War and Speech

by Don Zolidis

[Sam@WLABB]

Rating: 4.5 stars

When Sydney's dad was sent to prison, she became someone everyone avoided. After relocating from their McMansion to a less than desirable apartment, she found herself with the possibility of escaping her past failures, and perhaps, finally being a winner at something.

I know many people were interested in this book, because it held the promise of featuring speech and debate, but I honestly wanted to read it, because Zolidis wrote it. Last year, I read his YA debut, The Seven Torments of Amy and Craig, and it was hilarious. I was hoping for more of that, and I definitely did get that, as the book often had me releasing peals of laughter.

One of the main reasons I enjoyed this book so much was Sydney. She was snarky and sarcastic, and I just loved her sense of humor. From her observations of the world around her to her irreverent cookie cake messages, the girl kept me in stitches. She also managed to find a quirky bunch of friends, who were perfect foils for her. All of them brought their A-game when bantering, and there were times I thought I could listen to them volley all day.

One of the big plots of the book was the conspiracy to take down the all powerful Speech and Debate team. That's right. Sydney transferred to a school, where the BMOCs were orators and debaters. That whole idea made me love the school, until I met the people on the debate team. It was quite a toxic environment. The shocking part was how much Syd grew to enjoy S&D. The bad part was her inner battle to stick with the plan or fully adopt the team and its culture. Regardless, it was amazing to see that spark lit in her, see her believe in herself, and watch her confidence grow.

Sydney was also struggling with her anger towards her parents for all the fallout due to her father's crimes, but at the same time, still loving them. She felt betrayed by her parents. Her father lied, her mother was moving on, and Sydney was still trying to work her way through all these changes. Regardless, they were her parents, and she created so many beautiful memories with them, which could not be erased.

This book was just a treat to read. I laughed and laughed, while also enjoying the way Zolidis explored many different themes. It was packed with fully fleshed out characters, who were complex and interesting, and I found myself completely carried away in all the drama Eaganville.

*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.

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