Hidden: A Novel

Written in spare language that perfectly evokes the angst of the experiences it depicts, Hidden is a gem. I choose to read this book because I was about to see a friend from my teenage years, Helen Frost, at a camp reunion. We had worked together at a camp in New Hampshire in the early 70's. Since one of the book's settings is a camp in Michigan, it was a wonderful way to prepare for the reunion that we were about to attend. It was such a pleasure to talk to Helen directly about her book/writing!I am now most intrigued by Helen's writing. This book can be appreciated on many levels; for its great storyline, its insightful commentary on adolescence, as a family drama, and as a poem to be appreciated/digested on a deeper level. I am eagerly anticipating further reading of Frost's young adult novels!

I was searching my library website to see when "Hidden" by P.C and Kristin Cast was due to come out, and this book popped up. And, it caught my attention. Wow, I thought as I read the synopsis, this seems really cool. On a bit of an impulse, I ordered it. Let me just say, I am glad I did. The author of this book is inventive and clever in her use of poetry, the story is enthralling, yet it's an easy-going read. I would certainly recommend this book, not just for teenagers, but as a good story for adults as well.

Good

3.5 starsThe craft of this novel is what sets it apart. I actually read it twice after reading Frost's notes in the back about her process and the hidden messages inside the poems!What drug it down a bit for me was the pacing. It started at such a rapid-fire tempo and it's understandable, knowing this is when the crime takes place. However, I just could shake the almost annoying, sluggish feeling the rest of the book, even though the characters and messages were still enjoyable.A great book for middle grades or teens and a swift read.

This is a really great book because there is a girl named wrenAbbott and there is a girl named Darra. Darra and wren did not recognize each other on the first day of camp then they heard each other's names.Wren and Darra were not friends at first.Wren almost drowned Darra in a game called drown last.I really recommend Hidden its a really great book.From Isabella

Read by 10 yr old Grandson, who recommended it to Mom who read it & recommended to Gram. 3 Hits! Written in proses: a style for each main character.Many “hidden” life lessons wound skillfully in a little mystery!

Well written , shows true emotion of story. Can't imagine how I would react if it happened to me. Children are resilant

Anyone that has read this book cannot put it down. Our 2014 Charlotte Award Committee placed it on the ballot because it is a really good book that also has a hidden message from the author that will make you want to read it again to see the pattern.