The Constructive Burning of Monsters

A black comedy about a summer vacation gone horribly awry, this novel features Jess, who is facing the typical problems of a 14-year-old girl-annoying sisters, dysfunctional parents, insecurity and uncertainty-plus some unusual ones, like a history of mental illness and a brush with murder. The summer between junior high and high school is a coming of age and a commentary on the absurdity of the reality she observes, as she deals with feelings of lust, remorse, regret, confusion, and fear, while making her way through the minefield of transition to young adulthood we all face. What awaits Jess at the end of her journey will surprise you. Reminiscent, in style and character, of such classic and modern stories with young protagonists and adult themes, like "Catcher in the Rye," "The Heart is Lonely Hunter," "The Secret Life of Bees," and "The Pollen Room."