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Chop, Chop #1
Chop, Chop
Ever since David's friend Laci was a little girl she's been growing out her pretty, brown hair and chopping it off to send to Locks of Love. When Greg moves into town and finds out what she's doing, he thinks it's a great idea...so he starts doing it too! It's just one of the things that reserved, young David must tolerate as their friendship grows throughout the years. As they near adulthood, they grow not only closer to each other, but closer to God as well. David finds himself content in every way, but when tragedy occurs David must struggle to find his way back to God.
Contemporary Christian Fiction: Top Rated . . . Best Selling . . .Award Winning! Don't let the fact that it's the first in a series scare you off - Chop, Chop is a complete, stand-alone novel that will NOT leave you hanging. Sequels are available, however, for those who wish to follow the characters further. Often pegged as a "Young Adult" novel, demographics show that most readers of the Chop, Chop series are actually between the ages of 25 and 55 (and the sequels are definitely geared toward that age group). Whether you're young or old, Chop, Chop is a true coming-of-age story about friendship, loss and forgiveness that is sure to touch your heart.
Winner of an Honorable Mention at the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference.
Contemporary Christian Fiction: Top Rated . . . Best Selling . . .Award Winning! Don't let the fact that it's the first in a series scare you off - Chop, Chop is a complete, stand-alone novel that will NOT leave you hanging. Sequels are available, however, for those who wish to follow the characters further. Often pegged as a "Young Adult" novel, demographics show that most readers of the Chop, Chop series are actually between the ages of 25 and 55 (and the sequels are definitely geared toward that age group). Whether you're young or old, Chop, Chop is a true coming-of-age story about friendship, loss and forgiveness that is sure to touch your heart.
Winner of an Honorable Mention at the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference.
202 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2008
353 people are currently reading
2125 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 364 reviews
April 25, 2012
Wow! What a GREAT book! It's rare to find one that isn't the same old, worn out storyline. It is a Christian book, but not overly preachy. It all blends very nicely.
At L.N.'s site I read that these books are intended for young adult/teens, but I LOVED them and gobbled them up as soon as I could buy them. I got the first book for free through Amazon, but it's worth paying for. I have never bought a sequel to any of the books I've read. I've always just waited until the sequel came out for free. ;-) In this case, however, I am DEFINITELY buying the sequels to this one!
Additionally, the reviews are outstanding. Five stars on each book this author has written. That's really saying something!
4/25/2012 - Since posting this review I have purchased and read all of the sequels. They were wonderful! I can't wait for the next two books to come out! I'm chomping, chomping at the bit for more Chop, Chop books!!!
At L.N.'s site I read that these books are intended for young adult/teens, but I LOVED them and gobbled them up as soon as I could buy them. I got the first book for free through Amazon, but it's worth paying for. I have never bought a sequel to any of the books I've read. I've always just waited until the sequel came out for free. ;-) In this case, however, I am DEFINITELY buying the sequels to this one!
Additionally, the reviews are outstanding. Five stars on each book this author has written. That's really saying something!
4/25/2012 - Since posting this review I have purchased and read all of the sequels. They were wonderful! I can't wait for the next two books to come out! I'm chomping, chomping at the bit for more Chop, Chop books!!!
June 1, 2018
Powerful ending. This is the story of David who becomes friends with a new guy called Greg, and Laci who is their friend too. For me this book recalls my high school youth group days and hanging out with other church kids while trying to figure out life and faith and crushes. Greg is the real deal, a solidly Christian guy who encourages his friends to follow Christ. Laci is sweet and sells her hair to help others, but the narrative voice, David, is way more selfish but still likable. I expected this to develop into a love triangle but the direction it goes is far more moving and meaningful.
July 8, 2021
"I decided right then that Laci was too good of a liar to ever trust again."
A gripping drama about the choices and consequences of an American teen. What it lacks in over-the-top emotion, it makes up in realism. David’s inner conflicts and humor ring true.
"I had no idea what I truly wanted to do beyond that. Mom kept telling me not to worry about it . . . that lots of people didn’t decide what they wanted to do until years after they’d graduated from college. “Is that supposed to make me feel better?” I asked her, and she laughed."
As the author acknowledges it seems to draw young adult readers. Also an admittedly Christian story, it nonetheless portrays reality, not a sanitized fantasy.
“Thank you for everything you’ve done for me. Thank you for helping me to find peace. I pray that you’ll have peace, too.”
A gripping drama about the choices and consequences of an American teen. What it lacks in over-the-top emotion, it makes up in realism. David’s inner conflicts and humor ring true.
"I had no idea what I truly wanted to do beyond that. Mom kept telling me not to worry about it . . . that lots of people didn’t decide what they wanted to do until years after they’d graduated from college. “Is that supposed to make me feel better?” I asked her, and she laughed."
As the author acknowledges it seems to draw young adult readers. Also an admittedly Christian story, it nonetheless portrays reality, not a sanitized fantasy.
“Thank you for everything you’ve done for me. Thank you for helping me to find peace. I pray that you’ll have peace, too.”
December 4, 2012
I loved this book. The story follows the lives of 3 friends, Laci, Greg, and David. This book has a lot of humor, but also a bittersweet ending. If you're the type to cry while reading books, you might need a tissue for this one!
I would call this a teen book, although I think you could enjoy reading it at any age (though if you are a parent of a younger child, I would suggest reading it through first and then deciding if your child is mature enough to handle the ending. It could be upsetting for more sensitive children). I think we need more books like this for Christian teens. Instead of the fluffy, meaningless romances I usually find in the teen section, I was pleasantly surprised by Chop, Chop. It's mostly a story of friendship and faith, with a tragic twist at the end, and a message at the end that just makes you go, WOW. Seriously, you need to read this. I loved that the author wasn't afraid to make the story real. Real life isn't always sunshine and rainbows, and neither is this story.
You should definitely give this book a try, it'll be worth it. Also, this book has been free for a LONG time on Amazon as a Kindle ebook, so there's a good chance you can still get it for nothing.
I would call this a teen book, although I think you could enjoy reading it at any age (though if you are a parent of a younger child, I would suggest reading it through first and then deciding if your child is mature enough to handle the ending. It could be upsetting for more sensitive children). I think we need more books like this for Christian teens. Instead of the fluffy, meaningless romances I usually find in the teen section, I was pleasantly surprised by Chop, Chop. It's mostly a story of friendship and faith, with a tragic twist at the end, and a message at the end that just makes you go, WOW. Seriously, you need to read this. I loved that the author wasn't afraid to make the story real. Real life isn't always sunshine and rainbows, and neither is this story.
You should definitely give this book a try, it'll be worth it. Also, this book has been free for a LONG time on Amazon as a Kindle ebook, so there's a good chance you can still get it for nothing.
April 25, 2023
I read this many years ago and loved it! Highly recommend.
February 13, 2013
Story: 3/5
The story is a good one; kids growing up together in a small town, discovering God, the opposite gender, and heartbreak, both romantic and otherwise. Though it's nothing really original, it still works.
Writing: 0.5/5
Oh, my goodness; where do I start? First off, the book moves too fast; in less than 200 "pages"--of large print and with plenty of blank space, mind you--we're taken through the characters' childhoods, teenage years, and the beginning of their adult life. It felt like I was watching a DVD on a player with the fast forward button stuck. Not only that, but most of the characters and places were vaguely described. If they decided to make Chop, Chop into a movie--please don't, Hollywood!--it would be pretty much up to the producers as to the ethnicity, eye color, hair color, height, style of dress, etc., of the characters, because they get little mention. From what I hear, Victor Hugo's writings--which I haven't read! I know; what kind of avid reader am I?--are notorious for their long, detailed descriptions; well, this is the polar opposite of that. Seriously, this book is written like a elongated summary, a poor movie or TV novelization, or a middle schooler's account of what he or she did this past summer.
Content: 2.5/5
If this weren't a Christian novel, it would be higher. Still, usage of profane phrases or words such as, "Oh, my G--!," "Good L---!," and "C--p!" were just too much. True, some of those usages are vilified...but not all of them. Talk about "think[ing] we're gay" muddles things ever further. Also of note: The "tragedy" mentioned in the synopsis involves violence that may hit too close to home for many readers, in light of recent events.
Conclusion: The self-publishing business may be good for some, but Chop, Chop is one of the biggest literary disappointments I have ever experienced. The end matter says that there are eight books in the series; seriously, how can this mess go on for even two or three novels? If you're looking for a well-written Christian drama, go find something by Karen Kingsbury; seriously, her novels are great, especially when compared to this garbage. I'm glad this one was free for the Kindle; I may have wasted my time and iPad battery power reading it, but at least I didn't pay for the book itself.
Score:1/5
The story is a good one; kids growing up together in a small town, discovering God, the opposite gender, and heartbreak, both romantic and otherwise. Though it's nothing really original, it still works.
Writing: 0.5/5
Oh, my goodness; where do I start? First off, the book moves too fast; in less than 200 "pages"--of large print and with plenty of blank space, mind you--we're taken through the characters' childhoods, teenage years, and the beginning of their adult life. It felt like I was watching a DVD on a player with the fast forward button stuck. Not only that, but most of the characters and places were vaguely described. If they decided to make Chop, Chop into a movie--please don't, Hollywood!--it would be pretty much up to the producers as to the ethnicity, eye color, hair color, height, style of dress, etc., of the characters, because they get little mention. From what I hear, Victor Hugo's writings--which I haven't read! I know; what kind of avid reader am I?--are notorious for their long, detailed descriptions; well, this is the polar opposite of that. Seriously, this book is written like a elongated summary, a poor movie or TV novelization, or a middle schooler's account of what he or she did this past summer.
Content: 2.5/5
If this weren't a Christian novel, it would be higher. Still, usage of profane phrases or words such as, "Oh, my G--!," "Good L---!," and "C--p!" were just too much. True, some of those usages are vilified...but not all of them. Talk about "think[ing] we're gay" muddles things ever further. Also of note: The "tragedy" mentioned in the synopsis involves violence that may hit too close to home for many readers, in light of recent events.
Conclusion: The self-publishing business may be good for some, but Chop, Chop is one of the biggest literary disappointments I have ever experienced. The end matter says that there are eight books in the series; seriously, how can this mess go on for even two or three novels? If you're looking for a well-written Christian drama, go find something by Karen Kingsbury; seriously, her novels are great, especially when compared to this garbage. I'm glad this one was free for the Kindle; I may have wasted my time and iPad battery power reading it, but at least I didn't pay for the book itself.
Score:1/5
July 3, 2013
Well, it was slow day and I read this whole book in one go. Not particularly impressive at only about 200 pages, but it does speak well for the writing and style. It's the story of childhood friends David, Laci & Greg. First off, let me assure you that despite there being three of them and the mention of an honors geometry class, there are no triangles in the story, love or otherwise. Though who doesn't like a good isosceles every once in a while. (Sorry, I was a math major, and sometimes the geek just comes busting out)
As I said, it's a short book so there isn't much I can say without revealing something. Suffice to say, that it's an easy read and even at 41 I could empathize with the characters. I enjoyed it, and I'll likely be looking to pick up the others in the series as some filler reading between the doorstop epics.
As I said, it's a short book so there isn't much I can say without revealing something. Suffice to say, that it's an easy read and even at 41 I could empathize with the characters. I enjoyed it, and I'll likely be looking to pick up the others in the series as some filler reading between the doorstop epics.
January 29, 2014
I don't remember many things happening until the last third of the book or so. I would have rated it maybe OK without the last segment where it gets to the real story. But that is exactly what this book is about: life. You may be tested like this at any given time, and rest assured: you can never ever be prepared. I think this book is about forgiving. And I thought myself quite an easy person to forgive. But I had to reconsider, because what I read in this book... if that would have happened to me, there's no way I could have pulled off what the real hero in this book does. No way. I cried like hell after this book for like a day, and I was filled with sorrow for at least a fortnight. And I still carry it with me and this story will always be with me. I can never forget it.
April 19, 2017
I read the first book, Chop, Chop, and then read the next 6 in the series. The books are amazing! I was hard to put my kindle down and I read well past a respectable bed time many nights because I was so engrossed in the story. The characters are great, my favorites wound up being Tanner and Laci. If you read the entire series have a box of tissue ready for the last book where the story is told from Tanner's perspective.
March 14, 2017
I got this book as a Kindle freebie quite awhile ago. It had received rave reviews and I was intrigued because it didn't sound like much of a story and the cover didn't exactly draw my eye. I wasn't sure what to expect, since all I really knew about it was that it is a Christian book with a character who likes to donate her hair to Locks of Love (hence the title Chop, Chop). It ended up being a surprisingly good story that follows a trio of friends from grade school through college. It was very easy to read, with an engaging tone that pulled me in. It's a great little story about friendship, love, forgiveness, and seeking God's will. I got the entire series free on Amazon and look forward to continuing the story.
February 7, 2017
From Goodreads: "Ever since David's friend Laci was a little girl she's been growing out her pretty, brown hair and chopping it off to send to Locks of Love. When Greg moves into town and finds out what she's doing, he thinks it's a great idea...so he starts doing it too! It's just one of the things that reserved, young David must tolerate as their friendship grows throughout the years. As they near adulthood, they grow not only closer to each other, but closer to God as well. David finds himself content in every way, but when tragedy occurs David must struggle to find his way back to God."
Cronk has written a wonderful book about growing up, finding a forever love, and facing tragedy in this fast-paced world. Along the way, he deals with forgiveness, both ours for our fellow man and God's forgiveness of our lost ways.
Cronk has written a wonderful book about growing up, finding a forever love, and facing tragedy in this fast-paced world. Along the way, he deals with forgiveness, both ours for our fellow man and God's forgiveness of our lost ways.
July 9, 2012
This book was such a realistic look at the pre-teen/teenage years of the lives of young boys who have good friends and great families that surround them. I immediately liked all the characters, especially David and Greg. David was truly a grumpy kid but in a hilarious way and it was funny that he was so easy for his friends to tease. Greg was smart, witty, and knew himself well (he was so free spirited). It had a lot to do with the fact that Greg's father, Mr. White, was such a loving, caring and helpful man. He loved David as much as he loved his own son, Greg. Greg was not a jealous, grudge holding person although, David could be, that is why they made such good friends. They complemented one another. I like how Cronk pulls the reader in and you end up liking/loving these people though out the novel. I almost couldn't finish due to my uncontrollable sobbing towards the end. I kept having to put it down and get myself together before diving in again. I felt David's pain and it broke my heart. But, I managed it and I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
April 17, 2012
This book was so amazing! I got it for free on my Nook, and wasn't sure how I'd like it based on the picture on the cover (was it about a barber?) But I am sooooo glad I didn't judge the book by its cover, because it was one of the best books ever! It is a super great story, with powerful characters who draw you right in! When I got done, I was elated to find out there were sequels, and I immediately bought them all! None of the books let me down, and I seriously sobbed through the last book "Gone". It was almost embarrassing how I was crying while reading, tears streaming down my face, and weird looks from my husband! You fall in love with these characters, and it is so nice to have Christian books that are well written, not too preachy, and entertain! The author has said there are 2 more coming, and I'm already antsy! I think I read the first 5 in a 7 day period! Definitely get this book!!!
June 18, 2010
David and Laci have known each other since they were in preschool. Laci continually grows out her hair, chops it off, and sends it to Locks of Love. It’s one of the things about her that annoys him.
When they reach junior high, Greg moves to town and becomes David’s best friend. He, Greg, and Laci are really more of a threesome. They go to school together, youth group, missions trips, and to each other’s houses. Life is good. Until a tragedy strikes that rocks David’s world.
At first glance I wondered what this book would be about. Something to do with hair? Don’t let the cover fool you! Chop, Chop is a gem! Cronk weaves strands of humor, realism and heart-wrenching emotion into David’s story so well that I read the book in one sitting. Readers will be touched again and again as they read about David and his friends. What amazing characters. Highly recommended.
When they reach junior high, Greg moves to town and becomes David’s best friend. He, Greg, and Laci are really more of a threesome. They go to school together, youth group, missions trips, and to each other’s houses. Life is good. Until a tragedy strikes that rocks David’s world.
At first glance I wondered what this book would be about. Something to do with hair? Don’t let the cover fool you! Chop, Chop is a gem! Cronk weaves strands of humor, realism and heart-wrenching emotion into David’s story so well that I read the book in one sitting. Readers will be touched again and again as they read about David and his friends. What amazing characters. Highly recommended.
August 7, 2012
3.5 stars actually.
It was a Christian novel that had likable, well developed characters. The book takes them through the school years including college. Most of the time, it was not preachy and when it was a bit, it was one character to another in a way that wasn't overbearing. Greg was almost unbelievable for his devotion at his young age. But wouldn't the world be better with more young men like him.
The plot goes through the usual trials of growing up and a whopper that made my eyes a bit more than misty. I could relate to the various ways it was handled by the different characters.
In all, a reminder of the strength we can develop through good times and bad with the help of good friends and loved one.
It was a Christian novel that had likable, well developed characters. The book takes them through the school years including college. Most of the time, it was not preachy and when it was a bit, it was one character to another in a way that wasn't overbearing. Greg was almost unbelievable for his devotion at his young age. But wouldn't the world be better with more young men like him.
The plot goes through the usual trials of growing up and a whopper that made my eyes a bit more than misty. I could relate to the various ways it was handled by the different characters.
In all, a reminder of the strength we can develop through good times and bad with the help of good friends and loved one.
May 8, 2014
So this is my first review I have ever written so sorry if it's totally poopooish.
Well this book was TOTALLY awesome! The whole time you read it your like " this is so good .... But nothing bad is happening" and you know something bad always happens in books. And then finally at the end... Well can't spoil nothing but when the 'tragic' thing happens I CRIED SO HARD!!!! it's just like " wh-what..... N-no.... That can't happen!" and I had to read the ' tragic ' thing over like two times over. Before I realized what actually happened.
But overall... Even though this review did not explain anything, it is a ggggggreat book!!! I laughed out loud and cried really hard the whole time..... So ya you should probably read the book. Cause now you HAVE to know the ' tragic ' thing that happens
Well this book was TOTALLY awesome! The whole time you read it your like " this is so good .... But nothing bad is happening" and you know something bad always happens in books. And then finally at the end... Well can't spoil nothing but when the 'tragic' thing happens I CRIED SO HARD!!!! it's just like " wh-what..... N-no.... That can't happen!" and I had to read the ' tragic ' thing over like two times over. Before I realized what actually happened.
But overall... Even though this review did not explain anything, it is a ggggggreat book!!! I laughed out loud and cried really hard the whole time..... So ya you should probably read the book. Cause now you HAVE to know the ' tragic ' thing that happens
January 24, 2015
I related to this story, as it told of the deep friendship among kids in a local youth group. Seeing how their faith and the lessons they learned together shaped how they dealt with the world was so encouraging, and I pondered how some of those early life lessons of my own have shaped my entire life.
There is a lot of sadness in the story, and yet there is triumph over the worst of circumstances too. I'm sorry I waited so long to read this book, and I definitely plan to read more of the books in the series.
There is a lot of sadness in the story, and yet there is triumph over the worst of circumstances too. I'm sorry I waited so long to read this book, and I definitely plan to read more of the books in the series.
January 19, 2022
I enjoyed this book but more so I think because I loved the second book so much. It's got some good humour and nice lines but Day-Day is just another whole level. Definitely worth reading this book to set you up for the second ☺
EDIT: I'm reading this series for the third time several years after writing my first review. I LOVED this book the 2nd and third time. I think it threw me a little the first time because I read them out of order (Day-Day, then Chop, Chop). I'm a little shocked I could have said anything vaguely negative. Honestly my favourite contemporary series of all time!
EDIT: I'm reading this series for the third time several years after writing my first review. I LOVED this book the 2nd and third time. I think it threw me a little the first time because I read them out of order (Day-Day, then Chop, Chop). I'm a little shocked I could have said anything vaguely negative. Honestly my favourite contemporary series of all time!
February 3, 2013
Truth is, I'm still crying. This book came when I needed its truth. Best book ever. Why is it not more popular? Why was this book free? Omigosh, I loved it!! Jesus just loves so much. He died for you, me-Hitler, Marilyn Monroe, and Mother Teresa. He loves us all the same!!! Even though we don't deserve it. I'm making all my friends read this!!!
And I love Greg, Davey, and Lacie. Really lovable characters who were believable also. A "good read".
And I love Greg, Davey, and Lacie. Really lovable characters who were believable also. A "good read".
February 14, 2014
Although well written, it was a little heavy on the god. Other than that it was alright. Not stellar, but not terrible. Although, I did feel like whipping through 7 years of life in 170 pages made it feel a little rushed. It would have been nice to have more development on some of the events that took place in the book.
February 10, 2013
This is a book that lets you know something bad is on the way in the first couple pages, but then gets light and funny and absorbing so that you forget. Then, BAM! Right in the gut when the bad thing happens. I kind of whimpered out loud a couple times in the last part of the book. It was so good, though. I'm glad I read it.
February 2, 2017
4.5 stars
Excellent. The loss of half a star is to keep the author humble and because I don't really like the title.
Very moving, very real, very worth reading and well written. A pleasure to have spent the last 3 hours reading. Best of all, it moved me to tears. That to me is the sign of a good book.
This is a Christian novel that I think teenage boys would like too - a rare thing.
Excellent. The loss of half a star is to keep the author humble and because I don't really like the title.
Very moving, very real, very worth reading and well written. A pleasure to have spent the last 3 hours reading. Best of all, it moved me to tears. That to me is the sign of a good book.
This is a Christian novel that I think teenage boys would like too - a rare thing.
September 19, 2011
This book is great! It's a Christian love story, but so much more. Once I started reading, I couldn't put it down. The story could easily be based on you or me. I fully intend in reading the other books in this series.
April 6, 2012
i absolutly loved this book! its not my typical style but i found myself instantly hooked. i hate books that make you cry but this book was just amazing every tear was well worth it i cant wait to read the next one
June 4, 2012
When I began, this book I thought that it would be just the typical run-of-the mill, angst-ridden, growing up teen novel. I have to say I was very surprised at how different it was and how well it was done. I look forward to reading the next book in the series Day-Day.
January 12, 2013
A very moving story. I was drawn in by the characters and their lives. I did wonder if they were a little too mature for their ages. Other kids being worried about helping the new kid fit in, etc. was a little different from my high school experience, but I still enjoyed it.
April 18, 2014
Wow I really loved this book that was a freebie on Amazon. I normally don't like books that make me cry, but this was a rare exception. I can't say much without giving it away, but I would definitely recommend this book and I will be purchasing and reading the rest in the series.
January 30, 2015
If you want a good coming of age book that will make you laugh & cry while expounding Christian values, this is a fantastic book. Though the characters are teens the message is very good for anyone of any age. I'm looking forward to reading the other books in the series!
September 6, 2015
This story had me crying my eyes out. It is about 3 best friends and the average teenage drama growing up. Then there is a terrible tragedy after a school shooting. But even after something so horrible, good can come out of it if you are willing to be used of God.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2012
A quick read I got for free. It was great. Shows how friends can truly influence one another to become closer to God. This is the first in a series...getting the next one now. Highly recommend.
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