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“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)
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“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)
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“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)
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“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)
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“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
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“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
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“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
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“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
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* "[Annabel Pitcher] deals with the topic realistically without losing sight of hope.
— Booklist (starred review)
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*"...Powerfully honest, quirkily humorous...
— Publisher's Weekly (starred review)
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* "Compelling and believable...by turns heartbreaking and hysterically funny...
— School Library Journal (starred review)