Ketchup Clouds: A Novel Audiobook

Quotes

• “Pitcher is one of the sharpest and most original voices in teen literature. From the very start, Ketchup Clouds is absolutely engrossing and entirely out of the norm. Zoe’s story emerges in tantalizing fits and starts, and is ultimately tragic, moving and wonderfully told.”

  — RT Book Reviews (4½ stars)

• “It’s not just suspense that drives this epistolary page-turner but Zoe’s authentic emotional responses and unyielding wit...[Ketchup Clouds] shows just how easy it is to make mistakes and how hard love can be.”

  — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

• “Pitcher…delivers a novel that is by turns heartbreaking and hilarious…One of the brothers ends up dead—this much we know—but we don’t know which one, or how Zoe was involved, until the very end. The suspense is palpable, and Zoe’s voice is witty and introspective as she explores issues relating to family, grief, and love…There’s no denying the emotional resonance of this bittersweet novel.”

  — Booklist (starred review)

• “Zoe’s introspective and surprisingly humorous voice will strike a chord with readers as they dwell on the space between guilt and innocence.”

  — Publishers Weekly (starred review)

• “Zoe’s original mind, turns of phrase, and sprightly narrative style give her story quick, light momentum and moments of lyricism...Sharp, articulate perceptions and a measure of suspense—as well as a lively thread of wit and humor—make this a very engaging read.”

  — Horn Book

• “The first person narrative gives a sense of immediacy to this unusual story of love and betrayal…The ending has excellent action that explains how one of the brothers dies. The story shows whether or not Zoe can find self-forgiveness for her deed as well as deal with her troubled family. The narrative voice of the author is compelling in this story that resonates with teen angst. The unusual title of ketchup clouds is from the mosaic that Zoe’s little sister, Dot, makes on her plate with ketchup and mashed potatoes.”

  — Children’s Literature

• “The raw and overwhelming emotions jump off the page and grab the reader by the throat in this beautifully written and unique novel. The grief and the guilt are woven so tightly with Zoe’s elation of experiencing true love that it is truly heartbreaking to read…As Zoe’s story jumps between past and present, Pitcher’s excellent writing builds suspense, as nothing is completely revealed until the very end. A better title might have attracted more readers, but overall this is a fantastic and captivating book that is highly recommended.”

  — VOYA

• “The twist on a familiar epistolary format is interesting if somewhat overstretched…But the ambiguity of the dead boy’s identity keeps readers turning pages. Overall, this title will be enjoyed by teens seeking edgy, realistic fiction with elements of romance and suspense.”

  — School Library Journal

• * "[Annabel Pitcher] deals with the topic realistically without losing sight of hope.

  — Booklist (starred review)

• *"...Powerfully honest, quirkily humorous...

  — Publisher's Weekly (starred review)

• * "Compelling and believable...by turns heartbreaking and hysterically funny...

  — School Library Journal (starred review)