“[An] appealing love story that provides romantics with many swoon-worthy moments.”
“Using the device of Clementine’s amnesia, Crane explores themes of freedom and self-determination…Readers will respond to [Clementine’s] testing of new waters. A light exploration of existential themes.”
“[R]eaders glimpse a new side of Ireland. Clementine is a resilient heroine…The book ultimately rewards…”
“Themes of identity, free will, and self-determination pervade the story. The setting in lush and beautiful Ireland adds charm to the tale as does the romantic brogue of the leading man. The final, unexpected plot twist also helps the story achieve its fresh and appealing quality. Teens who like romance, mystery, and a strong-willed female will like this quick, enjoyable read.”
“This quickly paced work will be enjoyed by teens interested in independence, love, self-discovery, and drama.”
“Crane’s contemporary YA offers a light take on heavy issues…a charming Irish setting with a sweet romance and brooding hero…”
“The Upside of Falling Down is a sweet, funny love story that YA readers will fall for.”
“First love, starting over, finding herself—the story is hopeful and romantic.”
“…A short, sweet romance…The characters were fun. The pacing and writing were great. The plot was interesting, and the setting was beautiful and lush. If you’re looking for a cute romance, try this!”
“I’m not the least surprised that Rebekah Crane has written yet another book that I’ve wholly adored, and The Upside of Falling Down may be my favorite yet. Written with Rebekah’s unstoppable mix of sharp humor, detailed characters, and all-around charm, this story delivers a fresh and enticing take on first love—and one that will leave readers swooning.”
“It is a great read for teens, especially girls, and a strong candidate for cross-generation discussion.”
“Now that the title has captured our attention, I have even better news: No, this book isn’t a history lesson about a president. Much more wonderfully, it centers on teenager Zander Osborne, who meets a boy named Grover Cleveland at a camp for at-risk youth. Together, the two and other kids who face bipolar disorder, anorexia, pathological lying, schizophrenia, and other obstacles use their group therapy sessions to break down and build themselves back up. And as Zander gets closer to Grover, she wonders if happiness is actually a possibility for her after all.”
“The true beauty of Crane’s book lies in the way she handles the ugly, painful details of real life, showing the glimmering humanity beneath the façades of even her most troubled characters. Crane shows, with enormous heart and wisdom, how even the unlikeliest of friendships can give us the strength we need to keep on fighting.”
“Crane has created an organic and dynamic friendship group. Esther’s first-person narration, including her framing of existential questions as ‘Complex Math Problems,’ is honest and endearing. A compelling narrative about the power of friendship, faith, self-acceptance, and forgiveness.”
“Crane’s latest is a breezy, voice-driven, and emotional read with a well-rounded cast of characters that walk that fine line between quirky and true to life…The novel stands out for its depiction of the American Southwest...Hand to fans of Jandy Nelson and Estelle Laure.”
“The Infinite Pieces of Us tells a story of judgement, family, trust, identity, and new beginnings…a fresh take on teenage pregnancy…Crane creates relatable, diverse characters with varying socioeconomic backgrounds and sexualities that remind readers of the importance of getting to know people beyond the surface presentation.”