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As a child, the flamboyant, brooding, and beautiful Rozzie was always the star of her family — especially in her younger sister Jemma’s eyes. So when Rozzie takes up acting and, as a teenager, wins a part in a major motion picture, life changes irrevocably for both sisters. Rozzie is catapulted into the chaotic adult world of celebrity while Jemma travels to movie sets and relishes her sister’s fame — never seeing the strain that the spotlight puts on Rozzie. Soon Jemma develops her own artistic ambitions as a photographer, and Rozzie is forced to reveal the secret she has kept from her family for years — a rare eye condition that threatens her vision. Only then does Jemma begin to see the truth about her sister and herself — a reality that threatens the delicate balance of their relationship.
A moving and profound story about family, celebrity, envy, and ultimately love, The Art of Seeing is a brilliant exploration of the powerful and enduring connection between sisters.
- Booklist (starred review): “Exhilarating and heartrending. With a smart, proud, and capable protagonist eager to take her life by the reins, this novel is stunning.”
- Publisher’s Weekly (starred review): “In her YA debut, adult author McGovern (Neighborhood Watch) avoids gooeyness or condescension by making Amy and Matthew individuals, not diagnoses, and their relationship not just plausible, but suspenseful, as they try to figure out what they can be to each other.” Read the entire review here.
- Kirkus Review: “Unlike its most obvious read-alike, The Fault in Our Stars, this is not a tragic romance. McGovern’s triumph is how well she normalizes and highlights the variety of disability experiences among teens and their often circuitous journeys toward claiming their voices and right to self-determination. Ultimately, a deeply engaging and rewarding story.” Read entire review here.
- Hypable: “Overall this book is a must read for fans of John Green and Rainbow Rowell. The honesty and depth of character as well as the typical teenage struggles will appeal to those who like realistic fiction. Say What You Will is an important book to share and everyone should meet Amy and Matt.” Read the entire review here.
- Family Circle Magazine: Cammie McGovern channels her knowledge and passion for special- needs kids…Like the deservedly best-selling Wonder by R.J. Palacio—required reading for every family—this doesn’t just get you talking, it gets you thinking, feeling and rejoicing…
- TeenReads.com: With summer just around the corner and a long list of books to choose from, SAY WHAT YOU WILL should be at the very top. It is not one to miss.