What I Didn't Say

Spoilers Ahead

These days I don't know what is wrong with me, but I'm starting to hate all the books that others seem to love. Okay, so I didn't completely hate it seeing that I gave it three stars. But it was only because I didn't want to be the cold hearted robot who gave two stars to a book about a guy losing his voice.

First of all, the accident and its consequences were too implausible. I know others pointed this out as well, but how the hell did he survive if he lives in an island with no proper hospital nearby? And if we were to believe he was in an accident, how come the only part he got hurt was his neck? In fact it even says that Carter and Rain fell on top of him. And these guys are like jocks who play basketball/football and do bench presses and stuff, so doesn't it make you wonder how none of his other parts got hurt. At least a hand sprain, maybe? Look, I don't want to put Jake in any more pain, but come on. Most of the medical details were brushed under the carpet. Like, isn't he supposed to get checked regularly or anything? The only time he goes is when he has a fever or something. Oh, and he lost his freaking voice for God's sake, so shouldn't he be attending regular sessions with a shrink?

I'm just sixteen and have no idea about drinking or booze but can you get drunk from drinking two beers? I think the author was being way too preachy. Sure, drinking a lot is bad. So what? They are not going to drink ever again in their whole life? It would be way more sensible if they advised against drinking and driving. But, no. They are hell-bent on taking a pledge to “not drink again, ever, this whole school year.” Right. Because it is perfectly okay to drink after the school year is over.

And last but definitely not the least was Samantha. First and foremost why does Jake even love her? All that he tells us is that she has chocolate eyes and lips that taste like different fruit everytime he kisses her. That she is smart, pretty, nice, funny. We get it. I felt that he only had a crush on her.but iff Samantha had actually done something nice, maybe I would have got why Jake loved her as much as he did. But instead she says that she is glad that the accident happened to him because then she would have someone to talk to.

Ex-freaking-cuse me?

Sam, sweetie? He lost his ability to speak after his accident but it isn't like he couldn't listen to you before that.

It was she who never approached him. After that, her likability just rolled down the hill. What with her telling Jake that he has a perfect life and that he should be grateful. Yeah, her life was rough. Her mom died, she was living on her own. This could have been totally handled better. The best and first example that comes to my mind is Ruby from Lock and Key by Sarah Dessen. But that didn't mean she could be a total bitch (should be pronounced as “witch” by kids under 13)

But in spite of all this, the book was good. I liked Jake and how he dealt with the things going on his life. How he was there for Sam when she needed him. But it wasn't enough to make me love the book. Also I was surprised to know that author had a somewhat similar experience because then I would have expected the book to be written better.

P.S I would like to recommend a manga with a similar concept which was done so much better. And even if mangas aren't your thing, it would be worthwhile to check it out http://mangafox.me/manga/kingyo_sou/