Angry by Laura L. Smtih

Emma's parent's unexpected divorce has thrown her world out of control. Everything seems to be falling apart and Emma is the one stuck trying to hold it together. The guilt her parents inflict on her causes her to respond in anger and the last thing she wants to do is be around them. The two bright spots in her life are her friends and the upcoming school production of Les Miserables. When Emma lands the part of Eponine, she finds a unique way to deal with the pain. What she does not know is that God is going to use this play to draw her to him.

When I read the synopsis for Angry, I expected it to be heavy reading full of drama and teenage angst. I was pleasantly surprised to find that although the author deals with Emma's anger, the book is not depressing and heavy. Emma is presented as an authentic teenage girl whose life is changing. She is angry at her parents and a bit rebellious, but anger does not define all of who she is. Rather Emma is fun-loving and happy at some parts. She genuinely cares about her siblings, friends, and even parents. The story emphasizes the use of God-given passions as a coping technique for dealing with pain and anger. It's a good idea and far better than some of the unhealthy ways that some people cope with their anger. I would recommend this book for teenage girls as that is who it is aimed towards. However, as a 20-something, who hasn't been in high school for awhile, I still enjoyed the book.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."