgive? What exactly does it mean to be authentic?
What else can you ask of yourself from a book if not one that makes you think? “An Authentic Experience” is literary gold in my eyes.
Head on over to AlliesOpinions for more reviews like this! https://alliesopinions.wordpress.com/
One of my favorite parts of the book is how it highlights how our metamorphosis as people isn’t the result of just ourselves. It’s that push from a friend or a family member. It’s learning from not only our own mistakes but those of the people around us. It’s community and I think in too many ways that important factor gets overlooked. Especially in books. We often see a hero or heroine overcome disaster but too many times we don’t get to see all the people who make that otherwise unexceptional human into a hero/heroine. It’s like that old saying about raising a kid. It takes a village. Well, it also takes a village to make a hero.
I came out of this book loving Silver. I came out of this book loving her eccentric family and extremely proud of the author for her ability to highlight the layers of humanity. I came out of this book asking myself some very important questions about life. What makes a good parent? How much of a loved ones eccentricities do we forgive? What exactly does it mean to be authentic?
What else can you ask of yourself from a book if not one that makes you think? “An Authentic Experience” is literary gold in my eyes.
Head on over to AlliesOpinions for more reviews like this! https://alliesopinions.wordpress.com/
October 31, 2018
All reviews can be seen on my blog.
Thank you to the author for the free e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
An Authentic Experience is a teen story about Silver, who has had a non-traditional childhood. Her parents agree on only one thing: They want her to have an "authentic" life. That means homeschooling her, encouraging friendships with people who are not her own age, and exposing her to the music they love (and once created). After her mother has a brain tumor removed, Silver spends the summer living with her father and nursing a burgeoning relationship with a really hot football player whose Catholic, family-oriented upbringing stands in direct contrast to her own.
In the beginning, Silver wants nothing more than the "normal" teenage life her parents are trying to save her from. She wants to go to public school, talk about boys, and do teenager things. But throughout the book, Silver begins to find more of a balance between what she thinks she wants and what she really wants, which is a nice happy medium between that and the "authentic experience" her parents have attempted to cultivate for her. Unfortunately, a traumatic experience (which feels like selling it short to call it that, but I don't want to give away spoilers) hastens that discovery for her.
While I liked Silver more than I expected to like a teenage character who wants to rebel against her parents, I did feel like the story lacked a bit of structure and plot. It was really more of an account of her summer, with a climax that came almost out of nowhere, than a story that builds with tension and makes you wonder how it will all resolve itself. Still, it didn't drag, and I was happy to pick it up and keep reading.
I also really loved who Silver had started to become by the end. Although I'm not sure how I feel about what happened with her boyfriend — a little more development could have helped that "moral" shine through.
Thank you to the author for the free e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
An Authentic Experience is a teen story about Silver, who has had a non-traditional childhood. Her parents agree on only one thing: They want her to have an "authentic" life. That means homeschooling her, encouraging friendships with people who are not her own age, and exposing her to the music they love (and once created). After her mother has a brain tumor removed, Silver spends the summer living with her father and nursing a burgeoning relationship with a really hot football player whose Catholic, family-oriented upbringing stands in direct contrast to her own.
In the beginning, Silver wants nothing more than the "normal" teenage life her parents are trying to save her from. She wants to go to public school, talk about boys, and do teenager things. But throughout the book, Silver begins to find more of a balance between what she thinks she wants and what she really wants, which is a nice happy medium between that and the "authentic experience" her parents have attempted to cultivate for her. Unfortunately, a traumatic experience (which feels like selling it short to call it that, but I don't want to give away spoilers) hastens that discovery for her.
While I liked Silver more than I expected to like a teenage character who wants to rebel against her parents, I did feel like the story lacked a bit of structure and plot. It was really more of an account of her summer, with a climax that came almost out of nowhere, than a story that builds with tension and makes you wonder how it will all resolve itself. Still, it didn't drag, and I was happy to pick it up and keep reading.
I also really loved who Silver had started to become by the end. Although I'm not sure how I feel about what happened with her boyfriend — a little more development could have helped that "moral" shine through.
February 10, 2019
Disclaimer: I received this book from the author. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Rating: 3.5/5
Publication Date: February 13, 2018
Genre: YA Contemporary
Recommended Age: 14+ (language, slight violence, horrible illness)
Publisher: Sara Camilli Literary Agency
Pages: 252
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Fifteen-year-old Silver Abelli’s life has been as tumultuous as the punk rock she was raised on. Her divorced parents just don’t get along, even though they’re both musicians who stubbornly spurn the mainstream but secretly crave the limelight. Silver has always lived with her mom, Nicola, but when Nicola is diagnosed with a brain tumor, she must go to live with her obnoxious, hard-partying father, Renz. Because her family is so traumatized by Nicola’s condition, Silver doesn’t know where to turn when she suffers her own trauma. Will the truth set her free, or will it only make a bad situation worse? Find out in this story of family, friends, and young love.
Review: I felt that this was a great book. I loved how it openly discussed the issues of divorce and how to live with a dysfunctional family. I loved the plot and how it didn’t hold back to show how a serious illness effects more than just the ill person. While the person being ill is horrible enough, there’s always a ripple effect with those who are close to the ill person. The book was amazingly sweet and touching. The characters were very realistic and the writing was well done.
However, I do feel that the characters could have used more backstory and I felt the pacing was a bit wonky in places. For the most part though I really enjoyed the book!
Verdict: An emotional roller coaster!
Rating: 3.5/5
Publication Date: February 13, 2018
Genre: YA Contemporary
Recommended Age: 14+ (language, slight violence, horrible illness)
Publisher: Sara Camilli Literary Agency
Pages: 252
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Fifteen-year-old Silver Abelli’s life has been as tumultuous as the punk rock she was raised on. Her divorced parents just don’t get along, even though they’re both musicians who stubbornly spurn the mainstream but secretly crave the limelight. Silver has always lived with her mom, Nicola, but when Nicola is diagnosed with a brain tumor, she must go to live with her obnoxious, hard-partying father, Renz. Because her family is so traumatized by Nicola’s condition, Silver doesn’t know where to turn when she suffers her own trauma. Will the truth set her free, or will it only make a bad situation worse? Find out in this story of family, friends, and young love.
Review: I felt that this was a great book. I loved how it openly discussed the issues of divorce and how to live with a dysfunctional family. I loved the plot and how it didn’t hold back to show how a serious illness effects more than just the ill person. While the person being ill is horrible enough, there’s always a ripple effect with those who are close to the ill person. The book was amazingly sweet and touching. The characters were very realistic and the writing was well done.
However, I do feel that the characters could have used more backstory and I felt the pacing was a bit wonky in places. For the most part though I really enjoyed the book!
Verdict: An emotional roller coaster!
March 16, 2018
I rarely read Young Adult books, always assuming that I'm too grown up and too sensible for all that teenage angst and silliness. ;-) When I was contacted by the author about reading and reviewing her novel, my initial thoughts were a speedy thanks but no thanks. Instead I read the Kindle sample and decided that I quite liked it and took the YA plunge.
I actually enjoyed being a part of this very dysfunctional family with all their up and downs. I liked Silver, she's a brilliant character, so independent, standing out from the crowd partly because of being home-schooled, but also because she dresses in vintage clothes. I enjoyed her relationship with Jake, who I though was a lovely young man. Her cousin Natalie, also her best friend, is great fun. I also liked her Grampa and Grandma.
I really didn't like Renz Silver's Dad, who was so selfish, and obviously still hadn't grown up, no wonder Silver was so embarrassed of him! I'm not too sure how I felt about her mother Nicola, as she behaved a bit like a teenager at times, especially when she was medicated as a result of the brain tumour operation.
Yes there was lots of teenage angst and not just from Silver, but from her parents! There was also a very dark moment in the book quite near the end that made me gasp out loud. I really wasn't expecting it, and it took the story in a completely different direction.
I'd definitely recommend this if you enjoy YA especially with a bit of a darker slant to it.
Thanks so much to Kelly Wittman for getting in contact and providing me with a digital of her book.
I actually enjoyed being a part of this very dysfunctional family with all their up and downs. I liked Silver, she's a brilliant character, so independent, standing out from the crowd partly because of being home-schooled, but also because she dresses in vintage clothes. I enjoyed her relationship with Jake, who I though was a lovely young man. Her cousin Natalie, also her best friend, is great fun. I also liked her Grampa and Grandma.
I really didn't like Renz Silver's Dad, who was so selfish, and obviously still hadn't grown up, no wonder Silver was so embarrassed of him! I'm not too sure how I felt about her mother Nicola, as she behaved a bit like a teenager at times, especially when she was medicated as a result of the brain tumour operation.
Yes there was lots of teenage angst and not just from Silver, but from her parents! There was also a very dark moment in the book quite near the end that made me gasp out loud. I really wasn't expecting it, and it took the story in a completely different direction.
I'd definitely recommend this if you enjoy YA especially with a bit of a darker slant to it.
Thanks so much to Kelly Wittman for getting in contact and providing me with a digital of her book.
April 3, 2018
I was hooked by the Gen X vs. Millennial generational conflict, which does become a basic thorn in the main character’s side. I mean, who relates with their parents? It had enough angst about this, but I kept enjoying and relating with the adults in the book far more than the 15 year old. Maybe it’s because of the 80s references, alternative music mentioned, or the feeling that the book was written by a Gen Xer. I enjoyed it all, but I didn’t get a real 15 year old vibe at times from the main character.
I did get a good up and down sense with the YA romance, but some of the conflicts were talked or told to me instead of shown. It could have used some real dialogue to show the evil of the Channing/villian character or the feelings grow more between Silver and Jake romantically. I just wanted a little more in those areas.
I did enjoy the conflicts between Silver and her parents, living with semi-famous 90s rockers and helping her mother through crisis was compelling writing. But I left wondering how a Millennial 15 year old girl would feel reading this. Would she care about the Violent Femmes references? Know that “Silver” was an Echo and the Bunnymen song?
I know that any Gen Xer that enjoyed alternative music back in the day would really enjoy this and get sucked into the story. Whether a teenager now would enjoy this? I think so. I think it captures enough of the ever happening conflict between generations, which is timeless.
I did get a good up and down sense with the YA romance, but some of the conflicts were talked or told to me instead of shown. It could have used some real dialogue to show the evil of the Channing/villian character or the feelings grow more between Silver and Jake romantically. I just wanted a little more in those areas.
I did enjoy the conflicts between Silver and her parents, living with semi-famous 90s rockers and helping her mother through crisis was compelling writing. But I left wondering how a Millennial 15 year old girl would feel reading this. Would she care about the Violent Femmes references? Know that “Silver” was an Echo and the Bunnymen song?
I know that any Gen Xer that enjoyed alternative music back in the day would really enjoy this and get sucked into the story. Whether a teenager now would enjoy this? I think so. I think it captures enough of the ever happening conflict between generations, which is timeless.
October 14, 2018
An Authentic Experience’ by Kelly Wittmann introduces us to the world of Silver Abelli, a 15-year-old girl living in Milwaukee whose life is no picnic. For starters, her parents who were once rock musicians are now both divorced and not on speaking terms. To make matters worse, Silver’s mother has been diagnosed with a brain tumour for which she has to undergo surgery. As a result, Silver who had previously been living with her mother, has now got to live with her foul mouthed and unpredictable father who seems more interested in reviving his musical career than anything else. Against this traumatic background, Silver’s grandparents provide the real moral support for both Silver and her sick mother. But it takes one further trauma to dramatically shake up the family dynamics and put Silver’s world in a very different perspective.
I really enjoyed this book, which is driven by very convincing dialogue. The characters are all well rounded and the two parents are clearly complex individuals with back stories. You really do feel for Silver who is particularly well drawn. As a bright, inquisitive 15-year-old, she is trying to make sense of the world around her. A world that includes a dysfunctional family, serious illness, her first sexual encounter, and physical abuse.
This is one of those rare stories that will stay with you long after turning the last page.
Alex Pearl is author of 'Sleeping with the Blackbirds.'
I really enjoyed this book, which is driven by very convincing dialogue. The characters are all well rounded and the two parents are clearly complex individuals with back stories. You really do feel for Silver who is particularly well drawn. As a bright, inquisitive 15-year-old, she is trying to make sense of the world around her. A world that includes a dysfunctional family, serious illness, her first sexual encounter, and physical abuse.
This is one of those rare stories that will stay with you long after turning the last page.
Alex Pearl is author of 'Sleeping with the Blackbirds.'
August 3, 2018
Teenagers and their parents tend to butt heads throughout the growing up process as they both want different things from one another, but some do so in a more unique way, as in An Authentic Experience by Kelly Wittmann.
To read this, and other book reviews, visit my website: http://makinggoodstories.wordpress.com/.
Fifteen year old Silver's life so far has been one filled with nontraditional experiences, as her divorced, musical parents thrive on providing her an alternative lifestyle filled with punk rock and genuine experiences running the gamut across the social spectrum. Having always lived with and been homeschooled by her mother, Silver has long desired to be "normal" and have parents who are embarrassing in a more normal way. While her mother recovers from a surgery removing a brain tumor, Silver lives with her rather unobservant, partying father. As Silver tries to navigate this new living arrangement, more is thrown her way when her crush, Jake Sullivan, enters into her orbit and actually wants to hang out with her. As the summer progresses, Silver attains new experiences, but not all of them would be desired.
A quick, thought-provoking read, filled with plenty of discussion points, of a teenager's coming of age and coming to terms with who she is and who her parents are, this story presents a rather dysfunctional family with particularly distinctive views on life. Silver is the most thoroughly developed character who balances appropriate amounts of teenage angst and maturity while the other characters trend more toward the stereotypical. The catalyst for Silver's father to become a stronger, more outwardly caring parental figure for her is an unfortunate reminder of the extremes if often takes for women to be seriously listened to, though it's well-handled in the text.
Overall, I'd give it a 3.5 out of 5 stars.
*I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
To read this, and other book reviews, visit my website: http://makinggoodstories.wordpress.com/.
Fifteen year old Silver's life so far has been one filled with nontraditional experiences, as her divorced, musical parents thrive on providing her an alternative lifestyle filled with punk rock and genuine experiences running the gamut across the social spectrum. Having always lived with and been homeschooled by her mother, Silver has long desired to be "normal" and have parents who are embarrassing in a more normal way. While her mother recovers from a surgery removing a brain tumor, Silver lives with her rather unobservant, partying father. As Silver tries to navigate this new living arrangement, more is thrown her way when her crush, Jake Sullivan, enters into her orbit and actually wants to hang out with her. As the summer progresses, Silver attains new experiences, but not all of them would be desired.
A quick, thought-provoking read, filled with plenty of discussion points, of a teenager's coming of age and coming to terms with who she is and who her parents are, this story presents a rather dysfunctional family with particularly distinctive views on life. Silver is the most thoroughly developed character who balances appropriate amounts of teenage angst and maturity while the other characters trend more toward the stereotypical. The catalyst for Silver's father to become a stronger, more outwardly caring parental figure for her is an unfortunate reminder of the extremes if often takes for women to be seriously listened to, though it's well-handled in the text.
Overall, I'd give it a 3.5 out of 5 stars.
*I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 19, 2018
(I received a free book from the author in exchange for a voluntary and honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own)
Book review: An authentic experience by Kelly Wittmann (2 stars)
An authentic experience by Kelly Wittmann
Genre: YA, Romance, Contemporary
Rating: 2/5 stars
(Review)
(DISCLAIMER: This review is based on my opinion only.)
Silver’s life has been chaotic, her divorced parents are both rock musicians. She has always lived with her mother, Nicola, but she was recently diagnosed with a brain tumor, she has to live with her dad, Renz.
I really wanted to like this book, but I ended up more bored instead. I didn’t click with the characters or connect with them. I was kinda sad at the ending, but I just think it was more of me and the book not clicking.
Book review: An authentic experience by Kelly Wittmann (2 stars)
An authentic experience by Kelly Wittmann
Genre: YA, Romance, Contemporary
Rating: 2/5 stars
(Review)
(DISCLAIMER: This review is based on my opinion only.)
Silver’s life has been chaotic, her divorced parents are both rock musicians. She has always lived with her mother, Nicola, but she was recently diagnosed with a brain tumor, she has to live with her dad, Renz.
I really wanted to like this book, but I ended up more bored instead. I didn’t click with the characters or connect with them. I was kinda sad at the ending, but I just think it was more of me and the book not clicking.
August 21, 2018
DNFed at 72%
I want to thank the author, Kelly Wittmann, for sending an e-copy of her book my way in exchange for a review.
It took me a while to get into the writing style for this book and ultimately I think the story wasn’t for me.
For me personally I feel the pace was too quick and I didn’t really see how Silver grew as a character (she goes from wanting to be someone other than her parents daughter to using the very thing she wanted to step away from to get attention).
Here is my blog post with my full thoughts about the book: https://kimberlyreads97.wordpress.com...
Overall, this story just wasn’t a right fit for me.
I want to thank the author, Kelly Wittmann, for sending an e-copy of her book my way in exchange for a review.
It took me a while to get into the writing style for this book and ultimately I think the story wasn’t for me.
For me personally I feel the pace was too quick and I didn’t really see how Silver grew as a character (she goes from wanting to be someone other than her parents daughter to using the very thing she wanted to step away from to get attention).
Here is my blog post with my full thoughts about the book: https://kimberlyreads97.wordpress.com...
Overall, this story just wasn’t a right fit for me.
November 22, 2018
The author does a good job of developing the characters and examining the young life of a young lady who was home schooled, suffered some familial drama, and tempted by the mainstream world of social media and dating. It is an uplifting book that will resonate with most everyone. For my full review, see my blog: https://maryanntippett.ca/
April 7, 2018
Review originally published here: https://joyfulantidotes.com/2018/04/1...
An Authentic Experience by Kelly Wittmann focuses on 15-year-old Silver Abelli’s who is being brought up by divorced parents who don’t get along and who are both musicians who stubbornly spurn the mainstream but secretly crave the limelight. Silver’s Mam, Nicola, has a brain tumour so she must go to live with her obnoxious, hard-partying father, Renz for the time being. The only thing that could improve her summer is to fall in love, which is exactly what she does with Jake.
This book is not like the average YA novel. Of course, there is the usual petty teenage drama that just doesn’t resonate with me anymore. However, this is balanced by the bigger story of Silver and her relationship with her family. Similarly, there is a lot of deep emotion within the pages of this book that I didn’t originally expect. The story jumps easily and smoothly from a teen crush to an ill mother who has a seizure on her first trip out of the house. What wasn’t as smooth was my rollercoaster feelings, as they jumped up and down. Additionally, as light-hearted as An Authentic Experience could be in parts, it holds some dark topics, which I won’t delve into here in case of spoilers, only to say that they had me feeling angry, sad, satisfied and so much more.
As much as I enjoyed the storyline, it was the characters that sold An Authentic Experience to me. Silver is not like other YA teen protagonists I have come across and I really liked her. However much she feels unsatisfied with her parents unconventional upbringing, they pretty much did a good job. Silver is a strong person who is sure of herself and comfortable in her own skin. Even more importantly, she will not change for anybody, making her a wonderful role model for younger readers. Saying that, Silver’s father, Renz, was my favourite character. I’m not sure how I would feel about him being my father but he was extremely entertaining contained within the pages of this book.
Overall, I really enjoyed An Authentic Experience and the fact that I flew through it in just a few days is testament to this. I really would recommended it to anyone looking for a good YA read.
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
An Authentic Experience by Kelly Wittmann focuses on 15-year-old Silver Abelli’s who is being brought up by divorced parents who don’t get along and who are both musicians who stubbornly spurn the mainstream but secretly crave the limelight. Silver’s Mam, Nicola, has a brain tumour so she must go to live with her obnoxious, hard-partying father, Renz for the time being. The only thing that could improve her summer is to fall in love, which is exactly what she does with Jake.
This book is not like the average YA novel. Of course, there is the usual petty teenage drama that just doesn’t resonate with me anymore. However, this is balanced by the bigger story of Silver and her relationship with her family. Similarly, there is a lot of deep emotion within the pages of this book that I didn’t originally expect. The story jumps easily and smoothly from a teen crush to an ill mother who has a seizure on her first trip out of the house. What wasn’t as smooth was my rollercoaster feelings, as they jumped up and down. Additionally, as light-hearted as An Authentic Experience could be in parts, it holds some dark topics, which I won’t delve into here in case of spoilers, only to say that they had me feeling angry, sad, satisfied and so much more.
As much as I enjoyed the storyline, it was the characters that sold An Authentic Experience to me. Silver is not like other YA teen protagonists I have come across and I really liked her. However much she feels unsatisfied with her parents unconventional upbringing, they pretty much did a good job. Silver is a strong person who is sure of herself and comfortable in her own skin. Even more importantly, she will not change for anybody, making her a wonderful role model for younger readers. Saying that, Silver’s father, Renz, was my favourite character. I’m not sure how I would feel about him being my father but he was extremely entertaining contained within the pages of this book.
Overall, I really enjoyed An Authentic Experience and the fact that I flew through it in just a few days is testament to this. I really would recommended it to anyone looking for a good YA read.
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 29, 2018
Full review available on my blog.
The characters in this book are solid. Silver is interesting, and complicated, but still very much a teenage girl. Her parents drive her crazy in the way parents always do, and Nicola's illness simply makes matters even more complicated. Even the grandparents are well thought-out, as are the other teenagers in the book, such as Natalie and Jake, and the exchange students Luis and Monique. I do wish that the general pace of the book was a bit slower and not so hurried. Maybe it is the world of teenagers that I am so far removed from, but everything in the story unfolds at an incredible speed, allowing little room for reflection. Also, it becomes obvious in certain areas that there are specific issues Wittmann wanted to tackle and points she wanted to make. Some scenes seem shoe-horned into the plot if only to bring up a current societal problem, while others are handled in such a way that make it clear where the author stands, which can feel like a cheat. At some points it becomes an issue of showing versus telling. Overall, Silver's story is one worth getting invested in and following through to the end.
The characters in this book are solid. Silver is interesting, and complicated, but still very much a teenage girl. Her parents drive her crazy in the way parents always do, and Nicola's illness simply makes matters even more complicated. Even the grandparents are well thought-out, as are the other teenagers in the book, such as Natalie and Jake, and the exchange students Luis and Monique. I do wish that the general pace of the book was a bit slower and not so hurried. Maybe it is the world of teenagers that I am so far removed from, but everything in the story unfolds at an incredible speed, allowing little room for reflection. Also, it becomes obvious in certain areas that there are specific issues Wittmann wanted to tackle and points she wanted to make. Some scenes seem shoe-horned into the plot if only to bring up a current societal problem, while others are handled in such a way that make it clear where the author stands, which can feel like a cheat. At some points it becomes an issue of showing versus telling. Overall, Silver's story is one worth getting invested in and following through to the end.
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