Two teenagers review “Freeing Linhurst,” a paranormal mystery for young adults by author Al Cassidy.
Summertime isn’t always carefree once class is out. Especially if you run a newspaper and get the brilliant idea of having a couple young adults you know review a young adult novel. My niece Keeley and her friend Brenna graciously agreed to participate in our East Falls Local experiment and share their opinions about “Freeing Linhurst,” a first novel by Al Cassidy, a friend of ours and the man behind a series of recent fundraisers for Historic Rittenhouse Town.
Somehow, he’s also found time to write a sequel to Freeing Linhurst, entitled “Freeing Linhurst 2: Into the Tunnels,” due out October 1st on Amazon.
Reviews for Freeing Linhurst
Brenna Farley
I found Freeing Linhurst to be an easy read. However, due to the thrilling, unpredictable plot, I found myself getting increasingly eager to turn each page. With just the right amount of suspense, this is the perfect summer reading book for someone who may have a difficult time gaining interest in other stories. Although targeted for younger readers, the story has a more serious undertone.
The book also sheds light on current problems that have to do with the treatment of mental illness. With the purpose of this book being to entertain, it does just that. I recommend this book to anyone that is a lover of suspense or mystery and is looking for an exciting, fast-paced summer read.
About Brenna
Brenna is a 14 year old girl from Elkins Park, Pennsylvania who has always possessed a strong passion for reading as well as writing short stories and plays. Her favorite book of all time is The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster.
Approaching her freshman year at Cheltenham High School, she has devoted her summer to exploring different genres and has developed a newfound love for author Khaled Hosseini’s work.
Keeley Fillmore
If you could give the book another title, what would it be?
I would retitle the book “Looking in Linhurst” since the main characters have discovered many secrets within the walls.
Which characters would you like to meet in real life?
I would like to meet Heather because she seems sad inside because of her past. I would also like to meet Jack because of his eagerness to explore.
What do you wish was different about the story or the ending?
I wish the book would spend more time focusing on the amulet from Jack’s mother and the powers it has.
Would the book make a cool movie? Video game? TV show?
I think that the book would make a good movie because of the action and suspense throughout the story.
What lessons did you learn from this book?
- How greed and power influence actions
- Don’t give up hope
- Follow your heart
Any other takeaways?
This novel reminded me of real world issues that occur today such as mental health and greed.
About Keeley
Keeley is a 14 year old freshman and a member of NJHS (National Junior Honor Society) at Cheltenham High School. Her favorite subject in school is English which sprouted from her love of reading. Her favorite genre of books are adventure. Another hobby of her’s is riding horses. She enjoys competing and is determined to earn ribbons. Keeley cares strongly about animals including her dog and cat. She is the oldest of three girls.
Be the first to comment