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Chasing AllieCat
Dumped with relatives in a small Minnesota town for the summer, Sadie Lester is relying on her mountain bike to save her from total boredom. Then she meets Allie, a spiky-haired off-road mountain biker who's training for a major race. Allie leads Sadie and Joe, a cute fellow cyclist, up and down Mount Kato, and the three become close friends. But the exhilarating rush comes to a halt when they find a priest in the woods, badly beaten and near death. After calling for help, Allie disappears from their lives. As they search for Allie and try to find out why she left so suddenly, Sadie and Joe discover more about Allie's past, including her connection to the priest. Only on the day of the big race does Sadie finally learn the complete, startling truth about Allie―and the terrible secret that forced her into hiding.
A Junior Library Guild Selection
"Using an authentic adolescent voice with an observant sense of humor, Davis creates an engaging, increasingly gritty (also brutal) bike-centric mystery (and romance)...a suspenseful ride." ― KIRKUS REVIEWS "Davis constructs a succinct, compelling story that combines romance, suspense, and the theme of overcoming challenges. The strong sense of place, character development, and love triangle dynamics should engage cycling enthusiasts as well as a broader audience."
― PUBLISHERS WEEKLY "A wonderful, tough, and totally believable story . . . Hang on tight. This is quite a ride."―Chris Crutcher, author of Angry Management "Dangerous"―TERRY DAVIS, AUTHOR OF VISION QUEST "I love Chasing AllieCat . It's proof again of what a tremendous writer Becky Davis is, smart, touching and generous in spirit. She creates in Sadie, Allie, Joe, Siren and these other characters a magnficent group of survivors, that everyone will love getting to know!"
―TERRY TRUEMAN, AUTHOR OF THE PRINTZ HONOR NOVEL STUCK IN NEUTRAL
A Junior Library Guild Selection
"Using an authentic adolescent voice with an observant sense of humor, Davis creates an engaging, increasingly gritty (also brutal) bike-centric mystery (and romance)...a suspenseful ride." ― KIRKUS REVIEWS "Davis constructs a succinct, compelling story that combines romance, suspense, and the theme of overcoming challenges. The strong sense of place, character development, and love triangle dynamics should engage cycling enthusiasts as well as a broader audience."
― PUBLISHERS WEEKLY "A wonderful, tough, and totally believable story . . . Hang on tight. This is quite a ride."―Chris Crutcher, author of Angry Management "Dangerous"―TERRY DAVIS, AUTHOR OF VISION QUEST "I love Chasing AllieCat . It's proof again of what a tremendous writer Becky Davis is, smart, touching and generous in spirit. She creates in Sadie, Allie, Joe, Siren and these other characters a magnficent group of survivors, that everyone will love getting to know!"
―TERRY TRUEMAN, AUTHOR OF THE PRINTZ HONOR NOVEL STUCK IN NEUTRAL
288 pages, Paperback
First published February 1, 2011
4 people are currently reading
281 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Fjelland Davis
14 books31 followersRebecca Fjelland Davis is a novelist and children's book author who lives in Minnesota. She is currently an instructor at South Central College in Mankato, where she teaches Composition, Literature and Film, and Humanities.
Becky grew up on a farm outside of Huxley, Iowa. She graduated from Waldorf College, from St. Cloud State University, and received her Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from Minnesota State University, Mankato.
She currently lives in the country near Mankato with her husband and Newfoundland dog Freya. Besides writing and teaching, Becky rides her bike a few thousand miles a year, has bonfires with her friends, feeds the birds, and walks Freya on the prairie and in the woods.
She also hauls students on grand adventures, to places like South Africa or art museums in Minneapolis.
Becky grew up on a farm outside of Huxley, Iowa. She graduated from Waldorf College, from St. Cloud State University, and received her Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from Minnesota State University, Mankato.
She currently lives in the country near Mankato with her husband and Newfoundland dog Freya. Besides writing and teaching, Becky rides her bike a few thousand miles a year, has bonfires with her friends, feeds the birds, and walks Freya on the prairie and in the woods.
She also hauls students on grand adventures, to places like South Africa or art museums in Minneapolis.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
January 16, 2011
It's as simple as this: Chasing AllieCat blew me away in the best way possible, and I have a very strong feeling it will do the same to many other YA book lovers out there, because this book simply has it all: strong characters, a mysterious plot that will keep the reader guessing to the very last page, romance, and plenty more!
Chasing AllieCat tells the story of Sadie, a girl who has officially been left in a Minnesota town along with her younger brother for the summer while their parents go to Africa. At first, Sadie fears that the summer will be boring with a capital B, because not only does Sadie's aunt want her to babysit her younger cousins for the majority of it, but she barley knows anyone besides her family. But everything changes the day Allie (aka AllieCat) comes into her life. Allie is like no one Sadie's meet before. She's fearless, witty, and strong, a girl you would want on your side no matter what. Better yet, Allie loves mountain biking as much if not more than Sadie. Soon enough, this summer is looking promising to Sadie, especially when a very cut and fellow cyclist named Joe lands on her radar. But with Allie comes secrets...secrets that could mean danger and death if Joe, Sadie, and Allie aren't careful enough. Though, when Allie goes missing, Sadie and Joe know something is terribly wrong, so off they go on a mission to save their lost friend, but will they before it's too late? More importantly, what exactly is Allie hiding from them? And will Sadie and Joe every get their chance at a summer romance? Only time will tell in this fast paced tale about how far two friends will go to save a friend that needs than more than they even know.
There is so much I love about this book and one of the things I love most is the characters.
First of all, main character Sadie is the perfect pick of a narrator of this story, because not only is she easy to relate to but she's fearless, brave, and nonjudgmental, making her someone I liked from the start. Better yet, I loved reading about her friendship with Allie and Joe. Allie, Joe, and Sadie form such an incredible bond throughout the pages of Chasing AllieCat over their bad pasts (Allie and Joe mostly) and their love of mountain biking (all three), and best of all, these are three characters who managed to be their for each other time and time again, and constantly built their friendship up in a way that was believable, leaving this to be the best part of the book, no doubt about it. I also loved how Rebecca used the character's friendship to bring up several intriguing questions within the pages. Like, how far would you go to save a friend in need? More importantly would you be able to be there for someone even when the situation is something like you've never experienced before, something so bad that it makes you're stomach churn? It was very thought provoking and well done.
The plot and mysteries at this story's heart were even better. I loved how Rebecca Fjelland Davis constantly had the reader guessing about what exactly happened to Allie to whether or not Sadie and Joe would be able to find Allie to whether or not they all would be able to save the day before it was too late. All of these questions always kept me on my toes and guessing what would occur next.
Lastly, Rebecca Fjelland Davis proves herself to be a fantastic writer within the pages of this one. I couldn't get over how amazing of job she did creating the characters and the plot lines, and best of all, this story has left me craving more stories by her, because I have a feeling they'll be pretty great if Chasing AllieCat is any indicator.
In all, Chasing AllieCat is spectacular, thought provoking, and intense, a read that I just can't stop thinking about, and one I could never describe just how amazing it was. So, read this book. Buy it, borrow it, I don't care just find a way to get your hands on a copy. Because if I know one thing, it's that this book is simply fantastic, and I hope you feel the same once you read it!
Grade: A+
Chasing AllieCat tells the story of Sadie, a girl who has officially been left in a Minnesota town along with her younger brother for the summer while their parents go to Africa. At first, Sadie fears that the summer will be boring with a capital B, because not only does Sadie's aunt want her to babysit her younger cousins for the majority of it, but she barley knows anyone besides her family. But everything changes the day Allie (aka AllieCat) comes into her life. Allie is like no one Sadie's meet before. She's fearless, witty, and strong, a girl you would want on your side no matter what. Better yet, Allie loves mountain biking as much if not more than Sadie. Soon enough, this summer is looking promising to Sadie, especially when a very cut and fellow cyclist named Joe lands on her radar. But with Allie comes secrets...secrets that could mean danger and death if Joe, Sadie, and Allie aren't careful enough. Though, when Allie goes missing, Sadie and Joe know something is terribly wrong, so off they go on a mission to save their lost friend, but will they before it's too late? More importantly, what exactly is Allie hiding from them? And will Sadie and Joe every get their chance at a summer romance? Only time will tell in this fast paced tale about how far two friends will go to save a friend that needs than more than they even know.
There is so much I love about this book and one of the things I love most is the characters.
First of all, main character Sadie is the perfect pick of a narrator of this story, because not only is she easy to relate to but she's fearless, brave, and nonjudgmental, making her someone I liked from the start. Better yet, I loved reading about her friendship with Allie and Joe. Allie, Joe, and Sadie form such an incredible bond throughout the pages of Chasing AllieCat over their bad pasts (Allie and Joe mostly) and their love of mountain biking (all three), and best of all, these are three characters who managed to be their for each other time and time again, and constantly built their friendship up in a way that was believable, leaving this to be the best part of the book, no doubt about it. I also loved how Rebecca used the character's friendship to bring up several intriguing questions within the pages. Like, how far would you go to save a friend in need? More importantly would you be able to be there for someone even when the situation is something like you've never experienced before, something so bad that it makes you're stomach churn? It was very thought provoking and well done.
The plot and mysteries at this story's heart were even better. I loved how Rebecca Fjelland Davis constantly had the reader guessing about what exactly happened to Allie to whether or not Sadie and Joe would be able to find Allie to whether or not they all would be able to save the day before it was too late. All of these questions always kept me on my toes and guessing what would occur next.
Lastly, Rebecca Fjelland Davis proves herself to be a fantastic writer within the pages of this one. I couldn't get over how amazing of job she did creating the characters and the plot lines, and best of all, this story has left me craving more stories by her, because I have a feeling they'll be pretty great if Chasing AllieCat is any indicator.
In all, Chasing AllieCat is spectacular, thought provoking, and intense, a read that I just can't stop thinking about, and one I could never describe just how amazing it was. So, read this book. Buy it, borrow it, I don't care just find a way to get your hands on a copy. Because if I know one thing, it's that this book is simply fantastic, and I hope you feel the same once you read it!
Grade: A+
March 31, 2011
I can sum up Chasing AllieCat in three words: exciting, mysterious, and completely believable. Rebecca Fjelland Davis has taken a dull summer out in the boons and made it a life-changing experience for three teenagers.
Sadie is a fantastic narrator. The entire story is told from her first-person perspective, and we, the readers, do not lack for any visual descriptions or her opinions on what his happening - we are always in the know, although we don't know anything until Sadie does. One of the chief reasons that I like Sadie so much is because she is a laid back, take-people-as-they-are person. That doesn't mean that she doesn't have her opinions on people or doesn't gripe when she has to deal with them, but she accepts it, moves on and works past it. I particularly like that she always was offended and stuck up for Allie when she thought Joe was making very un-PC remarks about her, particularly since it is evident from the get-go that she is attracted to him! Like I said, she is easy going on people, but she sticks to her own opinions and is loyal to the people who have shown trust in her. I like a character who isn't wishy-washy or a fair-weathered friend.
Allie is a prickly type of friendly from the get-go. She is uncompromising and tough, but not necessarily a bully, although sometimes she can come off that way, particularly with Joe. She genuinely wants to see people be their best and live the best way possible, which can cause her to be abrasive to people who are not up to code. Joe, on the other, hand, is a nice guy, although not my type of guy. In an odd twist, he is the nephew of Allie's aunt-by-marriage. Like Sadie, he has been sent to live with relatives for the summer. In his case, it's to escape the aftermath of a personal tragedy. While I never bought the 'tough-guy' persona that he is originally present to us with, I did appreciate that his overall kindness and that he was working though some demons of his own. This is a summer of growth and healing for him, and riding through the fear helps him as much as it does Sadie and Allie.
All three characters have an absolute passion for mountain biking and all three also shoulder tough burdens. You get the idea from the beginning that Allie in particular comes from a sad and troubled background, but I had no clue just how bad it was until the end when the cause for her disappearance is revealed. Davis wrote an exceptional plot in this book, and specifically with Allie's story, I think her skill really shines. Throughout the book, we are given just enough clues and incidents that lead us to believe that certain possibilities were afoot, but you aren't sure which one it is until the end. She also has a remarkable balance between this being a book about friendship and coming-of-age, and also being about Very Serious Subject Matter. As the latter is never revealed until towards the end, I won't share that with you, but it's a tough thing to bear, and Davis uses very clear language when it's discussed, leaving us in no doubt of the reasons behind Allie's disappearance.
I really enjoyed this book. Although I had a little trouble getting into it at the very beginning, that quickly passed, and then I didn't want to put it down. Davis' characters are distinct, her writing simple, vivid and descriptive, the plot fast-paced, and the mystery of Allie keeps your attention. There is one, tiny aspect of the plot that I struggled with, but I will say it doesn't hinder my appreciation of the book or my recommendation of it. Chasing AllieCat is a solid read, a great book about three unlikely comrades who share a summer that teaches them about what living is, and that fear is something to be conquered, not accepted.
Sadie is a fantastic narrator. The entire story is told from her first-person perspective, and we, the readers, do not lack for any visual descriptions or her opinions on what his happening - we are always in the know, although we don't know anything until Sadie does. One of the chief reasons that I like Sadie so much is because she is a laid back, take-people-as-they-are person. That doesn't mean that she doesn't have her opinions on people or doesn't gripe when she has to deal with them, but she accepts it, moves on and works past it. I particularly like that she always was offended and stuck up for Allie when she thought Joe was making very un-PC remarks about her, particularly since it is evident from the get-go that she is attracted to him! Like I said, she is easy going on people, but she sticks to her own opinions and is loyal to the people who have shown trust in her. I like a character who isn't wishy-washy or a fair-weathered friend.
Allie is a prickly type of friendly from the get-go. She is uncompromising and tough, but not necessarily a bully, although sometimes she can come off that way, particularly with Joe. She genuinely wants to see people be their best and live the best way possible, which can cause her to be abrasive to people who are not up to code. Joe, on the other, hand, is a nice guy, although not my type of guy. In an odd twist, he is the nephew of Allie's aunt-by-marriage. Like Sadie, he has been sent to live with relatives for the summer. In his case, it's to escape the aftermath of a personal tragedy. While I never bought the 'tough-guy' persona that he is originally present to us with, I did appreciate that his overall kindness and that he was working though some demons of his own. This is a summer of growth and healing for him, and riding through the fear helps him as much as it does Sadie and Allie.
All three characters have an absolute passion for mountain biking and all three also shoulder tough burdens. You get the idea from the beginning that Allie in particular comes from a sad and troubled background, but I had no clue just how bad it was until the end when the cause for her disappearance is revealed. Davis wrote an exceptional plot in this book, and specifically with Allie's story, I think her skill really shines. Throughout the book, we are given just enough clues and incidents that lead us to believe that certain possibilities were afoot, but you aren't sure which one it is until the end. She also has a remarkable balance between this being a book about friendship and coming-of-age, and also being about Very Serious Subject Matter. As the latter is never revealed until towards the end, I won't share that with you, but it's a tough thing to bear, and Davis uses very clear language when it's discussed, leaving us in no doubt of the reasons behind Allie's disappearance.
I really enjoyed this book. Although I had a little trouble getting into it at the very beginning, that quickly passed, and then I didn't want to put it down. Davis' characters are distinct, her writing simple, vivid and descriptive, the plot fast-paced, and the mystery of Allie keeps your attention. There is one, tiny aspect of the plot that I struggled with, but I will say it doesn't hinder my appreciation of the book or my recommendation of it. Chasing AllieCat is a solid read, a great book about three unlikely comrades who share a summer that teaches them about what living is, and that fear is something to be conquered, not accepted.
November 29, 2015
Chasing alliecat has blown my mind. This book is an absolutely amazing mystery and the author took setting, plot, and the characters to a new height. I loved how this wasn't your normal easy-going book that's predictable. This book made me want to read and read and I just couldn't stop. I liked how the author took the setting of Minnesota instead of California or a place that is well known. Also, how the author made the characters all different yet relate over bike racing. I loved how that was the thing that brought the characters together, it wasn't them all doing drugs or a teenage love story. The main character Sadie was a well characterized part of this story and it pulled me in. The way the author explain Sadie rush for racing also pulled me in. Then the twist of the priest in the woods made me happy because I thought I would just be bike racing but this twist made me re-think so I went back and read from the beginning and I saw little foreshadows that the author put in that connected with the priest plot.
August 15, 2013
I would definitely recommend this to teens looking for a good mystery book (or coming of age/romance). It's pretty simple (like most YA books, I guess), but I liked the mystery surrounding Allie and I really loved that the girls in this book were strong and tomboyish. It felt really modern in that way, as well as the teens' view of homosexuality. I didn't love it, but I don't think I'm the ideal reader for this book either. Preteen and teen girls with a tomboyish side would probably really love it.
Find more book reviews at A Quick Red Fox.
Find more book reviews at A Quick Red Fox.
September 27, 2011
Chasing AllieCat is an exciting story with lots of mystery and action--and great sports sequences! You get to know a wonderful group of characters and care for them--and fear for them. I loved it. Chasing AllieCat is a blood-pumping, heart-thumping ride!
August 16, 2025
This was an exciting story featuring middle to older teens who participate in mountain bike riding and racing. I admired the work ethic, tenacity, and loyalty of the main character and narrator, Sadie Lester. The book follows Sadie as she, with her brother, join their aunt, uncle, and cousins in Minnesota for the summer through family gatherings, riding her bike, making friends, and working a summer job. The tone of the book changes from typical 16-year-old issues/concerns to concerns about friend and why they were being harassed by some jerks, to the much more serious issues (not mentioned in more detail to avoid spoilers). Pacing was good and tension continued to build throughout with the suspense ramping up until the resolution at the end. Characters were believable and the type of people one would meet in real life. While I would not classify this as a coming-of-age novel, Sadie and her friends did a fair amount of growing up over the course of the summer. Would recommend to older teens, those that enjoy stories about young people, and those interested in mountain biking.
July 11, 2023
I originally started this book because a friend had said that is was based on a true story where I’m from. Before I finished it, I found out that it’s just based on a true place, not a true story. I was definitely a little bummed but kept going.
It’s a good read, but not what I expected. Good YA story, but honestly there was so much back story and middle part that there wasn’t a whole lot left for the end. I feel like they could’ve done like an end of summer recap or even end of year recap just to tell us how all of the characters lives really ended up.
Overall a decent book, but not in my top ten.
It’s a good read, but not what I expected. Good YA story, but honestly there was so much back story and middle part that there wasn’t a whole lot left for the end. I feel like they could’ve done like an end of summer recap or even end of year recap just to tell us how all of the characters lives really ended up.
Overall a decent book, but not in my top ten.
January 6, 2025
I thought this book was pretty decent. The writing really draws you in, and, as a mountain biker myself who has ridden Mount Kato, I enjoyed being able to connect to Sadie. I thought she was a bit bland as a character, but Joe and Allie weren't, so that made the story much more interesting than I thought it would be at first. I was a bit weirded out by Allie and Joe's romance, even though they weren't technically cousins. The author could've easily made him a cute boy who lived in Arizona and was in Minnesota for some other reason and it wouldn't have any effect on his character. Overall, pretty good book though.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 27, 2025
The story is about Sadie's summer. She meets Allie and Joe and becomes friends with them. Allie pushes her to take up mountain bike racing. There is also a great deal of mystery surrounding Allie that has to be uncovered.
The audiobook was narrated by the author and was a little difficult to follow along at first since she was obviously not a professional. I did get used to it gradually and then got pulled into the story. I grew invested in what would happen to Sadie, Joe and especially poor Allie. The story is a bit sad with all Allie has been through. There is also some cursing if that is something that bothers you. Overall, I did enjoy it.
The audiobook was narrated by the author and was a little difficult to follow along at first since she was obviously not a professional. I did get used to it gradually and then got pulled into the story. I grew invested in what would happen to Sadie, Joe and especially poor Allie. The story is a bit sad with all Allie has been through. There is also some cursing if that is something that bothers you. Overall, I did enjoy it.
September 15, 2025
First anyone who writes a book deserves props for their hard work!! With me saying that, I really found 80% of this book boring. The last 20% was the interesting part. It dragged out and there really was nothing special about this story. Also with it being an audiobook, the person reading it did not have an engaging voice to keep my attention as well. I would suggest rerecording it with someone else narrating and hopefully they have a more entertaining voice to follow along with.
December 10, 2017
I give this book 4 1/2 stars. Fast moving book about three teens and all the things that happen to them when they become friends.
November 8, 2024
Great page turner fun that it takes place in MN. Topics are PG -13.
July 3, 2023
3.5 Stars - Book was free from my High School Library. Trigger warning list offered at the bottom of this review.
This is an interesting summer read that I think is good for older teens/young adults. Or just adults who are curious about this book.
The overall story if very believable/real. While listed a 'Realistic Fiction', there's also a hint of 'Mystery', this story is feels like something you'd read about in your local newspaper and think 'Wow, I can't believe that something that insane could happen in such a small town'.
All the characters are believable, the situation is unfortunate and believable, for the most part all the characters a likable. This was just an overall good book. Nothing really stands out on needing to re-read it. But a one time read was enjoyable.
Trigger Warning List: Death/Murder (both human and animal), use of drugs, S**ual Assault.
This is an interesting summer read that I think is good for older teens/young adults. Or just adults who are curious about this book.
The overall story if very believable/real. While listed a 'Realistic Fiction', there's also a hint of 'Mystery', this story is feels like something you'd read about in your local newspaper and think 'Wow, I can't believe that something that insane could happen in such a small town'.
All the characters are believable, the situation is unfortunate and believable, for the most part all the characters a likable. This was just an overall good book. Nothing really stands out on needing to re-read it. But a one time read was enjoyable.
Trigger Warning List: Death/Murder (both human and animal), use of drugs, S**ual Assault.
October 9, 2011
Originally reviewed on my blog, Books from Bleh to Basically Amazing.
Chasing Alliecat by Rebecca Fjelland Davis is the story of Sadie, Allie and Joe, three teenagers who live to mountain bike. Sadie's parent's have a strange relationship, and after their divorce, Sadie's mom sends Sadie and her sister to stay with Sadie's aunt so that she can go to Egypt to do archeological research with her ex-husband. Joe comes to stay with his uncle, (the husband of Sadie's aunt) because he is having a hard time adjusting to life without his twin. He's a little... damaged, and his parents are hoping a change of scenery would do him good. Allie is a mystery. She lives in this tiny Minnesota town and she's hurting.
Sadie is still a beginner as far as mountain biking goes, and she has decided that this summer she is going to start competing in actual races. Joe has raced a few times before, and is above the beginner stage, but still has a lot to learn (like smoking is really bad for your lungs). And Allie? Allie's just about a professional. She competes in the expert class races, and she wins. Regularly. I'm about to make a comment that is going to prove I think about things too much, but I felt a little bit like their level of biking expertise directly correlates to how bad the inner demons come at them. I liked that. To me, it's a subtle way of being able to let the pain and the confusion onto the page. Maybe no one else saw it. Maybe there wasn't really anything about it for me to see. That's okay with me. Pain translates differently for different people.
The main complaint I have with this book, is that Allie was just a little bit too. Too mysterious, too tortured, too aloof, just too much. Because there was just so much to Allie, some aspects of her character fell a little flat for me, and left me thinking that it was included to be included, because it makes for a more dramatic story. I didn't feel like all of it needed to be in there, or if all of it felt essential to the author, some of the issues could have been fleshed out and addressed a little better. Many of them, the way they were handled felt a little like an afterthought. It's vague, I know, but I don't want to spoil anything.
Anyway, other than that, I really enjoyed this book. I thought Sadie and Joe were both awesome characters, and I liked watching them adjust to each other, and get to know each other better. The characters, especially Sadie and Joe are the real core of this story, and they made is believable for me. My favorite parts of the book focused on the biking and the racing. It makes me want to hop on a bike and start trekking all over rural Idaho. It's probably a good thing my bike needs to be tuned up after the long winter here... If I tried to ride even half-way as hardcore as these kids, it would probably kill me. ;)
Overall, I genuinely enjoyed this book. It's a worthwhile story with solid characters who aren't afraid of their pain or their strengths. They do what they gotta do to survive and they keep their head above ground. It's a story worth reading full of characters worth knowing.
Chasing Alliecat by Rebecca Fjelland Davis is the story of Sadie, Allie and Joe, three teenagers who live to mountain bike. Sadie's parent's have a strange relationship, and after their divorce, Sadie's mom sends Sadie and her sister to stay with Sadie's aunt so that she can go to Egypt to do archeological research with her ex-husband. Joe comes to stay with his uncle, (the husband of Sadie's aunt) because he is having a hard time adjusting to life without his twin. He's a little... damaged, and his parents are hoping a change of scenery would do him good. Allie is a mystery. She lives in this tiny Minnesota town and she's hurting.
Sadie is still a beginner as far as mountain biking goes, and she has decided that this summer she is going to start competing in actual races. Joe has raced a few times before, and is above the beginner stage, but still has a lot to learn (like smoking is really bad for your lungs). And Allie? Allie's just about a professional. She competes in the expert class races, and she wins. Regularly. I'm about to make a comment that is going to prove I think about things too much, but I felt a little bit like their level of biking expertise directly correlates to how bad the inner demons come at them. I liked that. To me, it's a subtle way of being able to let the pain and the confusion onto the page. Maybe no one else saw it. Maybe there wasn't really anything about it for me to see. That's okay with me. Pain translates differently for different people.
The main complaint I have with this book, is that Allie was just a little bit too. Too mysterious, too tortured, too aloof, just too much. Because there was just so much to Allie, some aspects of her character fell a little flat for me, and left me thinking that it was included to be included, because it makes for a more dramatic story. I didn't feel like all of it needed to be in there, or if all of it felt essential to the author, some of the issues could have been fleshed out and addressed a little better. Many of them, the way they were handled felt a little like an afterthought. It's vague, I know, but I don't want to spoil anything.
Anyway, other than that, I really enjoyed this book. I thought Sadie and Joe were both awesome characters, and I liked watching them adjust to each other, and get to know each other better. The characters, especially Sadie and Joe are the real core of this story, and they made is believable for me. My favorite parts of the book focused on the biking and the racing. It makes me want to hop on a bike and start trekking all over rural Idaho. It's probably a good thing my bike needs to be tuned up after the long winter here... If I tried to ride even half-way as hardcore as these kids, it would probably kill me. ;)
Overall, I genuinely enjoyed this book. It's a worthwhile story with solid characters who aren't afraid of their pain or their strengths. They do what they gotta do to survive and they keep their head above ground. It's a story worth reading full of characters worth knowing.
April 7, 2011
In terms of realistic fiction, Chasing Alliecat was my first foray into this world in YA fiction. This book hooked its fingers into me and drew me into reading from the very first chapter. If this is what all realistic fiction is like, well please let me say that I'm more than happy to go find some more! I felt so invested in these characters that I loved every minute of this book. Absolutely amazing.
If you are the type of reader who wants their characters to be well developed and drive the plot, this book is for you! Sadie, Joe and Allie are all so different and yet there are similar parts in their lives that draw them together. Like a band of lovable misfits, I had a blast watching them interact. Sadie provides the sensibility, Allie the toughness and Joe the adorable awkwardness. The three of them just meshed so perfectly that I really felt like they were real people. I'd hang with them in a heartbeat.
Their love of mountain biking especially ties them together. I loved the descriptions of the way they felt as they rode. The sheer adrenaline that was described sounds amazing! Reading about how mountain bikers have such respect for nature and their bikes, it really blew me away. How much do we really hear about mountain bikers anyway? I have to say that it was refreshing to see a book about a sport like this. Mountain bikers have always impressed me, but to see younger characters who were so invested? Wow, just wow. You can definitely tell that Rebecca has a passion for this.
Story wise, Chasing Alliecat felt to me like a roller coaster. A wild ride indeed, this book starts out slow and allows you to meet the characters and get to know them. Then all of the sudden things start to happen, the characters are moving at a lightning pace and there are times when you'll forget to breathe. Trust me. The ending of this book especially just blew me away. To say that I loved Allie, Sadie and Joe's story is a bit of an understatement. I'd say more that I actually felt a part of their story. It's so true to life.
Am I being vague? Definitely. I won't give a single part of this book away for you because honestly that would be doing you a disservice my friends. Suffice it to say that this is a fantastic story! Chasing Alliecat has it all. Friendship, romance, mystery and intrigue. You want it, it's there! You'll need to go grab a copy as soon as you can to see what I'm talking about.
If you are the type of reader who wants their characters to be well developed and drive the plot, this book is for you! Sadie, Joe and Allie are all so different and yet there are similar parts in their lives that draw them together. Like a band of lovable misfits, I had a blast watching them interact. Sadie provides the sensibility, Allie the toughness and Joe the adorable awkwardness. The three of them just meshed so perfectly that I really felt like they were real people. I'd hang with them in a heartbeat.
Their love of mountain biking especially ties them together. I loved the descriptions of the way they felt as they rode. The sheer adrenaline that was described sounds amazing! Reading about how mountain bikers have such respect for nature and their bikes, it really blew me away. How much do we really hear about mountain bikers anyway? I have to say that it was refreshing to see a book about a sport like this. Mountain bikers have always impressed me, but to see younger characters who were so invested? Wow, just wow. You can definitely tell that Rebecca has a passion for this.
Story wise, Chasing Alliecat felt to me like a roller coaster. A wild ride indeed, this book starts out slow and allows you to meet the characters and get to know them. Then all of the sudden things start to happen, the characters are moving at a lightning pace and there are times when you'll forget to breathe. Trust me. The ending of this book especially just blew me away. To say that I loved Allie, Sadie and Joe's story is a bit of an understatement. I'd say more that I actually felt a part of their story. It's so true to life.
Am I being vague? Definitely. I won't give a single part of this book away for you because honestly that would be doing you a disservice my friends. Suffice it to say that this is a fantastic story! Chasing Alliecat has it all. Friendship, romance, mystery and intrigue. You want it, it's there! You'll need to go grab a copy as soon as you can to see what I'm talking about.
April 28, 2012
It is summer in Mankato, Minnesota and Sadie is stuck spending it with her Uncle Scout's family. Her only consolation is the mountain bike she brought with her and her goal to enter a race. Then she meets an unlikely friend named Allie and they begin a unique friendship racing through the woods on their bikes. Soon Joe enters Sadie and Allie's life. Joe just moved to Mankato for the summer and now lives in Uncle Scout's very crowded house. The three are fast friends and all begin training for a mountain bike race on the 4th of July. That is, until they find the bloodied and beaten body of a priest in the woods and Allie disappears.
When Allie disappears, Sadie and Joe realize they don't really know her at all, even though they rode together every day. Sadie has no idea where Allie lives and she wouldn't give out her phone number. Allie admitted her father is in prison but she never mentioned her mother. Allie is one powerful, mysterious young woman and Sadie can't help but admire her strength and fortitude but she is really worried. Thus begins the heart pounding race to find Allie and discover the true meaning of friendship.
Chasing Alliecat is a wild ride through the woods where the main characters are chasing a killer, chasing Allie and chasing their dreams. The story is compelling and takes the reader for a daring ride through the pages. The characters are bound to each other through circumstance, become life-long friends and protect each other through life's dangers. In short, they ride through the chicken. They do what they are afraid of, support each other and grow stronger.
Every once in awhile a book comes along where the reader has a lot in common with one of the main characters. Allie is the character that I related to the most and we had so much in common that by the end of the book I was crying. I can't give you all the details because it would spoil the book for you but know that Chasing Alliecat does not shy away from difficult issues.
Chasing Alliecat is a suspenseful mystery and a page turner. My advice is to chase down this book. It would make a great read for the gym while your riding the stationary bike.
When Allie disappears, Sadie and Joe realize they don't really know her at all, even though they rode together every day. Sadie has no idea where Allie lives and she wouldn't give out her phone number. Allie admitted her father is in prison but she never mentioned her mother. Allie is one powerful, mysterious young woman and Sadie can't help but admire her strength and fortitude but she is really worried. Thus begins the heart pounding race to find Allie and discover the true meaning of friendship.
Chasing Alliecat is a wild ride through the woods where the main characters are chasing a killer, chasing Allie and chasing their dreams. The story is compelling and takes the reader for a daring ride through the pages. The characters are bound to each other through circumstance, become life-long friends and protect each other through life's dangers. In short, they ride through the chicken. They do what they are afraid of, support each other and grow stronger.
Every once in awhile a book comes along where the reader has a lot in common with one of the main characters. Allie is the character that I related to the most and we had so much in common that by the end of the book I was crying. I can't give you all the details because it would spoil the book for you but know that Chasing Alliecat does not shy away from difficult issues.
Chasing Alliecat is a suspenseful mystery and a page turner. My advice is to chase down this book. It would make a great read for the gym while your riding the stationary bike.
March 19, 2011
Why I read this: I don't real a lot of realistic fiction, but this one looked intriguing.
Plot: I love the mystery behind Allie when you meet her in the book, how tough she is and how unwilling to reveal any type of contact information to Sadie. It becomes apparent that something is going on pretty much from the start when it comes to Allie. She won't share a lot about herself with Sadie except for her love of riding. When Joe comes along and steals Sadie's attention just a bit, you can feel the tension between the characters.
There were some graphic moments and definitely scary moments in this book that really will shock you. I loved the realistic nature of this book and how it touches on subjects that are not often broached with the finesse that the author managed with her writing. Also, I love a nice, somewhat wrapped up ending and you get some closure with this novel that is much needed.
Characters: I really think it was the characters that made this book. Each had their own problems to solve and they had a decent support system to keep them going. Sadie is the main character, a girl who is dealing with her parents divorce and being shoved off to her aunt's house for the summer while they are in Egypt.
Joe is a boy who is recovering from the loss of his twin brother, a tragedy that has made a big impact on his life. And Allie, well she's a strong, yet fragile character. One of those characters that tries their best to seem aloof and strong yet has this hidden side to them.
And the bad guys were super creeps and scared me when reading about them. Those are some characters I would hope never to run into in real life.
Relatability: I think there's a lot you can relate to in this book as a reader, loss of family, divorce, helping a friend in need... Definitely an eye-opening book that handles some big issues.
Cover Commentary: I love it. Definitely gives you a feel for what the book is about.
Plot: I love the mystery behind Allie when you meet her in the book, how tough she is and how unwilling to reveal any type of contact information to Sadie. It becomes apparent that something is going on pretty much from the start when it comes to Allie. She won't share a lot about herself with Sadie except for her love of riding. When Joe comes along and steals Sadie's attention just a bit, you can feel the tension between the characters.
There were some graphic moments and definitely scary moments in this book that really will shock you. I loved the realistic nature of this book and how it touches on subjects that are not often broached with the finesse that the author managed with her writing. Also, I love a nice, somewhat wrapped up ending and you get some closure with this novel that is much needed.
Characters: I really think it was the characters that made this book. Each had their own problems to solve and they had a decent support system to keep them going. Sadie is the main character, a girl who is dealing with her parents divorce and being shoved off to her aunt's house for the summer while they are in Egypt.
Joe is a boy who is recovering from the loss of his twin brother, a tragedy that has made a big impact on his life. And Allie, well she's a strong, yet fragile character. One of those characters that tries their best to seem aloof and strong yet has this hidden side to them.
And the bad guys were super creeps and scared me when reading about them. Those are some characters I would hope never to run into in real life.
Relatability: I think there's a lot you can relate to in this book as a reader, loss of family, divorce, helping a friend in need... Definitely an eye-opening book that handles some big issues.
Cover Commentary: I love it. Definitely gives you a feel for what the book is about.
March 17, 2011
Summer is not turning out quite how Sadie Lester would have liked. Even though her mother basically dropped her off in the middle of Minnesota to live with her aunt and uncle and their bajillion kids for the summer, Sadie is determined to still find time for her true passion - mountain biking. Fortunately, Sadie quickly discovers that the wilds of Minnesota are actually the perfect place to not only one her riding skills but to escape the craziness of her new home. And her skills quickly begin to improve, especially after Sadie meets the fearless and focused rider Allie. Accompanied by Sadie's 'cousin' Joe, Allie continually forces the trio to push their bodies to the utmost limits, without ever exhibiting any fear. That is until they discover a dead priest in the woods and Allie disappears after reporting the crime that Sadie begins to realize just how desperate Allie's life has recently become and her determination to help her new friend no matter what.
As unique storylines go, Chasing AllieCat is an absolute winner. When approached with the possibility of reviewing a novel about a teenage GIRL who mountain bikes competitively with the added bonus of a mysterious murder, well you can imagine my desire to dive right in. Talk about your strong, empowered heroine! Sadie (and Allie) is all of those things as she pushes herself physically in her riding. But more importantly she always remains a relatable teenager, suffering from self-doubt and even fear of success.
Rebecca Fjelland Davis does an excellent job of creating a world full of annoying little cousins, redneck neighbors, and above all the ferocious Allie to populate Sadie's summer. Basically every single individual (with the glaring exception of Sadie's 'cousin' Joe who I could never wrap my brain around) was utterly real and full of personality. Combined with Ms. Davis' excellent sense of place - the backwoods of Minnesota - and you have a compelling mystery I'm sure most teens will gobble right up.
As unique storylines go, Chasing AllieCat is an absolute winner. When approached with the possibility of reviewing a novel about a teenage GIRL who mountain bikes competitively with the added bonus of a mysterious murder, well you can imagine my desire to dive right in. Talk about your strong, empowered heroine! Sadie (and Allie) is all of those things as she pushes herself physically in her riding. But more importantly she always remains a relatable teenager, suffering from self-doubt and even fear of success.
Rebecca Fjelland Davis does an excellent job of creating a world full of annoying little cousins, redneck neighbors, and above all the ferocious Allie to populate Sadie's summer. Basically every single individual (with the glaring exception of Sadie's 'cousin' Joe who I could never wrap my brain around) was utterly real and full of personality. Combined with Ms. Davis' excellent sense of place - the backwoods of Minnesota - and you have a compelling mystery I'm sure most teens will gobble right up.
April 20, 2011
I'm going to be honest, when I first heard that this book was about teens who mountain bike I was skeptical. But, I was wrong. Although I did think it was a little convenient that the only other girl she met also was a mountain biker, and then Joe came to live with her family and he rode mountain bikes as well. But, it's a story so whatever. I loved how strong Allie was, my favorite part was probably when she screamed her head off at Joe because he smoked, and after that he stopped. She always knew what she wanted, and she gave her all to get it. Also, the different levels to the story made it addictive. There was the mystery with the priest in the woods, the intense training for the race on July 4th, Allie was a puzzle all on her own, and then of course the chemistry between Allie and Joe or maybe it's Joe and Sadie or was it Sadie and Allie? You'll have to figure that one out on your own. Their strength and growth by the end of the book was amazing and inspiring.
What I didn't like about this book was the excessive cussing. I understand that almost every book on the planet has some profanity, but this seemed overboard and unnecessary. I felt like they were just cussing to cuss. And Joe, who I respected at the beginning for standing up for himself when Allie made fun of him for not cussing, ended up with just as dirty of a mouth as the other two, and they acted like it was some great thing that he'd finally gotten over it. By the end I found myself rolling my eyes every time they did because it was a new sentence, so of course it needed another cuss word.
Even though I know that sounds bad, I really did enjoy this book, and if the cussing wouldn't bother you, then I think it's a fantastic, exciting story that I would recommend to you.
~Kit
http://ReadingTeen.net/
What I didn't like about this book was the excessive cussing. I understand that almost every book on the planet has some profanity, but this seemed overboard and unnecessary. I felt like they were just cussing to cuss. And Joe, who I respected at the beginning for standing up for himself when Allie made fun of him for not cussing, ended up with just as dirty of a mouth as the other two, and they acted like it was some great thing that he'd finally gotten over it. By the end I found myself rolling my eyes every time they did because it was a new sentence, so of course it needed another cuss word.
Even though I know that sounds bad, I really did enjoy this book, and if the cussing wouldn't bother you, then I think it's a fantastic, exciting story that I would recommend to you.
~Kit
http://ReadingTeen.net/
July 12, 2011
From the moment I read the synopsis, I knew I wanted to read Chasing Alliecat; the premise of the story intrigued me. However, I was a little iffy about the mountain biking, would I understand the terminology, would it keep my attention? I had nothing to worry about; Chasing Alliecat is one hard book to put down.
Sadie's parents have a troubled relationship; in order to reconnect they decided to work on a project together in Egypt. Sadie and her brother are sent to spend the summer with their extended family. Sadie's uncles reminded me of Larry the Cable guy - they are very all American, country boys. You just can't help but get attached to their characters.
Sadie has started mountain biking and on one of her rides she meets Allie. Allie's character is easy to love; she is a strong female role and doesn't take crap off of anyone. Allie is very mysterious - Sadie does not know where she lives, her number, anything about her really. Allie just shows up every morning to train for an upcoming mountain bike match. Joe is also in town for the summer, he isn't a "mountain biker", but he does enjoy off road biking. He joins Sadie and Allie while they train.
During one of their training sessions they stumble upon a badly beaten priest in the forest. Allie knows the priest and runs off to call the police then she disappears. Sadie and Joey aren't about to let Allie just disappear; they set out to find her and to save her from whatever trouble she may be in.
Chasing Alliecat is a fast paced read. I really enjoyed the story-line, it was different but the mystery around Allie held my interest and kept me guessing all the way to the end. The side characters really made the story. Rebecca did a wonderful job bringing them to life.
Read more: http://www.pageturnersblog.com/search...
Sadie's parents have a troubled relationship; in order to reconnect they decided to work on a project together in Egypt. Sadie and her brother are sent to spend the summer with their extended family. Sadie's uncles reminded me of Larry the Cable guy - they are very all American, country boys. You just can't help but get attached to their characters.
Sadie has started mountain biking and on one of her rides she meets Allie. Allie's character is easy to love; she is a strong female role and doesn't take crap off of anyone. Allie is very mysterious - Sadie does not know where she lives, her number, anything about her really. Allie just shows up every morning to train for an upcoming mountain bike match. Joe is also in town for the summer, he isn't a "mountain biker", but he does enjoy off road biking. He joins Sadie and Allie while they train.
During one of their training sessions they stumble upon a badly beaten priest in the forest. Allie knows the priest and runs off to call the police then she disappears. Sadie and Joey aren't about to let Allie just disappear; they set out to find her and to save her from whatever trouble she may be in.
Chasing Alliecat is a fast paced read. I really enjoyed the story-line, it was different but the mystery around Allie held my interest and kept me guessing all the way to the end. The side characters really made the story. Rebecca did a wonderful job bringing them to life.
Read more: http://www.pageturnersblog.com/search...
February 18, 2011
Summary: Sadie Lester has been forced to stay with her aunt and uncle in the boonies, Minnesota, for the summer while her parents have a wild Egyptian adventure. While escaping from her relatives’ packed house one night, Sadie meets Allie, a girl who seems to have quite a few secrets and a passion for mountain biking. Sadie and Allie become fast friends, and one day they stumble upon something heinous while biking in the woods, setting off a chain of events that leave Allie missing and Sadie in grave danger.
My thoughts: Chasing AllieCat is an exciting story about friendship and facing your fears. Though the real action doesn’t start until halfway through the book, the slower beginning builds the setting and the three main characters until you feel like you’ve known them a while.
Chasing AllieCat centered around mountain biking, and I enjoyed how the author used biking to parallel the themes she later introduced through the Allie and Joe’s misfortunes. I’ve never been mountain biking before, but now I’d kind of like to give it a go! Rebecca Fjelland Davis makes it sound so exhilarating!
The thing I enjoyed most about Chasing AllieCat was the story. There were humorous moments, suspenseful moments, and downright scary moments. Every sub-plot woven into the story felt developed. The mystery revolving around Allie, though somewhat confusing at first, was very realistic and intense.
Overall, I would definitely suggest reading Chasing AllieCat. It was a real breath of fresh air for me, and I was pleased with how satisfied it left me feeling. If you’re looking for something different and exciting, give it a go!
My thoughts: Chasing AllieCat is an exciting story about friendship and facing your fears. Though the real action doesn’t start until halfway through the book, the slower beginning builds the setting and the three main characters until you feel like you’ve known them a while.
Chasing AllieCat centered around mountain biking, and I enjoyed how the author used biking to parallel the themes she later introduced through the Allie and Joe’s misfortunes. I’ve never been mountain biking before, but now I’d kind of like to give it a go! Rebecca Fjelland Davis makes it sound so exhilarating!
The thing I enjoyed most about Chasing AllieCat was the story. There were humorous moments, suspenseful moments, and downright scary moments. Every sub-plot woven into the story felt developed. The mystery revolving around Allie, though somewhat confusing at first, was very realistic and intense.
Overall, I would definitely suggest reading Chasing AllieCat. It was a real breath of fresh air for me, and I was pleased with how satisfied it left me feeling. If you’re looking for something different and exciting, give it a go!
December 28, 2010
One early reader says: "A good read for any age. Judy Blume meets Steig Larsson."
Here's the publisher's synopsis:
Sadie Lester has been dumped with relatives for the summer. Boredom seems inevitable in her small Minnesota town until she meets Allie—a spiky-haired off-road biker with incredible grace and speed. Training for the upcoming bike race, Allie leads Sadie and cute fellow cyclist Joe up and down Mount Kato—an exhilarating rush that pushes their limits. The fun ends abruptly when they stray off the trail and find a priest, badly beaten and near death. After calling for help, Allie mysteriously disappears from their lives.
Just like the trash littering the beautiful river bluffs, there's something foul afoot. Creepy rednecks are prowling the woods, the same ones who ran Sadie and Allie off the road one night. It's not until the day of the big race that Sadie finally learns the startling truth about Allie, her connection to the priest, and what drove her into hiding.
Here's the publisher's synopsis:
Sadie Lester has been dumped with relatives for the summer. Boredom seems inevitable in her small Minnesota town until she meets Allie—a spiky-haired off-road biker with incredible grace and speed. Training for the upcoming bike race, Allie leads Sadie and cute fellow cyclist Joe up and down Mount Kato—an exhilarating rush that pushes their limits. The fun ends abruptly when they stray off the trail and find a priest, badly beaten and near death. After calling for help, Allie mysteriously disappears from their lives.
Just like the trash littering the beautiful river bluffs, there's something foul afoot. Creepy rednecks are prowling the woods, the same ones who ran Sadie and Allie off the road one night. It's not until the day of the big race that Sadie finally learns the startling truth about Allie, her connection to the priest, and what drove her into hiding.
January 31, 2012
As a school librarian this was in my pile to read before putting out for my students. I tend to want to read things with material that might be mature so I can help the books get into the right hands. This was a riveting story with a fast paced plot of bike-riding teens that find a very beat-up and almost dead man in the woods that turns out to be a local priest. He survives to go to hospital for treatment, but Allie one of the teens proceeds to vanish also. The story revolves around bike racing for fun and competition and series of losses mixed with love. The writer has created strong teen characters that are interesting, complex, and likeable. Although each has their own unique story and baggage, they seem to mesh in a well written story. Just know you'll need a tissue or two (or three) at the end, but I won't spoil the ending here. I highly recommend this book for teens looking for a story that will engage them quickly and lead them along to a thrilling end.
February 7, 2011
2.5
There was stuff I really liked in here and some stuff that didn't work for me. This is a good one for reluctant readers and those looking for a good story about alternate athletes -- these kids are bikers! I saw the mystery from a mile away but I don't think that other readers will nor will it deter them. Longer review to come.
Full review here: http://stackedbooks.blogspot.com/2011...
There was stuff I really liked in here and some stuff that didn't work for me. This is a good one for reluctant readers and those looking for a good story about alternate athletes -- these kids are bikers! I saw the mystery from a mile away but I don't think that other readers will nor will it deter them. Longer review to come.
Full review here: http://stackedbooks.blogspot.com/2011...
July 12, 2011
A good book, and unusual in that it's a YA where the teens seek help from adults when they're in a very scary situation. But one major frustration. What adult in their right mind lets three teenagers wander around town on their own with a nutcase and his henchmen out to get them?
September 27, 2017
The characters were interesting and well-drawn, and amazingly, I actually liked the sports/mountain bike scenes! The scenes were woven in with the plot and characters. It wasn't a book ABOUT mountain biking, but it was a story that involved it. And that worked well.
April 16, 2012
Very interesting story, and I liked how the biking was incorporated into the book. Some of the writing was a bit meh, but the story moved along quickly and it really held my interest. I'm giving this book to a friend of mine who lives in Mankato. They'll love it!
July 1, 2016
I couldn't put this book down. Great story, set in Mankato, MN! If you like mountain biking, or dogs, or stories set in familiar places, or interesting characters, or great story-telling,then this is the book for you. A teen novel that adults will also enjoy.
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