Maggie Come Lately
by Michelle Buckman
Published by Navpress Publishing Group
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Reviewed by Lisa Frisbie
First of the series, The Pathway Collection.
The story opens with 4-year-old Maggie McCarthy witnessing her mother's suicide. Fast-forward a dozen years and the narrative picks up as Maggie, now 16, serves as caretaker for her father and two brothers, essentially running the entire household and keeping the family together.
When Maggie discovers the sexual assault of a classmate, her life begins to change in unexpected ways. Maggie goes from "socially invisible" to being one of the most popular teens in her school. Hailed as a hero for her role in helping the victim, Maggie finds that she is not comfortable in the spotlight, even as her popularity increases and her social standing moves upward.
The author writes convincingly as she describes the emotional landscape of a 16-year-old girl. Maggie can't seem to get along with her father's new girlfriend. Newly popular Maggie has a date with a popular guy from school: the evening tests her commitment to personal purity. You'll easily connect with Maggie's struggles as her values and even her identity are in flux.
In the scenes that follow the sexual assault, we watch as God literally "works all things for His good." By her own admission, a maturing Maggie begins to figure out who she is and what she believes. Now that she's coming into her own, she is "Maggie-come-lately."
Michelle Buckman writes with wisdom and understanding about the trauma of being a teen girl, creating a compelling story with multiple plot lines to keep the reader involved and interested. Readers, especially young females, will enjoy this book and will easily identify with Maggie McCarthy.
Armchair Interviews says: Strong message for young women readers.
Author's Web site: http://www.MichelleBuckman.com