Charlene Reviews: Deirdre, the Wanderer by Jonnie Comet

ASIN #: B002DYIF2Q

File Size: 699 KB

Copyright: September 8, 2011

Publisher: Surf City Source

Overview:

(Taken from Amazon)

Deirdre's made up her mind - there can be no living where there is no love. But it's winter in Connecticut. And - '... you always hear these stories of stupid runaways who get picked up nearly freezing to death on the streets of Manhattan or whatever. I'm sorry, but being homeless in a place like New York is just stupid. At least I had a plan.' And what a plan!

As in days gone by, the fifteen-year-old full of romantic daydreams and resolved on self-determination will hitch a ride to the southern seas. Soon she learns it's not all plain sailing amidst the tropical trades. In fact it's more like danger and degradation, living and working as a runaway and underage illegal alien on her own. Was it ever supposed to be this weird?

Whether transporting drugs as a love slave in the Caribbean, sailing the Greek Isles amongst the rich and famous, combating pirates on the high seas in Arabia, fleeing captivity and felony in the Outback, or living the life of Eve in a nudist resort, Jonnie Comet's indefatigable heroine must grow to womanhood with only her wits to guide her. Or die trying.

Charlene's Review:

Deirdre is one gutsy teenage girl. Setting off on her own, with dreams of sailing away to a tropical island, with little more than a duffel bag and determination, at only 15 years old. With a few lucky breaks she finds herself, at first, in Bimini, and her new life begins. Hitchhiking, odd jobs, and unlikely relationships ensue, as she learns to live on her own terms, and flourishes amidst danger and heartache.

First off, the book cautions "Mature themes." If rampant lesbianism bothers you, this is not the book for you. As Deirdre finds her way in the world, she is finding her way, sexually. A coming of age story, Deirdre is very daring in her pursuits, yet subtly naive in her initial judgment of people's intentions. She still seems to come out of her experiences a better person, which gives this book a refreshing quality.

Mr. Comet writes in the guise of a teenage girl, with the corresponding thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, beautifully. It was hard to believe it was not a woman author, he nailed the emotions so well. The beauty of the story, after all, was the innocence of a girl fighting for her place in the world, no matter how unconventionally. I rather enjoyed this story of following one's dreams, and despite the repetitive sexual themes, which I felt were not totally necessary to an already enjoyable story, I look forward to the coming sequel.