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Far Away
A book about life, loss, and the secrets families keep, reminiscent of Sharon Creech’s Walk Two Moons, by National Book Award nominee Lisa Graff.
CJ lives and travels with her Aunt Nic, a famous psychic medium who tours the country communicating with her audience’s deceased loved ones at sold-out theaters. Together, they give people closure and forgiveness, and pass important messages on from the Spirit world. While CJ doesn’t have her aunt’s same ability to talk to the dead, she enjoys playing a crucial role in connecting others with their dearly departed. After all, she knows firsthand what it’s like to lose someone she loves—the only way she can talk to her mom, who died hours after CJ was born, is through Aunt Nic.
But when a magician bent on proving that Aunt Nic is a fraud shows up at their shows, CJ learns an impossible truth—that her mother is actually still very much alive. Now CJ no longer knows who to trust. As she learns more unsettling family secrets, CJ must grapple with the lies she’s been told and the lies she’s helped perpetuate. And in the end, she must decide how to reconcile what it means to find her true family and home—and what it means to forgive.
A poignant, heartfelt novel that explores the lengths we go to protect those we love—and how that impulse can often lead us down difficult roads.
CJ lives and travels with her Aunt Nic, a famous psychic medium who tours the country communicating with her audience’s deceased loved ones at sold-out theaters. Together, they give people closure and forgiveness, and pass important messages on from the Spirit world. While CJ doesn’t have her aunt’s same ability to talk to the dead, she enjoys playing a crucial role in connecting others with their dearly departed. After all, she knows firsthand what it’s like to lose someone she loves—the only way she can talk to her mom, who died hours after CJ was born, is through Aunt Nic.
But when a magician bent on proving that Aunt Nic is a fraud shows up at their shows, CJ learns an impossible truth—that her mother is actually still very much alive. Now CJ no longer knows who to trust. As she learns more unsettling family secrets, CJ must grapple with the lies she’s been told and the lies she’s helped perpetuate. And in the end, she must decide how to reconcile what it means to find her true family and home—and what it means to forgive.
A poignant, heartfelt novel that explores the lengths we go to protect those we love—and how that impulse can often lead us down difficult roads.
272 pages, Hardcover
First published March 19, 2019
39 people are currently reading
3343 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Graff
21 books503 followersLisa Graff is the critically acclaimed and award-winning author of the National Book Award nominee A Tangle of Knots, as well as Lost in the Sun, Absolutely Almost, Double Dog Dare, Umbrella Summer, The Life and Crimes of Bernetta Wallflower, The Thing About Georgie and Sophie Simon Solves Them All. Originally from California, she lived for many years in New York City and now makes her home just outside of Philadelphia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
January 28, 2022
Strong 8 out of 10
Far Away is a book about a twelve-year-old named CJ, who lives with her aunt. CJ's aunt is a psychic and can talk to dead people. The aunt travels around the country doing live shows of talking to dead people. One random magician guy tries to prove that CJ's aunt is a fraud.
This book was a great read. I came into this book knowing nothing other than that it was written by Lisa Graff, who is one of my favorite middle-grade authors. I was very intrigued by the description, and I'm very glad that I ended up reading this.
I had a great time reading this book. It was very emotional, and there were some big shock factors. I always seem to be pleasantly surprised by Lisa Graff's books. I do think the part with all the was a bit strange. Overall though, it was a great read. Definitely a stand-out middle-grade book. Also, the cover is fantastic.
Far Away is a book about a twelve-year-old named CJ, who lives with her aunt. CJ's aunt is a psychic and can talk to dead people. The aunt travels around the country doing live shows of talking to dead people. One random magician guy tries to prove that CJ's aunt is a fraud.
This book was a great read. I came into this book knowing nothing other than that it was written by Lisa Graff, who is one of my favorite middle-grade authors. I was very intrigued by the description, and I'm very glad that I ended up reading this.
I had a great time reading this book. It was very emotional, and there were some big shock factors. I always seem to be pleasantly surprised by Lisa Graff's books. I do think the part with all the was a bit strange. Overall though, it was a great read. Definitely a stand-out middle-grade book. Also, the cover is fantastic.
May 11, 2020
I can tell you, for sure, that this isn’t a book I would have chosen to read all on my own after reading the synopsis. I feel uncomfortable reading about deceit and I wasn’t sure what angle the story would take on psychic mediums. All that said, I’m glad I took a chance because this was a good read.
CJ (Caraway June) is being raised by her Aunt Nic, who just happens to be a famous medium. CJ knows that her mother died when she was little, but Aunt Nic sometimes intercedes and lets CJ’s mother talk to her. CJ completely believes in her aunt’s abilities and sees “spirit” as a powerful being. However, one day she and her new friend, Jax, meet a surprise visitor who shares details about her aunt that threaten to unravel all CJ has ever believed in. This one is a quick read and there’s lots to discuss about family relationships, anxiety, and spiritual beliefs.
For more children's literature, middle grade literature, and YA literature reviews, feel free to visit my personal blog at The Miller Memo!
CJ (Caraway June) is being raised by her Aunt Nic, who just happens to be a famous medium. CJ knows that her mother died when she was little, but Aunt Nic sometimes intercedes and lets CJ’s mother talk to her. CJ completely believes in her aunt’s abilities and sees “spirit” as a powerful being. However, one day she and her new friend, Jax, meet a surprise visitor who shares details about her aunt that threaten to unravel all CJ has ever believed in. This one is a quick read and there’s lots to discuss about family relationships, anxiety, and spiritual beliefs.
For more children's literature, middle grade literature, and YA literature reviews, feel free to visit my personal blog at The Miller Memo!
March 6, 2019
Happy Birthday, CJ. I’m so glad you shared the story of how everything you thought you knew unraveled, starting on your birthday. At first I was impressed by your unusual savvy for handling the business end of your aunt’s shows. What just-turning-12-year-old can navigate cross country with nothing but an atlas? For that matter, how many 12 year olds still know what an atlas is? But your complete disregard for learning other, shall we say more traditional subjects disappointed me. I’m with Jax on this one. You may be able to teach him to drive stick, but he’s got a point.
Anyway, as I read the beginning of your story about how your Aunt Nic was a psychic who spoke to people’s dead relatives, I felt a little uncomfortable. I mean, I don’t believe in all that. But I told myself to just wait for now and see what you believed. You really believed! And it did seem like the universe, you’d call it Spirit, was giving you these weirdly helpful (if sometimes misleading) hints. Sometimes it does seem like something out there, Far Away, might be trying to make a point. Like lights on the highway blinking off and on--they could be my memere waving hello as I drive by--but probably the bulbs are just loose or something.
And you might have just left it at the fluffy chocolate frosting, but I’m glad that your story was more like the messy mango icing. There’s more to the truth than what we might want to see from our own point of view. My own son reminds me of that pretty regularly. I remind him that no one forces us to do anything--we always make choices, whether they’re the ones we wish we had or not.
Am I from Spirit? Nah. I’m just a teacher, a mom, and a reader. Nice to meet you! I'd like to introduce you to my friends.
Anyway, as I read the beginning of your story about how your Aunt Nic was a psychic who spoke to people’s dead relatives, I felt a little uncomfortable. I mean, I don’t believe in all that. But I told myself to just wait for now and see what you believed. You really believed! And it did seem like the universe, you’d call it Spirit, was giving you these weirdly helpful (if sometimes misleading) hints. Sometimes it does seem like something out there, Far Away, might be trying to make a point. Like lights on the highway blinking off and on--they could be my memere waving hello as I drive by--but probably the bulbs are just loose or something.
And you might have just left it at the fluffy chocolate frosting, but I’m glad that your story was more like the messy mango icing. There’s more to the truth than what we might want to see from our own point of view. My own son reminds me of that pretty regularly. I remind him that no one forces us to do anything--we always make choices, whether they’re the ones we wish we had or not.
Am I from Spirit? Nah. I’m just a teacher, a mom, and a reader. Nice to meet you! I'd like to introduce you to my friends.
Read
November 20, 2018Full of heart, humor, twists, turns, and relatable questions about what (and whom) we believe. This book made me think, laugh, feel, and keep turning the pages!
August 28, 2018
I want to preface this review by stating that fantasy is not my thing. If there is any element of fantasy, magic, wizardry, or the like I am neither interested nor invested. Having said that, the advanced copy I read did not have a synopsis of the book on the back cover but, having previously enjoyed Lisa Graff's work, I eagerly plucked it from the publisher's pile. Had I known the subject of the story I likely would not have picked it up. Since I did, I'll share my thoughts.
Far Away tells the tale of CJ, twelve-year-old girl who lives with her Aunt Nic, a medium. CJ has bought into her aunt's practice hook, line, and sinker. She fully believes in "Spirit" and Nic's ability to communicate with the dead. CJ's mother is among the dead, or so she has been lead to believe. As the story unfolds, clues begin to pile up suggesting that not only is CJ's mother not dead, Aunt Nic is perhaps not so palsy with the dead as she has purported herself to be. Now I am not one who buys into this sort of voodoo woodoo stuff. Therefore, my reading was hampered by constant eye rolling. Additionally, whilst on her quest for the truth, CJ stumbles upon a magic society sending signs through octopi. Um, no. No buy in on the part of this reader. Would a child reading the book buy into the book's premise? Perhaps. However, I thought some of the story was hard to follow and, quite simply, boring.
Originally, I was planning to give the book a single star. But the last quarter redeemed the book somewhat. I was pleased Aunt Nic's "talent" was exposed as a hoax and her motivations for telling CJ her mother was deceased were well intentioned. The ending was not one of fairy tales which pleased me because, as already established, I'm not into make believe. (Sorry Mr. Rogers, but I preferred watching you take your sweater on and off to the land where your little train traveled.) In conclusion, if you enjoy fantasy and magic, this might tickle your fancy. If, like me, you prefer realistic fiction, I'd suggest some of this obviously talented author's other novels.
Far Away tells the tale of CJ, twelve-year-old girl who lives with her Aunt Nic, a medium. CJ has bought into her aunt's practice hook, line, and sinker. She fully believes in "Spirit" and Nic's ability to communicate with the dead. CJ's mother is among the dead, or so she has been lead to believe. As the story unfolds, clues begin to pile up suggesting that not only is CJ's mother not dead, Aunt Nic is perhaps not so palsy with the dead as she has purported herself to be. Now I am not one who buys into this sort of voodoo woodoo stuff. Therefore, my reading was hampered by constant eye rolling. Additionally, whilst on her quest for the truth, CJ stumbles upon a magic society sending signs through octopi. Um, no. No buy in on the part of this reader. Would a child reading the book buy into the book's premise? Perhaps. However, I thought some of the story was hard to follow and, quite simply, boring.
Originally, I was planning to give the book a single star. But the last quarter redeemed the book somewhat. I was pleased Aunt Nic's "talent" was exposed as a hoax and her motivations for telling CJ her mother was deceased were well intentioned. The ending was not one of fairy tales which pleased me because, as already established, I'm not into make believe. (Sorry Mr. Rogers, but I preferred watching you take your sweater on and off to the land where your little train traveled.) In conclusion, if you enjoy fantasy and magic, this might tickle your fancy. If, like me, you prefer realistic fiction, I'd suggest some of this obviously talented author's other novels.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2019
Caraway June (CJ) Ames lives with her Aunt Nic, a psychic medium who communicates with the dead and constantly travel across the country. CJ was told her mother passed away when CJ was a baby and CJ's mother is able to talk through Aunt Nic. CJ befriends Jax Degaldo, her friend Oscar's nephew. I enjoyed reading how CJ teaches 16-year-old Jax how to drive stick despite her being only 12-years-old. CJ and Jax form a friendship bond and they go on a cross country road trip to find a tether to CJ's mother's spirit. When they get a clue about her mother's home town of Bakersfield, they travel to talk to a couple regarding CJ's mother's friend's parents.
Lisa Graff weaves in magical realism within Far Away. The ink drawing of the octopus that appears in multiple places is symbolic. The messages vary from "Take Heed" to "Slow Down" and CJ thinks it's her mother sending warnings. A man named Gerald explains that people are "Charmed" with the octopi. I loved seeing how to octopus is incorporated into the book as drawings long the pages of the book.
When CJ finds out that her mother is still alive and is not living in the land of Far Away, she feels disappointed and feels a sense of betrayal from her aunt and her mother. CJ never questioned whether the messages Aunt Nic conveyed about CJ's mother are indeed from her mother. She always assumed that Aunt Nic is telling her the truth. CJ loses faith and wants answers to her questions.
I feel like we need more information about why Aunt Nic lied to CJ and how CJ's mother wasn't in CJ's life. CJ should have been more furious about what happened but she forgives very easily which I was surprised about. I wanted more closure at the end of the book.
Far Away is a coming-of-age story about a 12-year-old girl who learns the shocking truth about her mother from a secret that has been kept for many years. This road trip journey is about discovering oneself and about true friendship.
Lisa Graff weaves in magical realism within Far Away. The ink drawing of the octopus that appears in multiple places is symbolic. The messages vary from "Take Heed" to "Slow Down" and CJ thinks it's her mother sending warnings. A man named Gerald explains that people are "Charmed" with the octopi. I loved seeing how to octopus is incorporated into the book as drawings long the pages of the book.
When CJ finds out that her mother is still alive and is not living in the land of Far Away, she feels disappointed and feels a sense of betrayal from her aunt and her mother. CJ never questioned whether the messages Aunt Nic conveyed about CJ's mother are indeed from her mother. She always assumed that Aunt Nic is telling her the truth. CJ loses faith and wants answers to her questions.
I feel like we need more information about why Aunt Nic lied to CJ and how CJ's mother wasn't in CJ's life. CJ should have been more furious about what happened but she forgives very easily which I was surprised about. I wanted more closure at the end of the book.
Far Away is a coming-of-age story about a 12-year-old girl who learns the shocking truth about her mother from a secret that has been kept for many years. This road trip journey is about discovering oneself and about true friendship.
Read
October 1, 2019Where will Spirit guide you?
CJ lives and travels with her Aunt Nic, a famous psychic medium who tours the country's sold out theaters communicating with the audiences' loved ones. While CJ doesn't share her aunt's abilities, she enjoys playing a role in connecting others with their dearly departed, as she knows all too well how they feel. But when a magician shows up, bent on proving Aunt Nic a fraud, CJ learns an impossible family truth. Stuck with the secrets, CJ must grapple with all the lies surrounding her life. Can she learn to live with this new reality?
A tale of life, loss, and secrets. A story of the lengths we go to to protect those we love.
Extremely trusting and times a bit of a brat, CJ was full of life. The twelve year old went through quite the emotional upheaval. Although forced to do some growing up, she never truly lost her trusting nature.
Accompanying CJ on her journey of discovery, were the caring, but extremely misguided Aunt Nic, and the sweetly anxious Jax. I didn't really believe that a sixteen year old would let themselves be bossed around by a twelve-year-old as much as Jax did, but their friendship was heartwarming as they prompted each other to think differently. The supporting characters got a decent amount of attention, yet I felt that they could have benefited from a few pages more.
I'm not sure I believe in the sort of "talent" Aunt Nic pedaled, but I can definitely see why people would want to believe it. Lisa Graff beautifully leaned on the lines of magical realism to help bring her characters emotions' to life. Though predictable, Far Away was incredibly sweet. This book sensitively touched upon some very heavy subjects like child abandonment, anxiety, found family, and grief to the very open end.
Far Away encourages the reader to never lose heart.
CJ lives and travels with her Aunt Nic, a famous psychic medium who tours the country's sold out theaters communicating with the audiences' loved ones. While CJ doesn't share her aunt's abilities, she enjoys playing a role in connecting others with their dearly departed, as she knows all too well how they feel. But when a magician shows up, bent on proving Aunt Nic a fraud, CJ learns an impossible family truth. Stuck with the secrets, CJ must grapple with all the lies surrounding her life. Can she learn to live with this new reality?
A tale of life, loss, and secrets. A story of the lengths we go to to protect those we love.
Extremely trusting and times a bit of a brat, CJ was full of life. The twelve year old went through quite the emotional upheaval. Although forced to do some growing up, she never truly lost her trusting nature.
Accompanying CJ on her journey of discovery, were the caring, but extremely misguided Aunt Nic, and the sweetly anxious Jax. I didn't really believe that a sixteen year old would let themselves be bossed around by a twelve-year-old as much as Jax did, but their friendship was heartwarming as they prompted each other to think differently. The supporting characters got a decent amount of attention, yet I felt that they could have benefited from a few pages more.
I'm not sure I believe in the sort of "talent" Aunt Nic pedaled, but I can definitely see why people would want to believe it. Lisa Graff beautifully leaned on the lines of magical realism to help bring her characters emotions' to life. Though predictable, Far Away was incredibly sweet. This book sensitively touched upon some very heavy subjects like child abandonment, anxiety, found family, and grief to the very open end.
Far Away encourages the reader to never lose heart.
notes-on-unfinished-books
July 16, 2019notes on the prologue & ch. 1
Perhaps I'm just not the right person for this book. There was something about the protagonist's voice that pushed cleverness so hard that it took me out of the story. It felt like Lisa Graff was constantly nudging me in the ribs and saying, "See how clever I can be?"
Also, it really helps if you, the reader, are at least somewhat interested in mediums/spiritualists. I'm not into that topic, so it just kind of annoyed me. Three are some hints that the medium might be a con artist, but the protagonist is so sold on the business that any payoff will be a long time coming.
I do not recommend this book, but I'm willing to try one of the author's more popular books.
Perhaps I'm just not the right person for this book. There was something about the protagonist's voice that pushed cleverness so hard that it took me out of the story. It felt like Lisa Graff was constantly nudging me in the ribs and saying, "See how clever I can be?"
Also, it really helps if you, the reader, are at least somewhat interested in mediums/spiritualists. I'm not into that topic, so it just kind of annoyed me. Three are some hints that the medium might be a con artist, but the protagonist is so sold on the business that any payoff will be a long time coming.
I do not recommend this book, but I'm willing to try one of the author's more popular books.
December 27, 2019
The story of a young girl who travels with her Gifted aunt who can put people in contact with their dead loved ones... for a fee.
Lisa Graff had me going with this one. I was halfway through before I had it figured out - right where she wanted me to be. It was a lucky think I stuck with it that far, because the premise left me cold at the beginning. I couldn't buy into it. Little did I know, I was being scammed!
What a great ride this turned out to be. I recommend it for any skeptical middle schooler. Tell them to stick with it.
I received this book free from Penguin Young Readers Group and Goodreads in exchange for an honest review.
Lisa Graff had me going with this one. I was halfway through before I had it figured out - right where she wanted me to be. It was a lucky think I stuck with it that far, because the premise left me cold at the beginning. I couldn't buy into it. Little did I know, I was being scammed!
What a great ride this turned out to be. I recommend it for any skeptical middle schooler. Tell them to stick with it.
I received this book free from Penguin Young Readers Group and Goodreads in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 25, 2022
Actually a 3.5 star
I love Lisa Graff books but this one is my least favorite of hers, but still fun to read because I love the main character CJ and her quest to have her mother talk to her through her aunt the medium again. But on the quest to find something to pull her mother back to her she finds out more than she bargains for. Can she ever trust her aunt again after finding the truth of her gift as a medium? It was a fun read. I enjoyed the quest she goes on and her friend who goes with her. I do recommend this book but I would check out other books Lisa Graff wrote as well. Really she is amazing!!!
I love Lisa Graff books but this one is my least favorite of hers, but still fun to read because I love the main character CJ and her quest to have her mother talk to her through her aunt the medium again. But on the quest to find something to pull her mother back to her she finds out more than she bargains for. Can she ever trust her aunt again after finding the truth of her gift as a medium? It was a fun read. I enjoyed the quest she goes on and her friend who goes with her. I do recommend this book but I would check out other books Lisa Graff wrote as well. Really she is amazing!!!
June 19, 2020
Another great book from Lisa Graff, who has such a gift for understanding and empathizing with the doubts and fears, hopes and dreams of young people, along with an impressive gift for writing, also. This book put me off a bit at first, as it seemed to be delving into supernatural spiritualism in a way that made me uneasy; but I should have known better, as Lisa Graff remains well-rooted in realistic and believable fiction that touches directly upon the poignant difficulties and challenges of real life.
August 23, 2019
Something I think Lisa Graff does really well is introduce magical realism, explain nine tenths of it away, and then walk away without explaining the rest so you're sitting there going ...................so there IS magic, maybe? yes?
Because that's how life is sometimes, so why not reflect that in fiction.
Anyway, this is a beautiful portrayal of grief, the importance of being honest, family in a way you didn't expect, and what anxiety looks like - all without ever becoming too bogged down or weighty.
Because that's how life is sometimes, so why not reflect that in fiction.
Anyway, this is a beautiful portrayal of grief, the importance of being honest, family in a way you didn't expect, and what anxiety looks like - all without ever becoming too bogged down or weighty.
March 25, 2019
Maggie Stiefvater meets Lindsay Eagar. I adored the friendship between twelve-year-old CJ and sixteen-year-old Jax. A perfect encapsulation of the moment when a child begins to question her (or his) faith—existentially, and in the adults around them.
May 5, 2019
Very sweet and original story. Lisa Graff is so good with this kind of heart felt family story shot through with difficult truths that kids have to face.
And the subject of mediums being defrauded by magicians also happens to be a favorite interest of mine ! So extra points for that.
And the subject of mediums being defrauded by magicians also happens to be a favorite interest of mine ! So extra points for that.
April 21, 2019
Another thoughtful, beautifully written book by Graff. She always gives me something to ponder and never disappoints me. Loved this tender story. Highly recommended!
June 24, 2019
As always, Graff writes a novel that, while, plot wise, seems a little improbable, is totally relatable when it comes to relationships, and the complete challenge of being 12 and so unsure and uncomfortable with life.
January 12, 2024
I got this book at a dollar store. I think it is supposed to be YA but I enjoyed it as it was just fun.
September 16, 2019
Just when it gets all too unbelievable that twelve year old CJ fully believes that her aunt is a medium (despite so many contradictory clues), the story really grabs the reader with its honest look at family dysfunction. I really enjoyed this story and look forward to meeting the author in April at our school visit.
November 9, 2019
Far Away by Lisa Graff, 266 pages. Philomel (Penguin), 2019 $17
Language: G (0 swears); Mature Content: G; Violence: G.
BUYING ADVISORY: EL - OPTIONAL
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
CJ has an unusual life. She lives on the road with her Aunt Nic, who makes her living as a psychic medium –contacting spirits for their loved ones. CJ loves her life and especially her Aunt’s ability, which allows CJ’s dead mother to talk to her. When her mother ends their communication and says goodbye, CJ is determined to find an item that will allow her Aunt to still make contact, a tether. This starts her on a journey of discovery that turns her world upside down.
There is too much to give away by revealing more of the plot. Lisa Graff is an excellent author and this is no exception –the story moves at a great pace, with excellent characters and lots of surprises. That being said, I felt like young readers might not understand what the concept of mediums or if they did, not have a grasp on why people would be so desperate to talk to their dead relatives. (or any of the controversy about mediums).
(Spoiler alert:)
I have learned over the years that young readers don’t like to be tricked with 'fantasy books' that turn out to be just plain realistic fiction either.
Reviewer: Stephanie MLS & Author.
https://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com/20...
Language: G (0 swears); Mature Content: G; Violence: G.
BUYING ADVISORY: EL - OPTIONAL
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
CJ has an unusual life. She lives on the road with her Aunt Nic, who makes her living as a psychic medium –contacting spirits for their loved ones. CJ loves her life and especially her Aunt’s ability, which allows CJ’s dead mother to talk to her. When her mother ends their communication and says goodbye, CJ is determined to find an item that will allow her Aunt to still make contact, a tether. This starts her on a journey of discovery that turns her world upside down.
There is too much to give away by revealing more of the plot. Lisa Graff is an excellent author and this is no exception –the story moves at a great pace, with excellent characters and lots of surprises. That being said, I felt like young readers might not understand what the concept of mediums or if they did, not have a grasp on why people would be so desperate to talk to their dead relatives. (or any of the controversy about mediums).
(Spoiler alert:)
I have learned over the years that young readers don’t like to be tricked with 'fantasy books' that turn out to be just plain realistic fiction either.
Reviewer: Stephanie MLS & Author.
https://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com/20...
March 12, 2019
Fans of Lisa Graff’s earlier works will be pleased, but may not actually cry or release a sigh of happy contentment when closing the book as with Thing About Georgie, Tangle of Knots, or Absolutely Almost. In Far Away, main character CJ lives with her aunt, a successful medium who takes her show on the road with the help of her niece and small crew. CJ’s mom is dead, but with Aunt Nic’s unique skill set, she is able to communicate with her regularly. Life is rolling along swimmingly until Jax, an octopus with a message, and messages from Spirit threaten everything CJ holds dear. Readers will see most events coming, but not all. Graff concludes Far Away in a satisfying way, not perfectly and neatly tied up with a bow, but with a deep sense of what “family” means. Libraries serving ages 10-14 and/or solid circulation of books by Graff, Cynthia Lord, Barabara O’Connor, and Joan Bauer will want to add this one to its shelves. No warnings about content needed. Thanks for the dARC, NetGalley.
February 6, 2022
I loved this book. I couldn’t stop reading it! I give it 5 stars. I still fell bad for Cj the main character who lost her mom. It’s very interesting how Cj and her new friend Jax try to bring back her mom. In the book Cj’s aunt Nic could listen to spirits or people who died.
May 5, 2019
CJ Ames lives with her Aunt Nic who works as a psychic medium. The two of them are always traveling from place to place so that Aunt Nic can communicate messages from the dead to members of her audience. Aunt Nic also relays messages from CJ’s mother, who died after giving birth to CJ.
But on CJ’s 12th birthday, Aunt Nic announces that she is sending CJ to boarding school after signing a deal to get her own TV show. She also says that her mother’s spirit has gone “far away.” This means that they won’t be able to speak anymore without a tether, an object on Earth that can allow a spirit to return from far away to talk to Aunt Nic. Recruiting 16-year-old Jax, the new kid on Aunt Nic’s crew, CJ sets off to find a tether to her mother and slowly unravels a chain of lies about her past. This causes her to question her family, her beliefs, and what she wants for her future.
Opinion:
This book is full of twists and turns that I don’t want to give away, but that’s what’s great about it. Sometimes it’s funny, sad, and shocking, all at once. All of the main characters make both good and bad decisions, including CJ. Each truth that is uncovered is a huge deal, and they are all revealed in a short amount of time. She barely has time to process one piece of information before another is revealed. This causes her to retaliate in anger, and she takes it out on the person she loves most. You, as the reader, are then left wondering whose side you are on.
Much of the story takes place on the road as CJ and Jax end up on a scavenger hunt looking for answers as each new truth is revealed. During their road trip, they visit quirky places, meet interesting people, eat good food, and work together to follow the clues, find answers, and return in one piece. CJ is a very outgoing girl who uses Spirit to tell her what choices to make. Meanwhile, Jax is a bundle of nerves who has trouble talking to strangers and doesn’t share his beliefs, but he is comfortable around CJ and allows her to take him on her adventure, even if it could cost him his job.
I was expecting a more supernatural story in Far Away, but in the end, I ended up liking it for the story that it really is. It has a good message, and it really shows how growing up can sometimes mean facing the truth and turning your whole world upside down in order to accept it. I recommend this book to anyone who likes mysteries, twists, and stories about strong-willed girls.
Reviewed by a LitPick student book reviewer, Age 33
But on CJ’s 12th birthday, Aunt Nic announces that she is sending CJ to boarding school after signing a deal to get her own TV show. She also says that her mother’s spirit has gone “far away.” This means that they won’t be able to speak anymore without a tether, an object on Earth that can allow a spirit to return from far away to talk to Aunt Nic. Recruiting 16-year-old Jax, the new kid on Aunt Nic’s crew, CJ sets off to find a tether to her mother and slowly unravels a chain of lies about her past. This causes her to question her family, her beliefs, and what she wants for her future.
Opinion:
This book is full of twists and turns that I don’t want to give away, but that’s what’s great about it. Sometimes it’s funny, sad, and shocking, all at once. All of the main characters make both good and bad decisions, including CJ. Each truth that is uncovered is a huge deal, and they are all revealed in a short amount of time. She barely has time to process one piece of information before another is revealed. This causes her to retaliate in anger, and she takes it out on the person she loves most. You, as the reader, are then left wondering whose side you are on.
Much of the story takes place on the road as CJ and Jax end up on a scavenger hunt looking for answers as each new truth is revealed. During their road trip, they visit quirky places, meet interesting people, eat good food, and work together to follow the clues, find answers, and return in one piece. CJ is a very outgoing girl who uses Spirit to tell her what choices to make. Meanwhile, Jax is a bundle of nerves who has trouble talking to strangers and doesn’t share his beliefs, but he is comfortable around CJ and allows her to take him on her adventure, even if it could cost him his job.
I was expecting a more supernatural story in Far Away, but in the end, I ended up liking it for the story that it really is. It has a good message, and it really shows how growing up can sometimes mean facing the truth and turning your whole world upside down in order to accept it. I recommend this book to anyone who likes mysteries, twists, and stories about strong-willed girls.
Reviewed by a LitPick student book reviewer, Age 33
May 3, 2019
Disclosure: I received a review copy from the publisher in exchange for a honest review.
Far Away by Graff is a heart-warming story about a young girl in search of answers about her mother and the power of belief and determination.
Caraway June ‘CJ’ has never met her mother, but she talks to her all the time. How you may wonder? Well, her aunt is a psychic medium that communicates with spirits. As long as CJ can remember she has always been surrounded by spirits; on the road with her aunt going from place to place doing readings. But then one day her aunt tells her that her mother is leaving this plane and going ‘far away’ and that unless they had a tether, she won’t be able to speak with her mother anymore. With the guidance of spirits, CJ embarked on a mission to find her mother’s tether and along the way she discovered something so shocking that it will change her life forever.
At first glance, Far Away seems like a light paranormal read with ghosts but oddly, there wasn’t anything paranormal about it at all. Far Away was purely a mystery. CJ received clues after clues pointing her in the direction of her mother and as the story progressed CJ not only received the answers she’s been searching for, but she found her mother, literally. The book took an unexpected turn and I didn’t see the twist coming a mile away. I was honestly a little perplexed as the truth was revealed but it turned out a lot better than I expected. I loved that the book ended on a high and happy note.
CJ was a tough as nail tween. I liked that she always had faith and determination in getting what she wanted. But sometimes she made selfish and poor choices that affected others and she didn’t care about the consequences. Speaking of choices, half the things CJ said and did weren’t realistic. I have a nephew who is also twelve-years-old, and I can’t see him doing half the things CJ did. For example, CJ tricked a much older kid into driving her to Bakersfield and convinced him not to call the adults and another time CJ colluded with an adult to ruin her aunt’s career. It was unrealistic, or CJ was just a real good master manipulator. Remember, she’s only twelve.
With that said, overall, I thought Far Away was an enjoyable read. It teaches us to always believe, have faith and determination to do what we want despite what others say. And that no matter what happens, it always does get better in the end and that we’re meant to be exactly where we are at that moment.
Far Away by Graff is a heart-warming story about a young girl in search of answers about her mother and the power of belief and determination.
Caraway June ‘CJ’ has never met her mother, but she talks to her all the time. How you may wonder? Well, her aunt is a psychic medium that communicates with spirits. As long as CJ can remember she has always been surrounded by spirits; on the road with her aunt going from place to place doing readings. But then one day her aunt tells her that her mother is leaving this plane and going ‘far away’ and that unless they had a tether, she won’t be able to speak with her mother anymore. With the guidance of spirits, CJ embarked on a mission to find her mother’s tether and along the way she discovered something so shocking that it will change her life forever.
At first glance, Far Away seems like a light paranormal read with ghosts but oddly, there wasn’t anything paranormal about it at all. Far Away was purely a mystery. CJ received clues after clues pointing her in the direction of her mother and as the story progressed CJ not only received the answers she’s been searching for, but she found her mother, literally. The book took an unexpected turn and I didn’t see the twist coming a mile away. I was honestly a little perplexed as the truth was revealed but it turned out a lot better than I expected. I loved that the book ended on a high and happy note.
CJ was a tough as nail tween. I liked that she always had faith and determination in getting what she wanted. But sometimes she made selfish and poor choices that affected others and she didn’t care about the consequences. Speaking of choices, half the things CJ said and did weren’t realistic. I have a nephew who is also twelve-years-old, and I can’t see him doing half the things CJ did. For example, CJ tricked a much older kid into driving her to Bakersfield and convinced him not to call the adults and another time CJ colluded with an adult to ruin her aunt’s career. It was unrealistic, or CJ was just a real good master manipulator. Remember, she’s only twelve.
With that said, overall, I thought Far Away was an enjoyable read. It teaches us to always believe, have faith and determination to do what we want despite what others say. And that no matter what happens, it always does get better in the end and that we’re meant to be exactly where we are at that moment.
July 7, 2019
I thought this was a sweet book and as CJ got swept away, I was hoping this girl’s journey wouldn’t end in a disaster.
I enjoyed the idea that CJ (12) and her aunt contacted CJ’s mother’s on CJ’s birthday. As a medium, CJ’s aunt had the ability to connect with her and CJ looked forward to celebrating her birthday with her mother. Unfortunately, the day arrives when her mother informs them that she can no longer visit them.
After traveling on the road with her aunt for years doing shows, her aunt decides that this lifestyle is probably not the ideal situation for CJ either and enrolls her in a boarding school. She feels it’s time that CJ has a stable lifestyle. You can just imagine how CJ felt about her current situation now. Her world had suddenly come crashing down.
CJ saw no reason for all of this. Why a boarding school? CJ had heard about tethers and spirits and she felt that her mother just needed a tether to keep her connected to the human world, but where was her mother’s tether?
Well, jump aboard on CJ’s journey as she takes you on a ride with Jax as the two of them set off to find this tether. As Jax learns to drive, CJ tries to find her mother’s connection to the human world. On this journey, these two learn more about themselves and each other, a revelation they didn’t know they’d find.
I love CJ’s “signs” as everything seems to fall into place yet Jax sees these “coincidences” popping up just when they need them. They are a fun pair, sometimes pushing each other just enough to make the trip fun. I started to get nervous as some of the events were being led with emotions but in the end, things worked out. The ending was perfect for this novel.
A great novel with a mystery element, friendship and family ties and an all-around entertaining read. I think many upper elementary or middle school readers will enjoy this novel and the characters within it. 4.5/5
I enjoyed the idea that CJ (12) and her aunt contacted CJ’s mother’s on CJ’s birthday. As a medium, CJ’s aunt had the ability to connect with her and CJ looked forward to celebrating her birthday with her mother. Unfortunately, the day arrives when her mother informs them that she can no longer visit them.
After traveling on the road with her aunt for years doing shows, her aunt decides that this lifestyle is probably not the ideal situation for CJ either and enrolls her in a boarding school. She feels it’s time that CJ has a stable lifestyle. You can just imagine how CJ felt about her current situation now. Her world had suddenly come crashing down.
CJ saw no reason for all of this. Why a boarding school? CJ had heard about tethers and spirits and she felt that her mother just needed a tether to keep her connected to the human world, but where was her mother’s tether?
Well, jump aboard on CJ’s journey as she takes you on a ride with Jax as the two of them set off to find this tether. As Jax learns to drive, CJ tries to find her mother’s connection to the human world. On this journey, these two learn more about themselves and each other, a revelation they didn’t know they’d find.
I love CJ’s “signs” as everything seems to fall into place yet Jax sees these “coincidences” popping up just when they need them. They are a fun pair, sometimes pushing each other just enough to make the trip fun. I started to get nervous as some of the events were being led with emotions but in the end, things worked out. The ending was perfect for this novel.
A great novel with a mystery element, friendship and family ties and an all-around entertaining read. I think many upper elementary or middle school readers will enjoy this novel and the characters within it. 4.5/5
April 5, 2020
CJ lives with her Aunt Nic, a medium who communicates with Spirit, including CJ's dead mother. They travel around doing shows; CJ is entrusted with navigating between gigs and assisting during the performances as well. Her life is strange but familiar, and CJ is content until all of a sudden her life begins to change. Her aunt has plans for a boarding school, and CJ finds information about her past that calls into question her entire reality.
In some ways, CJ reminds me of Ruby from Young Jane Young. She's isolated, with a disproportionate amount of responsibility. This gives her the confidence to go on an adventure, but she is also naïve about many things. In other ways, this story is similar to The Mighty Heart of Sunny St. James, in which Sunny has been brought up by her mother's friend. In both stories, the absent mothers play a large role, although in Far Away the relationship is muddled by the fact that CJ's mother speaks through Aunt Nic's medium interpretation.
The end of the story picked up quite a bit, and I found myself appreciating the character growth.
In some ways, CJ reminds me of Ruby from Young Jane Young. She's isolated, with a disproportionate amount of responsibility. This gives her the confidence to go on an adventure, but she is also naïve about many things. In other ways, this story is similar to The Mighty Heart of Sunny St. James, in which Sunny has been brought up by her mother's friend. In both stories, the absent mothers play a large role, although in Far Away the relationship is muddled by the fact that CJ's mother speaks through Aunt Nic's medium interpretation.
The end of the story picked up quite a bit, and I found myself appreciating the character growth.
June 19, 2021
At first, I wasn't sure if this book existed in a world where mediums were real or not. I am perfectly comfortable visiting such a world in a book. However, at the beginning, I just felt uncomfortable, as it wasn't clear which we were in, and, regardless, I didn't like living there vicariously.
As the story progressed, the situation blurred further, as things happened that seemed to reveal, finally, which we were in, as the only other option was some form of mental illness. Having an apparent answer made the story a bit more enjoyable, but, later, an alternative explanation was given that didn't make sense and seemed logistically impossible.
The story made a part of my past reverberate. I recalled struggling with the concept of "real" in fifth grade. Our fifth grade teacher had a car accident before the start of the school year, and I spent most of the year longing for the return of our "real" teacher, only to discover, too late, the sub had actually been a better, nicer teacher. A couple years earlier, I had, also, told a classmate, since she was adopted, her mom wasn't her "real" mom, but I guess a third grader can be excused for such things.
Possibly one of the reasons I wasn't a huge fan of this book was a part of myself was reflected back to me in a negative light, namely how honesty can be an A-bomb that destroys. I didn't find the aftermath of this type of destruction realistic. Time after time, I didn't like the main character's choices so was an unwilling hostage, as I read along. Although I see comments indicating at least some people liked the main character, I did not. It's difficult to enjoy a story when you don't.
A possible future was mentioned early in the book, and I was looking forward to exploring it, yet the main character chose, instead, not to pursue it. It felt like a broken promise. The chosen path wasn't pursued in any meaningful way, so it just felt like she was in limbo. It wasn't horrible, but I found it unsatisfying.
I was actually really looking forward to something the main character had been striving for, something about the title, regardless of why, the fact that in never happened was disappointing.
As the story progressed, the situation blurred further, as things happened that seemed to reveal, finally, which we were in, as the only other option was some form of mental illness. Having an apparent answer made the story a bit more enjoyable, but, later, an alternative explanation was given that didn't make sense and seemed logistically impossible.
The story made a part of my past reverberate. I recalled struggling with the concept of "real" in fifth grade. Our fifth grade teacher had a car accident before the start of the school year, and I spent most of the year longing for the return of our "real" teacher, only to discover, too late, the sub had actually been a better, nicer teacher. A couple years earlier, I had, also, told a classmate, since she was adopted, her mom wasn't her "real" mom, but I guess a third grader can be excused for such things.
Possibly one of the reasons I wasn't a huge fan of this book was a part of myself was reflected back to me in a negative light, namely how honesty can be an A-bomb that destroys. I didn't find the aftermath of this type of destruction realistic. Time after time, I didn't like the main character's choices so was an unwilling hostage, as I read along. Although I see comments indicating at least some people liked the main character, I did not. It's difficult to enjoy a story when you don't.
A possible future was mentioned early in the book, and I was looking forward to exploring it, yet the main character chose, instead, not to pursue it. It felt like a broken promise. The chosen path wasn't pursued in any meaningful way, so it just felt like she was in limbo. It wasn't horrible, but I found it unsatisfying.
I was actually really looking forward to something the main character had been striving for, something about the title, regardless of why, the fact that in never happened was disappointing.
July 10, 2019
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 for Far Away by Lisa Graff, one of my favorite #mglit authors.
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CJ is turning 12 on the road with her Aunt Nic, a psychic medium who tours around connecting people with their deceased loved ones. CJ lives her life by the Spirit and loves talking to her own deceased loved one through Aunt Nic, her mother. On her birthday, however, Aunt Nic springs disturbing news on CJ: her mother has gone to the Far Away so CJ won't be able to talk to her anymore. She and her new friend Jax set off on an adventure around California to find a tether that will reconnect her to her mother, but in the process they unwittingly discover truths that are surprising and disturbing.
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While reading, I couldn't decide whether to HATE this book because of some of the decisions adults in CJ's life were making or whether to LOVE it because of the nuanced way it addresses anxiety, spiritual mediums and messy family life. I think I've decided that any book that evokes that much emotion is a winner. I certainly couldn't stop reading! The truth is, real life IS messy. CJ is brave, but she also makes mistakes just like the adults in her life. Jax has severe anxiety, but he is able to pull it together when it counts. I cared about these characters enough to get angry at the book.
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Recommended for grades 4+. Buy where Graff's other novels (like Lost in the Sun or Absolutely Almost) are popular.
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#librariesofinstagram #librariansofinstagram #mglit #mgbooks #ilovemg #middleschoollibrarian #bookstagram #bookreview
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CJ is turning 12 on the road with her Aunt Nic, a psychic medium who tours around connecting people with their deceased loved ones. CJ lives her life by the Spirit and loves talking to her own deceased loved one through Aunt Nic, her mother. On her birthday, however, Aunt Nic springs disturbing news on CJ: her mother has gone to the Far Away so CJ won't be able to talk to her anymore. She and her new friend Jax set off on an adventure around California to find a tether that will reconnect her to her mother, but in the process they unwittingly discover truths that are surprising and disturbing.
.
〰️
〰️
While reading, I couldn't decide whether to HATE this book because of some of the decisions adults in CJ's life were making or whether to LOVE it because of the nuanced way it addresses anxiety, spiritual mediums and messy family life. I think I've decided that any book that evokes that much emotion is a winner. I certainly couldn't stop reading! The truth is, real life IS messy. CJ is brave, but she also makes mistakes just like the adults in her life. Jax has severe anxiety, but he is able to pull it together when it counts. I cared about these characters enough to get angry at the book.
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Recommended for grades 4+. Buy where Graff's other novels (like Lost in the Sun or Absolutely Almost) are popular.
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#librariesofinstagram #librariansofinstagram #mglit #mgbooks #ilovemg #middleschoollibrarian #bookstagram #bookreview
October 2, 2018
Hmmmmmmmm. I finished this book and stared at it with pursed lips. I didn't like the level of magical realism -- k, I can shrug off your spiritualism, because that's easily explained away. Magical octopuses passing along messages though??!! (also the false plural "octopi" -- "octopus" is of Greek etymology, and "octopi" is a Latin plural ending: so really, the correct plural should be "octopuses".) NO. Nothing else in this book corroborates that level of ungrounded-ness. I definitely also was REALLY upset by the mom's-not-dead twist...except there ended up being a pretty good reason for it? But STILL not good enough imho. Like really, how hard is it to say "I'm raising you because your mom just isn't able to do it that well, but we can still see her from time to time." There! Problem solved! Oh, and the throwaway line in the epilogue of "yeah I went to boarding school for a semester but it wasn't great" -- UM NO, THAT pissed me off. As someone who's left home for an extended time like that, it's NOT a throwaway experience. It's wrenching and painful and EXCRUCIATING. So um yes, very fractured and disjointed storytelling here, and I'm disappointed because it's my first Graff and I'm tempted to write her off completely, but I know that wouldn't be fair. Harrumph.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 10, 2019
Many thanks to Edelweiss Plus and the publisher for providing me with an eARC of this title for review. All opinions are my own.
Actual rating: 4.5/5
I highly enjoyed this book. I have not read Graff's other works, but we do have them in our collection. After this one, I think I am going to make a point this week to pick them up and highlight them in some of my upcoming book talks. I am excited to add this wonderful MG, realistic fiction/road trip story to my collection.
CJ has always traveled with her Aunt Nic, a medium who goes all around the contiguous US doing readings, and booking venues for her large shows where she communicates with the dead. The favorite spirit that Nic talks to: CJ's mom who passed away hours after she was born. But now, Nic says she's doing a reality show. And that CJ needs to go to boarding school. And that her mom's spirit has been called Far Away, the place that spirits go where we can no longer reach them without a physical tether. So, CJ does what any other high spirited and adventurous gal would do: she goes in search of a tether. This road trip leads her to discover lots about her mother and her aunt, and leaves her wondering what, if anything in her life, has been the truth.
Highly recommend. Appropriate for grades 4-7.
Actual rating: 4.5/5
I highly enjoyed this book. I have not read Graff's other works, but we do have them in our collection. After this one, I think I am going to make a point this week to pick them up and highlight them in some of my upcoming book talks. I am excited to add this wonderful MG, realistic fiction/road trip story to my collection.
CJ has always traveled with her Aunt Nic, a medium who goes all around the contiguous US doing readings, and booking venues for her large shows where she communicates with the dead. The favorite spirit that Nic talks to: CJ's mom who passed away hours after she was born. But now, Nic says she's doing a reality show. And that CJ needs to go to boarding school. And that her mom's spirit has been called Far Away, the place that spirits go where we can no longer reach them without a physical tether. So, CJ does what any other high spirited and adventurous gal would do: she goes in search of a tether. This road trip leads her to discover lots about her mother and her aunt, and leaves her wondering what, if anything in her life, has been the truth.
Highly recommend. Appropriate for grades 4-7.
April 30, 2019
"This world would be a much better place if we were all purely rational creatures, but we're not. We're emotional. So we go along believing whatever suits us, until that belief runs us smack into a brick wall, and then we face the truth." Loved this quote. It comes near the end, but it perfectly sums up the author's point. The book's a little unsettling. Very much about death, which isn't a theme the average kid gravitates toward. I do like the cover, which may help sell it.
CJ's aunt is a medium. She talks to the dead. Most importantly, she talks to CJ's mother who died soon after giving birth. Together, she and her aunt live in a tour bus, traveling the country doing psychic shows. CJ believes everything her aunt has told her about the afterlife, until a couple at one of the shows claims to have known her mother. Curiosity gets the best of her. She tracks them down, asks a bunch of questions, does some sleuthing, and uncovers the sad/happy truth.
Lisa Graff is a talented author. She's great at plot and character development. The only question is "Will kids like what she chooses to write about?" Not sure on this one.
CJ's aunt is a medium. She talks to the dead. Most importantly, she talks to CJ's mother who died soon after giving birth. Together, she and her aunt live in a tour bus, traveling the country doing psychic shows. CJ believes everything her aunt has told her about the afterlife, until a couple at one of the shows claims to have known her mother. Curiosity gets the best of her. She tracks them down, asks a bunch of questions, does some sleuthing, and uncovers the sad/happy truth.
Lisa Graff is a talented author. She's great at plot and character development. The only question is "Will kids like what she chooses to write about?" Not sure on this one.
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