Review: Marooned in Manhattan by Sheila Agnew

Image from Goodreads

Title: Marooned in Manhattan
Author: Sheila Agnew
Publisher: O’Brien Press
Publication Date: March 2014
Source: Review Copy
Rating: 4/5

Synopsis from Goodreads

After Evie Brooks’ mother dies, her American uncle Scott, whom Evie barely remembers, arrives in Dublin. Much to Evie’s dismay, she’ll have to go and live with Scott in New York City.

Having never owned a pet more substantial than a goldfish, Evie is intrigued by her uncle’s NYC veterinary practice. Scott engages Evie as an assistant in the clinic. Thus begins a series of light-hearted adventures with lovable animals and their sometimes lovable owners.

At the end of the summer, Evie has to make the choice of whether or not to return to live in Ireland with her godmother, Janet…

REVIEW BY KATE – YEAR 9

The title sets the scene – but Manhattan and Marooned – how can this be? Manhattan, the Big Apple, the City that is alive and vibrant, thronging with sounds, sights and smells can not possibly allow anyone to feel abandoned or lost. It does become clear the way in which Evie feels ‘marooned’ as she tells her story and follows her mothers last wish, moving to live with her American Uncle Scott.

Evie’s tale is sentimental, emotional and believable. Her courage and maturity extend well beyond her twelve years. She is self assured, engaging, showing the remarkable quality of remaining true to herself. Her tale is perfect for adolescent girls embarking on their own life journey.

Like the author, Sheila Agnew’s own upbringing, Evie’s journey twists and turns from her Irish heritage to the nooks and brooks of the New York subway concluding in Central Park via challenging choices and dilemmas along the way.

Manhattan is also teeming with animal lovers – and besotted beings of the human kind who adore and cherish their precious pampered pets. Animal lovers will adore this book. Having never owned a pet more substantial than a goldfish, Evie is intrigued by her uncles veterinary practice along with his fast track emergency exit fireman’s pole in his apartment

Thus begins a series of light-hearted and quirky adventures, introducing a coast of entertaining ‘veterinary’ characters. Pets pop up to provide some really funny moments- look out for the snapping turtle and the iguana on the treadmill

Evie weaves together effectively with her family and friends – her super sassy Uncle Scott, his lousy, loathsome, lawyer girlfriend Leela and feisty Finn.

The question is – will Evie stay with Uncle Scott or return to her godmother, Janet, in Ireland???

Be prepared for the ultimate dramatic twist – setting the scene for the sequel!!!!