Finding True North

by Dianne Beck

North Carolina Simon hates her name. As a fourteen-year-old girl growing up in the 1970s, she
has a lot of challenges. People not only make fun of her name, but also scoff at her eccentric
family. Dad’s a hoarder, Mom’s an unpredictable artist, and her older sister lives with an autism diagnosis. After a humiliating middle school event shatters her confidence as a singer, North determines to break free from the stigma surrounding her family.

As she starts high school, North tells people to call her Carol. Armed with a new name, she updates her appearance, befriends a popular boy in hopes of joining his band, distances herself from her two longtime friends, and avoids being seen with her adoring and dependent sister. Everything seems to be going according to plan until her sister suddenly disappears. Carol is forced to face reality. Should she continue to focus all her time and energy on fitting in or should she surrender to God’s calling on her life?

Finding True North is a prequel to Sticks and Stones, but each can be read as stand-alone novels.

Genres: Young Adult, Christian Fiction

Unknown Binding

Published January 31, 2023

About the author

Dianne Beck has spent most of her career teaching students ranging from kindergarten through
adult and currently works as a high school youth director at her church. In each of these roles,
she hopes to encourage students to be their own unique selves, to have confidence in who they
are, and to follow their passions. 

Dianne’s debut young adult novel Sticks and Stones, winner of multiple awards, was inspired by
her years of teaching, where she saw how an understanding ear and relevant literature could
make a significant impact on students’ lives. She hopes young people and adults can find faith
and strength in her stories.

Her second novel, Finding True North, is set for release in January of 2023.

Visit her author website at diannebeck.com.

Reviews

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I chose to read "Finding True North" because its main character was born at a similar time to me. It was fun to read a novel set during my own childhood, and there were references to various things from the '70s -- TV dinners, jello, certain TV shows and songs, etc. One major character has "an autism diagnosis" which seemed curious; I began teaching in 1989 and the first I ever heard of autism was in the mid '90s.

Beck put me back in high school again, with the angst that can arise while trying to navigate various friend groups. I recalled the conflict of wanting to be popular, while at the same time not really liking who the popular kids were. This was a gentle, enjoyable read. I appreciated its overall Christian focus and think I'd enjoy getting to know Dianne; she seems like a kindred spirit.

[pawsreadrepeat · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you Dianne Beck and RABT Books Tours and PR. I'm excited to be a part of this tour.

What a beautiful story of acceptance. In Finding True North, we meet 14-year-old North Carolina Simon. Already feeling like an outcast. A humiliating middle event shatters her confidence as a singer, she decides to break free from the stigma of her family and find her True North.

This book is engaging and well written. I appreciated the spiritual aspect of this book and found myself simultaneously rooting for and empathizing with North Carolina/Carol. The struggle she goes through when her sister is kidnapped drew me in and didn’t let go. The growth demonstrated by Carol was inspiring. I also enjoyed the descriptions. They were so vivid, I could picture each scene in my mind’s eye as I read.

The author did a great job of blending complex characters with an inspiring story of acceptance of self, others, and the things we cannot change. I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading more from this author!

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Young Adult Fiction is a genre I read every once in a while. I recently read Finding True North by Dianne Beck. The synopsis and book cover intrigued me.

The time is the 1970's and North Carolina Simon is a 14-year-old girl who loathes her name. Her family life is also so different from those around her. Her mom is an Artist, her Dad a Hoarder and her older sister has Autism. She is in Middle School and has a traumatic event that has lowered her confidence that she has a beautiful singing voice. North is now ready to enter High School and she now goes by the name Carol. She also gets a makeover and becomes friends with a popular boy. Her longtime friends are not so close to her anymore and Carol also tries to avoid associating with her Older Sister. Carol is finally enjoying life and then her older sister disappears. Carol is really worried about her sister and feels her own changes might be the reason her sister is missing. Will Carol find her Sister safe? Will Carol be able to find her own true identity?

I am very glad that I read this book. The storyline is very relevant in today's society. North/Carol was being bullied and ridiculed due to many things that she could not control. She really only wanted to be liked and to live a "normal" life and set out to change herself. I really love how the Author addresses self-worth with Scriptures and Encouragement. I feel that Teen Girls will be encouraged by this book, as will adults. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Fiction. GREAT BOOK!

[Hannah-rose Russell · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a fourteen-year-old girl struggling to fit in with her peers in the 1970s, North Carolina Simon hates her name and her family’s eccentricities that often draw unwanted attention — her father is a hoarder, her mother is an unpredictable artist, and her older sister lives with an autistic diagnosis. With high school on the horizon, North is determined to break free from her family’s shadow, adopting a new name (Carol) and wardrobe in an attempt to reinvent herself.

“As the last graduate was named, everyone stood and cheered, and I let out the loudest cheer ever, ready for my new name and new look to raise me above my lowly existence too.” ~ Dianne Beck

However, as she distances herself from her two longtime friends and adoring, dependent sister to befriend the popular crowd and showcase her singing talents, North soon realizes that change comes at a price. Faced with the consequences of her actions, North must decide whether fitting in is worth the cost or trust that God has a bigger, better plan for her life. Will she make the right choice in time to repair the damage she’s caused?

“If I wanted to make that vision real, I had to risk being heard.” ~ Dianne Beck

Finding True North is a heart-warming and witty coming-of-age story that encourages young readers to be unapologetically themselves! Through relatable characters and powerful lessons on topics such as bullying, friendship, racism, disabilities, and love, this novel is perfect for those transitioning into high school or struggling to find their place in the world. With Biblical truth woven throughout the storyline, North’s journey reminded me that sometimes the smallest actions make the greatest impact.

“Maybe that’s what happens when you lose something. It makes you see things differently.” ~ Dianne Beck

I was impressed with Dianne Beck’s writing and creativity. Although there were a few too many bird facts and some sections that could’ve been explored further, Finding True North had good plot points and an ongoing conflict that captivated my attention. One of my favorite characters was North’s sister, Aria, whose infectious passion for life left a lasting impression on me. As I read her scenes, I often thought of the famous Dr. Seuss quote, “Why fit in when you’re born to stand out?” Aria’s joy and passion for living life on her own terms serve as an inspiration for us all.

“She is the beautiful solo in this large piece of music I call life.“ ~ Dianne Beck

*Thank you, Dianne Beck, for providing me with a copy of this book to give an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

Click here to read more book reviews by Inspire-Truth

[Becca Hope · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this novel. It’s such a sweet story about a girl finding her true self, but also finding her true self in Scripture. North is ashamed of her name, her family, and her life in general. She wants to be cool and to be recognized for her singing. She’s tired of being made fun of, of being associated with her sister, Aria, and of her dad and his hoarding problem.

There’s much about this book I enjoyed. North is a character that I feel many could relate to. And while fiction, I’m sure her story is somewhat similar to many people’s reality. I also loved the themes of faith weaved throughout the book, and how Beck ends on such an encouraging and hopeful note.

My favorite part of the book, however, are the characters themselves. North, of course, but also her friends–Ronnie and Matthew. They have such good hearts that look out for North and her sister, Aria, who was my all-time favorite character. My heart ached for her, but she had such a positive outlook on life, never giving up on her parents, always encouraging her sister, and having such a sweet, childlike faith that I admire and strive for.

I’d highly recommend this book to young adult girls. I’ll be on the lookout for other Dianne Beck novels and will also try to pick up her already published book, Sticks and Stones.

I had received a copy of the book as part of the Celebrate Lit Blogging Team and was required to give an honest review.

[Leonard Gladden · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book!

I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this, to be honest. I'm not a huge fan of much of Christian fiction. Many authors (in my opinion only!) seem to be geared more for dropping Bible verses and "witnessing" without any regard to how or where it comes in the story. It's why I prefer CF authors who are more nuanced, such as Rachel Starr Thomson or C. S. Lewis.

Dianne Beck has found a way to weave Scripture and testimony naturally into her storytelling, and it's amazing. I think by putting the many of the Bible quotes into the dialogue of an important side character, it felt closer to the story, even integral, as the protagonist moves in response to the events unfolding in her life.

Speaking of characters, this is one of the most interesting group I've read. By setting the story in the 1970s, we see issues through the lens of a society that hadn't labeled or diagnosed certain things. They resonate. Deeply. Because even if one doesn't have characters with these particular struggles in their families, we know them from our lives.

This is a supremely satisfying book. It's classified as YA, but readers of all ages will enjoy it. For teens, it's part spiritual journey, part time travel as they learn about things from that era. For those close to the era, like me, it's both nostalgic and emotional. Can't wait to put this in my school's library!

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a young adult fiction title. It’s also a Christian fiction novel. I’m not saying that to say you can’t read it if you’re not a young adult because it is a really good read whether you’re young or not. I think everyone will enjoy the plight of North Carolina.

At first, when reading the book I wondered why. Why would she have that name? What kind of parent would name their child that? But also if you look around at the names of celebrities kids today then yeah okay I can see it. But I’m not in favor of weird names. I say that as I’ve used Gaelic names for half my children, so maybe I am? Or at least traditional heritage names maybe?

North Carolina decides to change her name She is now Carol. Along the way to trying to find herself and who she truly is things go wrong and she has to decide if the image she wants or the life she has are truly what she needs and wants and what is best for her.

Very good read with some great lessons to be taught.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[Cover Lover Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Finding True North,” is a captivating Christian YA coming-of-age novel that left me enchanted from cover to cover. The story weaves nostalgia, faith, and the trials of growing up into a beautifully written narrative.

North, the main character, is both complex and relatable, making it easy to empathize with her journey. As she navigates the ups and downs of adolescence, I am reminded of my own youthful experiences and the universal desire to fit in and be accepted.

The memorable cast of characters each bring their own depth and dimension to the story, and the well-crafted plot is thoroughly engaging. The elements of faith, and scripture references make this tale especially inspiring. This story is truly worth reading and one you won’t want to end.

First Line: After the three-mile trek home from Sage Hill Middle School in the near ninety-degree heat, I stood at the edge of our walkway and wished I felt relieved to be home.
Genre: Christian YA, Coming of Age
Author: Dianne Beck
Page Count: 291
Reading Age: 13+

#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I appreciated several aspects of Finding True North by Dianne Beck - the feelings North had at having a sister who was “different” than the other kids, the desire to “re-make” oneself when switching schools, the way the relationship between a black teen and a white teen was “normalized” (I don’t think that happened much in the 70’s), and the prevalence of a character with autism. I also appreciated that it was the character with autism who kept pointing the family to the Bible. I think teens who read Finding True North will be able to see and understand people a little better once they read the book.
Set in 1974 Finding True North qualifies as an historical novel. Having been alive at that time some of the things did not ring historically true for my experience. I’m not saying the events weren’t possible - they just weren’t something I was aware of. I don’t recall hearing talk of “autism.” I also don’t recall hearing about medical specialists who were female. Maybe someone who is a little older than me can verify the authenticity of these aspects of the story.

I received a complimentary copy of Finding True North. This is my honest review.

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding True North by Dianne Beck is a work of Young Adult fiction. The story, set in the 1970s, centers around a 14-year-old girl named North Carolina Simon and her family. Being a teenager is enough for anyone, but North has to deal with more than most. Her father is a hoarder. Her mother is an eccentric artist. Her older sister deals with an autism diagnosis.

An embarrassing middle school incident causes her to change her name and personality when she enters high school. Dianne Beck does a wonderful job illustrating the heartache of growing up. She also illustrates how finding our true north allows North to embrace her name and family and discover what is truly important.

I loved how her real friends stood by her even when she did not particularly stand by them. Her sister’s disappearance and then discovery allow this family to grow and discover what matters.

So, if you want a wonderful Young Adult book, check out Finding True North by Dianne Beck. I definitely recommend it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding True North, by Dianne Beck is a powerful story of a teen age girl growing up with a hoarding father who can't hold down a job. This is a nicely written story that deals with the delicate subject of hoarding and how it affects not only the hoarder, but also their family. It also shows how autism affect the family. This great story was at times hard for me to read. Especially when the mother left and North had to step in to help her special needs sister and take over the household duties. The story shows how the hoarder struggles with their attachment to stuff. This is such a good, realistic story. I felt for North as a young teen trying to fit in despite how the community looks upon her father and sister. I admire her strength, not only with keeping the home and family together, but also striking out to change herself and try to follow her dream. I enjoyed the character of her sister, even though she deals with autism, she comes across as an intelligent, carefree, loving person.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

[Gail Hollingsworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delightful story by a new to me author. Brought back a few memories from my teenage years. North Carolina Simon hates her name. Growing up in the 1970s, she is trying to change everything about her. She has a strange family including her older autistic sister. She can’t wait to graduate from eighth grade and move on to high school where she plans to reinvent herself. With a changed name, redesigned clothes and cut hair she looks forward to her first day.
She finds out things don’t always go as you plan and it takes a life changing situation for her to realize what’s really important.
Even as a grandmother I found out some things I needed to be reminded of in my own life. This would be an excellent book for any young person to read and heed. I loved the birds, the singing, the purity of North’s sister Aria but above all the scripture refresh, especially the Psalm references.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit but was not required to write a review.

[Deana Dick · Rating 4 out of 5]

I know exactly how North feels when it comes to names. I have never liked my name and wanted to change it since I was little. North is growing up in the 1970s just like I did. Things were changing and opinions were rampant as North tries to figure out who she is and what she wants to do with her life. The author does a great job of developing her character and allowing readers to get to know North better as well as other characters in the book. The faith thread is evident in the story and helps the characters in making hard decisions.

With temptations, bullies, believing in yourself and dealing with a family that is not perfect, I loved following North as she maneuvers her way through life. There are some emotional moments that made me want to go help North but her determination was encouraging. Great story for young adults and adults who love a story that stirs your emotions and builds your faith.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Nora St Laurent · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a wonderfully written narrative made up of rich, well-rounded characters, a gripping plot, and a motivational message. It's entertaining to read, and the references to the '70s made me smile.

The reader's interest will be immediately piqued by this tale, characters and setting. This is a sweet coming-of-age story with a natural spiritual thread. It’s a time when seeking acceptance and blending in are key goals, this message of acceptance is excellent. Accepting oneself, others, and one's circumstances can be challenging.

Disclosure Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog

[Mary Hake · Rating 5 out of 5]

This remarkable story spoke to my heart. It contains so many elements that add to the tension in the struggling Simon family, in which a young teen (the main character with a name that adds to her frustration, North Carolina) has to try to keep the household functioning. She has her own hangup with panicking when singing in public, although her dream is to sing with a band. Add to this her older sister, who has autism, an unpredictable mother, who is an artist, and a father, whose hoarding was never resolved in the novel, and North’s life spins out of control. An atypical coming of age drama, this has appeal for both teens and adults. The author portrayed all the unique, quirky characters in a realistic manner along with a powerful plot that focuses on relationships and the troubles they can face. I certainly will look for her other books to read. It would be great for a book club to discuss. I received a complimentary copy of Finding True North. This is my honest review.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding True North is my first experience with Dianne Beck’s writing. After reading this story, it will not be the last. I loved getting to know North / Carol. As a teen, she is having a hard time finding herself and what world she belongs in. I liked watching her grow, learning some life lessons, and finding out what is most important. The author does a wonderful job on creating a beautiful and powerful tale that so many readers are able to relate to and connect with.

I am giving Finding True North five stars. I believe readers who enjoy reading inspiring young adult stories. I would be interested in reading more books from Dianne Beck in the future.

I received a digital copy of Dianne Beck’s Finding True North from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

[Connie Hill · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Thoughts


Finding True North is a young adult fiction story that is written by Dianne Beck. This book is beautifully written story about finding yourself. North Carolina despises her name. She deals with a lot. Her dad is a hoarder. Her sister has autism. Her mom an artist. She decides when she enters high school that she wants everyone to call her Carol.

She goes through a lot of changes to try and fit in. She soon learns that it all comes at a cost. Her sister disappears.

The author brings to life a popular decade. The story is well written. The characters are relatable. Thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.

[Stacy Bosco · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book, which swept me away from the first paragraph. The title character faces an array of difficulties. Her father’s a hoarder, her beloved older sister is “different,” her mother is not up to the challenges of her own life. On top of that, she gets picked on at school. However, North has a great singing voice, two true friends and dreams of making her life better. She faces twists, turns and tests as the story unfolds— a story compelling, real and with surprises along the way. A good read that addresses important themes of friendship, faith, loyalty, and yes, being true to one’s self.

[C. Gonzales · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding True North has characters and situations that are entirely relatable. The entire book is self aware in a refreshing way.

This novel is so exquisitely written. The descriptions the author uses are not only masterful but also make everything in this book come alive.
Overall, Finding True North is an exceptional novel that shines a light on being true to ones self and what it means to accept someone as they truly are, and that the most important person we need to impress is ourselves.
It's the perfect precursor to have you wanting to pick up Sticks & Stones.

[Alice Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is absolutely fantastic! It has so much heart and wonderful messages about kindness, friendship, family, and staying true to yourself. I loved the characters and missed them when I finished the book. I didn't want it to end! I want to hear more about their lives. The author's voice shines just as beautifully as in her other book, Sticks and Stones! I highly recommend this book and can't wait to read more from this talented author.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The theme of “Finding True North” by Dianne Beck is Psalms 91:4. This story is about being true to yourself. It covers subjects like artistic and hoarding. And I suppose some readers wouldn’t call what the mother did as selfishness I certainly do. This book deals with hard subjects but the ending was an inspiration.

I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

[R.K. Emery · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely devoured this book. There are ups and downs, it's got a great backdrop and the author is great about writing in a descriptive way that paints a picture in the readers head.
Another great point is that I would say it is very well-paced. it really gives just enough along the way to keep the reader flipping pages.

It's a solid story, has great characters, and really spoke to me.

[Nuzka Dya · Rating 5 out of 5]

“𝘑𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘸𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨; 𝘱𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘱𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘥. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘵 𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘳, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯'𝘵 𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘵 𝘢 𝘣𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘱𝘢𝘱𝘦𝘳. 𝘚𝘰 𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘨𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨.”

Finding True North
By @beck_dianne
Genre: YA Contemporary Fiction
Pages Count: 291

My Thoughts 💭
Since the story takes place in 1974, the words' portrayal was incredibly calming. Even though I haven't even been born yet,but I've often wondered what it would be like if I could use a time machine to travel back in time and experience what it was like to live in that period of time.

So, this novel fulfilled a dream of mine.
Almost everything about this novel is incredible. the growth of the characters, the friendships that last, and the relationships between her and her sister, Aria. The main character, North Carolina, encountered numerous problems, began with her connection with her parents, a severe sense of insecurity, and so forth. However, they all had happy endings in the end. The depiction of autism was vivid, and it made me aware of how difficult it is to deal with such a thing. I gained a lot of knowledge from this book because it was so genuine, and I wholeheartedly suggest it to all readers. I think it's ideal for all classes!

Big thanks to the author and @rabtbooktours for the opportunity to read and review this amazing book!!
I apologize for my delay;)

[Gina Stamper · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so interesting and inspiring it kept me glued to its pages.
I loved the way it was written and how the author paid great attention to the details of the time and place.
I enjoyed the characters in this story and their journeys.
This is a book that is very involved: deep, meaningful messages that must be absorbed but ultimately the message is clear and will stick with you.

[Heidi Lara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was not aware of this author previous to reading this but I will definitely be following her in the future as her characters are delightfully satisfying. I wanted to keep reading to find out what was happening next. I really enjoyed the Scripture references she included as well, which I generally find distracting in my reading if I can be honest, but it was done very well in this instance.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sensitive coming-of-age story of a girl who feels trapped in an unusual family. It is set in 1970's era Los Angeles. She feels the pull of the popular crowd, while also feeling the pull of staying loyal to her family. This book opened my eyes to the unique struggles of neurodivergent families. It took me back to the awkwardness of early teen years, and inspired me with its ending.

[Mx Phoebe · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a young adult story filled with angst about a family breaking apart while a young girl is trying to separate herself from them. Dianne Beck intertwines diversity and autism prejudices with Carol’s hope to be popular and seen. Mixed in are verses from the Bible, violence, and verbal abuse from classmates. This is at times an uncomfortable read, but a worthwhile one.

I received a free copy of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.

[Arlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book! I feel like I know the characters. It’s so good

[DL (Donna) Rudd · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a relatable book, about teens in the 70's.
As one who grew cup in the 70's as a kid, I relate to the characters, the emotions and fragile minds of being in school, competing, feeling inept, jealous, concerned and comparison with the other ''girls". Dianne is a new author to me, and I connect with her style of writing. I will recommend her books, and enjoy reading them myself.
This is a great book for kids / girls that are grade school into high school.