Title: Clarity
Author: Kim Harrington
Rating: 5/5
Format Reviewed: Hardcover
Dimensions: 256 Pages,21.3 x 14.5 x 2.8 cm ISBN-10: 0545230500
ISBN-13: 978-0545230506
ISBN-13: 978-0545230506
SCHOLASTIC INC / March 1, 2011 / Hardcover
When you can see things others can't, where do you look for the truth? This paranormal murder mystery will have teens reading on the edge of their seats.
Clarity "Clare" Fern sees things. Things no one else can see. Things like stolen kisses and long-buried secrets. All she has to do is touch a certain object, and the visions come to her. It's a gift.
And a curse.
When a teenage girl is found murdered, Clare's ex-boyfriend wants her to help solve the case--but Clare is still furious at the cheating jerk. Then Clare's brother--who has supernatural gifts of his own--becomes the prime suspect, and Clare can no longer look away. Teaming up with Gabriel, the smoldering son of the new detective, Clare must venture into the depths of fear, revenge, and lust in order to track the killer. But will her sight fail her just when she needs it most?
**********
For months I have been waiting for Clarity to hit shelves so that I could get my greedy paws on it. This debut novel from Kim Harrington has been at the top of my to-be-read list, and rightfully so. Clarity combines all of the right ingredients to make a young adult novel that you will have trouble putting down. I thought I would do this review a little differently on account of how much I enjoyed the book. Here are the top 5 reasons you need to make room for Clarity on your bookshelf...
5. Retrocognitive Psychometry - You may be asking yourself what is "Retrocognitive Psychometry"? Well, you're not alone. Before this book I was not aware of this type of ability, nor did I know the proper terminology. Retrocognitive Psychometry is the ability to gather readings from people's personal objects; this is exactly what Clarity "Clare" Fern can do. To say Clare's ability is interesting would be a gross understatement. Harrington has not only shown Clare's ability in a professional way, but has also shown how her gift has impacted her personal life. It is these two perspectives on what Clare can do that truly gives readers a well rounded understanding of her character.
4. Small Town Murder Mystery - Clarity is set in Eastport which is a small tourist destination located on Cape Cod. This seemingly quiet town is rocked by a murder and suddenly the entire community is on edge. Harrington's use of setting within this mystery is absolutely wonderful. The town's landmarks, like King's Courtyard Motel and Yummys, are woven into the mystery and in turn become pivotal in telling of the story. These favourite spots in Eastport also act as the main gathering places for the characters which will no doubt make readers feel right at home within the pages. The mystery itself will keep you guessing from beginning to end. Even when you think you know the truth Harrington will turn it around and shock you.
3. Two Suitable Fellas - What is better than one fella? Two! Honestly, I never have trouble choosing between the two male leads, but in Clarity I just couldn't make up my mind! At first I thought that I would be pining for Gabriel, but it wasn't that easy. While Justin is the cheating ex-boyfriend, Gabriel definitely has some flaws of his own. As much as both of the male characters disappointed me at one point or another, they also surprised me. When it comes down to it their affection for Clare is genuine which makes it very difficult to choose just one. ;)
2. Kickass Heroine - Many have said that Clarity reminds them of the television show Veronica Mars. I can see where some might think this considering Clare's involvement in the murder case. I definitely see the connection but I really think it is more because of the Clare's persnickety nature. As a heroine Clare is full of wit, sass, and confidence. Despite being ostracized by many of her classmates she doesn't wallow in self-pity. Clare is the type of heroine that I like to see and one that I hope other female readers will admire.
1. Sibling Love - The relationship between Perry and Clare is my absolute favourite part of this book. Never have I ever read a YA novel that looks at the bond between brother and sister this way. While Perry no doubt cares for his sister it is actually Clare who takes on a protective role over her older brother. Their entire relationship is so incredibly endearing and it completely grounds this book. You have to wonder who inspired Harrington to write so affectionately about the relationship between brother and sister.
If I need to actually say it, well, here it is: I LOVED THIS BOOK. Enjoy the trailer and go grab your copy of Clarity. Your bookshelf will thank you. - Christie
5. Retrocognitive Psychometry - You may be asking yourself what is "Retrocognitive Psychometry"? Well, you're not alone. Before this book I was not aware of this type of ability, nor did I know the proper terminology. Retrocognitive Psychometry is the ability to gather readings from people's personal objects; this is exactly what Clarity "Clare" Fern can do. To say Clare's ability is interesting would be a gross understatement. Harrington has not only shown Clare's ability in a professional way, but has also shown how her gift has impacted her personal life. It is these two perspectives on what Clare can do that truly gives readers a well rounded understanding of her character.
4. Small Town Murder Mystery - Clarity is set in Eastport which is a small tourist destination located on Cape Cod. This seemingly quiet town is rocked by a murder and suddenly the entire community is on edge. Harrington's use of setting within this mystery is absolutely wonderful. The town's landmarks, like King's Courtyard Motel and Yummys, are woven into the mystery and in turn become pivotal in telling of the story. These favourite spots in Eastport also act as the main gathering places for the characters which will no doubt make readers feel right at home within the pages. The mystery itself will keep you guessing from beginning to end. Even when you think you know the truth Harrington will turn it around and shock you.
3. Two Suitable Fellas - What is better than one fella? Two! Honestly, I never have trouble choosing between the two male leads, but in Clarity I just couldn't make up my mind! At first I thought that I would be pining for Gabriel, but it wasn't that easy. While Justin is the cheating ex-boyfriend, Gabriel definitely has some flaws of his own. As much as both of the male characters disappointed me at one point or another, they also surprised me. When it comes down to it their affection for Clare is genuine which makes it very difficult to choose just one. ;)
2. Kickass Heroine - Many have said that Clarity reminds them of the television show Veronica Mars. I can see where some might think this considering Clare's involvement in the murder case. I definitely see the connection but I really think it is more because of the Clare's persnickety nature. As a heroine Clare is full of wit, sass, and confidence. Despite being ostracized by many of her classmates she doesn't wallow in self-pity. Clare is the type of heroine that I like to see and one that I hope other female readers will admire.
1. Sibling Love - The relationship between Perry and Clare is my absolute favourite part of this book. Never have I ever read a YA novel that looks at the bond between brother and sister this way. While Perry no doubt cares for his sister it is actually Clare who takes on a protective role over her older brother. Their entire relationship is so incredibly endearing and it completely grounds this book. You have to wonder who inspired Harrington to write so affectionately about the relationship between brother and sister.
If I need to actually say it, well, here it is: I LOVED THIS BOOK. Enjoy the trailer and go grab your copy of Clarity. Your bookshelf will thank you. - Christie
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