What do you think?
Rate this book
Farsighted #2
Open Heart
Meet ordinary teens with extraordinary powers in the award-winning Farsighted Series .
Plus-sized Simmi Shergill doesn't need to use her gift of psychic feeling to lure Alex and Dax into falling for her; they do that on their own. Choosing between the blind seer who loves her and the charming telekinetic with "bad idea" written all over him won't be easy--especially while trying to survive high school.
Evolved Publishing presents the second in a 5-part series, Farsighted , by award-winning author Emlyn Chand. YA / ROMANCE / PARANORMAL / FANTASY
Simmi Shergill's life is a mess. Her powers of psychic feeling are on the fritz, and Grandon Township's sudden population boom has brought quite a few unsavory characters to town. She also looks like an over-blown balloon in her size 14 pants, but not even starving herself seems to be helping.
At least she has Alex, the boyfriend who loves her so much he'd do anything for her. Last summer, he even risked his life to protect her from the mysterious boy everyone was convinced wanted to kill her.
Just one she's not so sure she feels the same way. Is Alex really the man of her dreams? Why can't she stop fixating on her would-be killer, Dax? Part of her wants to run screaming in the other direction whenever Dax is around, while the other part longs to run into his embrace, no matter whom she'd hurt or what she'd risk.
Simmi's loyalty is on the line. Whom will she choose--the blind seer who loves her, or the charming telekinetic with "bad idea" written all over him? Emotions run high in the tension-packed book two of the "Farsighted" series.
Praise for Farsighted :
"Chand's characters are compelling and diverse... Shapri is a standout." - Kirkus Reviews "A showdown...brings the novel to a surreal and...suspenseful close." - Publisher's Weekly "A suspenseful and spellbinding mystery that grips you from the very start." - IndieReader "A paranormal story line vastly different from the many offerings of vampires, fae and elves... Right away I liked Farsighted" - Tracy Riva for Midwest Book Reviews "Alex Kosmitoras might not have a magic wand or vampiric strength and speed, but he is a totally swoon-worthy hero that any mom would be proud to let her daughter date." - Melissa Luznicky Garrett, author of Turning Point "You don't have to be psychic to know that Farsighted is going to take the world by storm. Vampires are so last year." - Kimberly Kinrade, author of Forbidden Mind "I read the book in one sitting... the ONLY other time I have done this is when I read the Harry Potter series." - Marie Bothwick, blogger at Write Panic Live
Plus-sized Simmi Shergill doesn't need to use her gift of psychic feeling to lure Alex and Dax into falling for her; they do that on their own. Choosing between the blind seer who loves her and the charming telekinetic with "bad idea" written all over him won't be easy--especially while trying to survive high school.
Evolved Publishing presents the second in a 5-part series, Farsighted , by award-winning author Emlyn Chand. YA / ROMANCE / PARANORMAL / FANTASY
Simmi Shergill's life is a mess. Her powers of psychic feeling are on the fritz, and Grandon Township's sudden population boom has brought quite a few unsavory characters to town. She also looks like an over-blown balloon in her size 14 pants, but not even starving herself seems to be helping.
At least she has Alex, the boyfriend who loves her so much he'd do anything for her. Last summer, he even risked his life to protect her from the mysterious boy everyone was convinced wanted to kill her.
Just one she's not so sure she feels the same way. Is Alex really the man of her dreams? Why can't she stop fixating on her would-be killer, Dax? Part of her wants to run screaming in the other direction whenever Dax is around, while the other part longs to run into his embrace, no matter whom she'd hurt or what she'd risk.
Simmi's loyalty is on the line. Whom will she choose--the blind seer who loves her, or the charming telekinetic with "bad idea" written all over him? Emotions run high in the tension-packed book two of the "Farsighted" series.
Praise for Farsighted :
"Chand's characters are compelling and diverse... Shapri is a standout." - Kirkus Reviews "A showdown...brings the novel to a surreal and...suspenseful close." - Publisher's Weekly "A suspenseful and spellbinding mystery that grips you from the very start." - IndieReader "A paranormal story line vastly different from the many offerings of vampires, fae and elves... Right away I liked Farsighted" - Tracy Riva for Midwest Book Reviews "Alex Kosmitoras might not have a magic wand or vampiric strength and speed, but he is a totally swoon-worthy hero that any mom would be proud to let her daughter date." - Melissa Luznicky Garrett, author of Turning Point "You don't have to be psychic to know that Farsighted is going to take the world by storm. Vampires are so last year." - Kimberly Kinrade, author of Forbidden Mind "I read the book in one sitting... the ONLY other time I have done this is when I read the Harry Potter series." - Marie Bothwick, blogger at Write Panic Live
352 pages, Hardcover
First published May 25, 2012
About the author
Emlyn Chand
26 books1,161 followersMelissa Storm is a mother first, and everything else second. She used to write under the pseudonym Emlyn Chand, but finally had the confidence to come out as herself to the world. Her fiction is highly personal and often based on true stories. Writing is Melissa's way of showing her daughter just how beautiful life can be, when you pay attention to the everyday wonders that surround us.
Melissa loves books so much, she married fellow author Falcon Storm. Between the two of them, there are always plenty of imaginative, awe-inspiring stories to share. Melissa and Falcon also run the business Novel Publicity together, where she works as publisher, marketer, editor, and all-around business mogul. When she's not reading, writing, or child-rearing, Melissa spends time relaxing at home in the company of her two dogs, five parrots, and rescue cat. She never misses an episode of The Bachelor or her nightly lavender-infused soak in the tub.
Learn more about Melissa's business at www.NovelPublicity.com. Learn more about her other author alias at www.EmlynChand.com. Learn more about her life on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, or Google+.
Got a question? Send her a message here.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
Read
March 18, 2012Wait, what's this? The next book in my series. Cool!
February 26, 2012
omg omg omg omg! the cover alone is breathtaking! I cannot wait for this book to come out! Oh and I'm in love with the whole love triangle, I'm so for team Simmi and Dax. Don't get me wrong I love Alex he's probably my favorite character along with Shapri, and I'm more in love with the idea of those two hooking up than the latter :D
I know this book isn't out yet, but I'm still going to give the cover and the blurb a 5 stars because the story line has changed from one narrative to another, which is something I'm really excited about and am looking forward to! I hope this is a pattern we're seeing and the book after this will follow in a different characters narrative :D would love to see Shapri or Dax's pov :D :D
I know this book isn't out yet, but I'm still going to give the cover and the blurb a 5 stars because the story line has changed from one narrative to another, which is something I'm really excited about and am looking forward to! I hope this is a pattern we're seeing and the book after this will follow in a different characters narrative :D would love to see Shapri or Dax's pov :D :D
June 20, 2012
Firstly, many thanks to the awesome Emlyn Chand for offering an Advanced Reader Copy of Open Heart to her blog followers. Some of us (*me*) lack the patience to wait until it’s released. I scarfed this book down in the span of two days, highly upset that things like work and sleeping kept getting in the damn way.
Emlyn Chand gets major kudos for writing a series of books that aren’t Caucasian-centric. I don't get why so many YA fiction authors (and genre fiction writers in general) seem to write contemporary books that feature NO characters of color, or gay, or disabled people. It's like these authors are channeling 'Mad Men' or something. Of course, when put on the spot about their willful whitewashing, they'll fall back on lame stock answers like "I don't know if I could write a character like that right" or "My character can be anyone" (yeah, right). It's obvious that Ms. Chand got the Facebook update that not only do characters of color exist in contemporary settings, but it's not rocket science to write characters who are just like real people and not stereotypes. Simmi, Alex and Shapri could be found in practically any high school in America. The only difference is her teenagers just so happen to possess preternatural powers abnd struggle with all the responsibility of what such gifts bring.
I’m going to do my damndest not to give away too much, but truthfully, this book was a love/hate relationship. Overall I loved it and am now eagerly chomping at the bit for Shapri's story. Open Heart was just as intense as Farsighted and perhaps even more so since the main character Simmi is dealing with a crisis just as debilitating as Alex's blindness. She's suffering from serious self-esteem issues and she's also is distancing herself from her power of clarsentience out of fear she could hurt or kill someone accidentally. Suddenly, the self-assured, kick-ass girl with the huge smarts from the first book doubts everything about herself, including how much boyfriend Alex loves her. It’s highly ironic that she can use her powers to make others feel better, but can’t save herself from the controlling cycle of binging and purging that has begun to take over her life. I kept wanting to grab Simmi around her head and shake some sense into her. Unfortunately Simmi's fictional issue with weight is one that many struggle with in real life. The scenes of her convincing herself while bent over the toilet bowl were so painful to read. They were crafted with an immediacy that put me right there as a reader in the bathroom and unable to do anything to help.
The hate part also belongs to Simmi (for reasons that I will not give away), but it all stems from her self-hate.
Can I spare a few sentences for Alex? Okay I'm fangirling over Alex. Forget all the stalker-I-love-you-I-hate-you fake boyfriends littering the YA landscape. Alex is just awesome and the love he feels for Simmi felt that it came from a real and honest place. I love his loyalty, and I understand his discomfort about having the guy who'd he been dreaming about murdering his girlfriend now living under his roof.
My only quibble is that Open Heart felt a little unfinished. There’s a whole bunch of strangers moving into the sleepy little town of Grandon, some of them even possess psychic powers, but there’s no explanation as to why or how.
Open Heart is a wonderfully emotional roller-coaster of a book with characters who feel as real to be as best friends. Now, hurry up with Shapri's story!!!
Emlyn Chand gets major kudos for writing a series of books that aren’t Caucasian-centric. I don't get why so many YA fiction authors (and genre fiction writers in general) seem to write contemporary books that feature NO characters of color, or gay, or disabled people. It's like these authors are channeling 'Mad Men' or something. Of course, when put on the spot about their willful whitewashing, they'll fall back on lame stock answers like "I don't know if I could write a character like that right" or "My character can be anyone" (yeah, right). It's obvious that Ms. Chand got the Facebook update that not only do characters of color exist in contemporary settings, but it's not rocket science to write characters who are just like real people and not stereotypes. Simmi, Alex and Shapri could be found in practically any high school in America. The only difference is her teenagers just so happen to possess preternatural powers abnd struggle with all the responsibility of what such gifts bring.
I’m going to do my damndest not to give away too much, but truthfully, this book was a love/hate relationship. Overall I loved it and am now eagerly chomping at the bit for Shapri's story. Open Heart was just as intense as Farsighted and perhaps even more so since the main character Simmi is dealing with a crisis just as debilitating as Alex's blindness. She's suffering from serious self-esteem issues and she's also is distancing herself from her power of clarsentience out of fear she could hurt or kill someone accidentally. Suddenly, the self-assured, kick-ass girl with the huge smarts from the first book doubts everything about herself, including how much boyfriend Alex loves her. It’s highly ironic that she can use her powers to make others feel better, but can’t save herself from the controlling cycle of binging and purging that has begun to take over her life. I kept wanting to grab Simmi around her head and shake some sense into her. Unfortunately Simmi's fictional issue with weight is one that many struggle with in real life. The scenes of her convincing herself while bent over the toilet bowl were so painful to read. They were crafted with an immediacy that put me right there as a reader in the bathroom and unable to do anything to help.
The hate part also belongs to Simmi (for reasons that I will not give away), but it all stems from her self-hate.
Can I spare a few sentences for Alex? Okay I'm fangirling over Alex. Forget all the stalker-I-love-you-I-hate-you fake boyfriends littering the YA landscape. Alex is just awesome and the love he feels for Simmi felt that it came from a real and honest place. I love his loyalty, and I understand his discomfort about having the guy who'd he been dreaming about murdering his girlfriend now living under his roof.
My only quibble is that Open Heart felt a little unfinished. There’s a whole bunch of strangers moving into the sleepy little town of Grandon, some of them even possess psychic powers, but there’s no explanation as to why or how.
Open Heart is a wonderfully emotional roller-coaster of a book with characters who feel as real to be as best friends. Now, hurry up with Shapri's story!!!
May 28, 2012
The first thing that I want to clarify is that this review maybe a bit biased. I know we, reviewers, are supposed to be unbiased and fair. But in this case I cannot help it. I absolutely loved Farsighted and I am even more partial to Open Heart because it is narrated from Simmi’s point of view. And well, Emlyn Chand has done it again!
The first thing that stands out in this book is its characters. We have a few new characters introduced to us in this second installment. The biggest advantage of having the second book written in a different perspective is that because Farsighted was written from Alex’s perspective, we saw the other characters through his point of view. Now, Open heart gives us a glimpse of the same characters from Simmi’s perspective. We are able to understand Simmi’s psyche and the reasons behind her eating disorder. Alex is no longer the one you would root for – instead he seems like an insecure boyfriend. Dax is the same mysterious guy and I just love Murray! Who is he you ask? – Well, he is one of the new characters introduced and he is the universal definition of the “Ideal Guy”. And of course, there is a new enemy in town too – so you better not trust anybody new in town!
The plot is also quite good. The story takes up from where Farsighted left off. Started off with the trip over the summer and then back to high school drama. It was all about boyfriends, school rivalry, secrets – all with a dash of psychic elements. Somehow I felt that this book was less about psychic elements and more about normal teenage issues like insecurities and bulimia.
Of course, the authors writing style is smooth and flawless! Extra kudos for capturing the Indian culture and weaving it in the story!
The first thing that stands out in this book is its characters. We have a few new characters introduced to us in this second installment. The biggest advantage of having the second book written in a different perspective is that because Farsighted was written from Alex’s perspective, we saw the other characters through his point of view. Now, Open heart gives us a glimpse of the same characters from Simmi’s perspective. We are able to understand Simmi’s psyche and the reasons behind her eating disorder. Alex is no longer the one you would root for – instead he seems like an insecure boyfriend. Dax is the same mysterious guy and I just love Murray! Who is he you ask? – Well, he is one of the new characters introduced and he is the universal definition of the “Ideal Guy”. And of course, there is a new enemy in town too – so you better not trust anybody new in town!
The plot is also quite good. The story takes up from where Farsighted left off. Started off with the trip over the summer and then back to high school drama. It was all about boyfriends, school rivalry, secrets – all with a dash of psychic elements. Somehow I felt that this book was less about psychic elements and more about normal teenage issues like insecurities and bulimia.
Of course, the authors writing style is smooth and flawless! Extra kudos for capturing the Indian culture and weaving it in the story!
May 16, 2012
I loved this book. I read it in a day, give or take a few, and just wanted to find out what happened next. There is a paranormal aspect to this book, a mystery that controls the aspects of the characters lives but it takes a backseat to them and their relationships.
It takes the same characters from Farsighted, but now we're inside Simmi's head instead of Alex's. Simmi is a sympathetic lead and one I wanted to be friends with and kill at the same time. She's hard on herself like alot of teen girls are and she compares herself to the thing, perfect girls she thinks other people expect her to be.
I would love to hug her and tell her it's going to be okay, people love her for who she is, and she doesn't need to change. I think alot of girls need that and I hope by reading how hateful Simmi's own thoughts about herself can be, girls will realize how destructive this self talk is.
Simmi's inner turmoil and struggles are forefront in my mind, because they are simular to my own. I'm a binge eater, no secret there, and Simmi takes this a step further. She's endangering her health, her relationships, and her health, though she never thinks of it this way exactly. Though I am sure she knows it can't continue forever.
Her struggles are real and feel that way from the first time she's embarrassed at the mall. I know the self-loathing she feels shopping with friends, or just going to school. The author did a great job of portraying it and also pouring her heart onto the pages.
Simmi and Alex are dating and it's fun, interesting to see Alex from a different point of view, if you have read Farsighted. Alex becomes that clingy boyfriend, desperate not to lose his girlfriend. Oh, Alex. If only I could smack you upside the head. He's a nice boy and Simmi is a nice girl, so that means this is a match made in heaven, right?
I am trying not to spoil too much. I know I enjoyed this book immensely and the slow burn of suspense that builds from the characters interactions. I enjoy high octane chase-fight-action oriented fiction most of the time. This pace was slower than that, but in no way less enjoyable.
Here the characters are center stage. Their relationships and their days are what is most important. It's almost like being a 6th wheel and you're the invisible friend, tagging along. It was fun and I loved every minute of it. Highly recommended.
There are moments where you will route for everyone in the book, be it Simmi, Dax, Alex, Sharpi, and newcomer to the group Murray. Ahh, Murray, when you grow up, you're the guy all the girls are going to want to marry, I'm sure of it.
It takes the same characters from Farsighted, but now we're inside Simmi's head instead of Alex's. Simmi is a sympathetic lead and one I wanted to be friends with and kill at the same time. She's hard on herself like alot of teen girls are and she compares herself to the thing, perfect girls she thinks other people expect her to be.
I would love to hug her and tell her it's going to be okay, people love her for who she is, and she doesn't need to change. I think alot of girls need that and I hope by reading how hateful Simmi's own thoughts about herself can be, girls will realize how destructive this self talk is.
Simmi's inner turmoil and struggles are forefront in my mind, because they are simular to my own. I'm a binge eater, no secret there, and Simmi takes this a step further. She's endangering her health, her relationships, and her health, though she never thinks of it this way exactly. Though I am sure she knows it can't continue forever.
Her struggles are real and feel that way from the first time she's embarrassed at the mall. I know the self-loathing she feels shopping with friends, or just going to school. The author did a great job of portraying it and also pouring her heart onto the pages.
Simmi and Alex are dating and it's fun, interesting to see Alex from a different point of view, if you have read Farsighted. Alex becomes that clingy boyfriend, desperate not to lose his girlfriend. Oh, Alex. If only I could smack you upside the head. He's a nice boy and Simmi is a nice girl, so that means this is a match made in heaven, right?
I am trying not to spoil too much. I know I enjoyed this book immensely and the slow burn of suspense that builds from the characters interactions. I enjoy high octane chase-fight-action oriented fiction most of the time. This pace was slower than that, but in no way less enjoyable.
Here the characters are center stage. Their relationships and their days are what is most important. It's almost like being a 6th wheel and you're the invisible friend, tagging along. It was fun and I loved every minute of it. Highly recommended.
There are moments where you will route for everyone in the book, be it Simmi, Dax, Alex, Sharpi, and newcomer to the group Murray. Ahh, Murray, when you grow up, you're the guy all the girls are going to want to marry, I'm sure of it.
February 7, 2013
Open Heart eliminated any doubts I had about the Farsighted series. Simmi’s story completely surprised me and exceeded my expectations. Open Heart picks up where Farsighted left off. Dax is now living with Alex and has become the latest torn in his side. At this point, I’ve become immune to Alex’s sullenness and since the story isn’t from his point of view, I was able to whip right through this one. In Farsighted Simmi was presented the way Alex saw her: Nice & Sweet. But there’s so much more to her personality. As I suspected, she had ulterior motives for advancing her and Alex’s relationship. It was an eerie feeling to read this and think back to Farsighted. The Simmi from book one was so much in opposition to this one that it was almost like reading about two different girls. I liked both portrayals of her, but Simmi through her own eyes really struck a chord. I was able to relate to her on so many levels. Like many teenage girls, Simmi has insecurities about her body, relationships and life in general. She fears her powers. She questions her love life. She has physical flaws in which she amplifies in her mind to the point of developing an eating disorder. While I’m sure no one in the real world has experienced the level of young adult supernatural and hormonal complexity as Simmi, there’s definitely a topic we can snip from her life that’ll resonate on one level or another. I am pleased to announce that after this, I am highly anticipating continuing on with this series. I’m even more excited to read Shapri’s story.
*A copy of this novel was provided courtesy of the author for an honest review.
*A copy of this novel was provided courtesy of the author for an honest review.
June 13, 2012
Gosh I don't know where to begin! I usually start by mentioning that I never read YA books and therefore never feel particularly qualified to offer an opinion on them, but considering the amount of YA books that I have read in the last six months I think it is safe to assume that this is no longer true.
I read Farsighted #1 last year and liked it just fine...but you know what I love about THIS particular book? I just can't stop thinking "Damn Ms Chand - you've outdone yourself!" Simmi's character is so well-rounded (and no I don't mean fat!), so acutely observant and so brutally honest that you cannot help but applaud Emlyn Chand's efforts. There is no shying away from tough subjects like bulemia or betrayal - it all just hangs out. And I think the best part is that all the insecurity is presented in such a way that instead of relating to it you recognize it. I don't know how else to put it. Simmi does things and thinks things that make you go "oh you silly little girl stop being so hard on yourself!" but then you have to admit that you - another silly little girl! - like to be just as hard on yourself.
I know Simmi has gotten a lot of flak from others for her weaknesses, but I truly do love her. It's so refreshing to be presented with a non-perfect character who isn't prancing around in her blonde ambitious glory trying to convince you that she is too thin...
Thanks Emlyn! Looking forward to the next one :)
I read Farsighted #1 last year and liked it just fine...but you know what I love about THIS particular book? I just can't stop thinking "Damn Ms Chand - you've outdone yourself!" Simmi's character is so well-rounded (and no I don't mean fat!), so acutely observant and so brutally honest that you cannot help but applaud Emlyn Chand's efforts. There is no shying away from tough subjects like bulemia or betrayal - it all just hangs out. And I think the best part is that all the insecurity is presented in such a way that instead of relating to it you recognize it. I don't know how else to put it. Simmi does things and thinks things that make you go "oh you silly little girl stop being so hard on yourself!" but then you have to admit that you - another silly little girl! - like to be just as hard on yourself.
I know Simmi has gotten a lot of flak from others for her weaknesses, but I truly do love her. It's so refreshing to be presented with a non-perfect character who isn't prancing around in her blonde ambitious glory trying to convince you that she is too thin...
Thanks Emlyn! Looking forward to the next one :)
March 7, 2013
Simmi has a lot of issues to overcome in this story. With her eating disorder, low self-esteem, self-doubt, true feelings, hidden feelings and relationships her life seems to be in a constant state of uncertainty. I both love and hate her in this story. I guess I shouldn’t say hate, maybe the perfect word is frustrated.
It seems Alex couldn’t catch a break in this book. A lot of things in this story didn’t go as he would have liked and I couldn’t help but shake my head at some of his solutions to certain issues. Plus Alex’s refusal to trust Dax of course complicates matters which brings tension and discord into his life and relationships.
We get introduces to more gifted characters and not everyone seems to be on the up and up. Ronnie is one of them. She is new at school and is pretty much intolerable. Then we have Murray. I took a liken to him instantly and hope to read more about him.
This was a well-paced, mostly *wink wink* pleasant read with a great set of characters. A ton of things were going on in this book and kept me on my toes. I look forward to reading more novels in this series and thank goodness the next one comes out soon!
It seems Alex couldn’t catch a break in this book. A lot of things in this story didn’t go as he would have liked and I couldn’t help but shake my head at some of his solutions to certain issues. Plus Alex’s refusal to trust Dax of course complicates matters which brings tension and discord into his life and relationships.
We get introduces to more gifted characters and not everyone seems to be on the up and up. Ronnie is one of them. She is new at school and is pretty much intolerable. Then we have Murray. I took a liken to him instantly and hope to read more about him.
This was a well-paced, mostly *wink wink* pleasant read with a great set of characters. A ton of things were going on in this book and kept me on my toes. I look forward to reading more novels in this series and thank goodness the next one comes out soon!
May 19, 2012
The author gave me an ARC ebook for free. This book was great. I loved it. I enjoyed reading the story through Simmi's point of view and learning of the struggles she faces in her everyday life. I pasted my teenage years many years ago but can still relate to her character with some of her insecurities and problems she is facing. Some nice twists in the book too or at least some things I didn't see coming while reading Farsighted as told through Alex's point of view. Emlyn Chand knows how to write a book for a teen but also for adults too. An incredible author. She writes beautifully; the characters will become part of you.
May 24, 2012
This book was a very good read. If you liked Farsighted, you will love Open Heart.
This novel is engaging and has a good pace throughout the book, keeping the reader's interest. The twists in the story are done well and make one eager for the next installment in this series.
I think the character of Simmi was very well done. She is very dynamic. I found myself hating her through most of the book, yet still liking the book. The glimpse into the mindset of a teenage girl with an eating disorder is eye opening. I believe it is something that a lot of girls can relate to.
This novel is engaging and has a good pace throughout the book, keeping the reader's interest. The twists in the story are done well and make one eager for the next installment in this series.
I think the character of Simmi was very well done. She is very dynamic. I found myself hating her through most of the book, yet still liking the book. The glimpse into the mindset of a teenage girl with an eating disorder is eye opening. I believe it is something that a lot of girls can relate to.
February 29, 2012
can't wait to read it!!!!
May 30, 2012
In order to save time later in the week, I'm going to write this review as I read it. Now that I'm more familiar with Emlyn's writing style, I think this is appropriate, also I'm super excited to share another good book with you.
First, you can find Emlyn Chand here: at www.emlynchand.com On her site, she has tons of links and fun things to do including quizzes and links to her twitter, Goodreads profile and son on.
Part 1: Root
First, I'll have to point out that the Farsighted series is very visually appealing. It makes me feel like I'm reading an actual book on a web based app. I love that the layout is so very carefully laid out. It's so much more enjoyable than a crappy pdf. (Pdf's can be done well too, but I've seen some awful ones.
[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="271"]
Awful Like Kirk Awful.[/caption]
Roots is just that, it's an opening, some background into Simmi, where the reader gets information about her, and why she does some of the things she does.
I have to point out that while I've never suffered from an eating disorder, I can identify with it. The scene in the shopping mall where a nasty clerk suggests Simmi go to a 'plus-sized' store has happened to me. I'm a size 12, I don't think realistically any woman and especially any teen should try to live up to single digit size ideals. There's something to be said for being happy with one's self, and I am still learning like most of us.
Part 2: Passion
Hold the Train - Benedict Cumberbatch is playing Khan in the new Star Trek 2? Holy. That's from the link where the terrible Kirk image came from.
OMG OMG OMG, Sherlock is playing KHAN!!!!! EEEEEEE!!!!
Okay, I'm done.
Passion is the section of the book where I knew I wouldn't be able to put it down. I've also got to say I love the way hints are dropped towards the development of the plot line, but never so blatantly obvious as to guess what the outcomes will be.
Chand portrays the main characters with such grace, and by the end of the second section, I am stuck starting to like Dax (who I'd really like to hate). She is a master of story weaving, just like sir Arthur Conan Doyle, and while this isn't exactly the mystery genre, these characters are just as alive to me as Sherlock and Holmes.
At this point I can also say I'm really looking forward to more development of Simmi's body image issues. It lays underneath the dialogue, and the constant self-talk of Simmi's narrative. Image is something I can completely relate to, so a lot of what Simmi says to herself, I've said in the past to myself, and I think the slow development really works to engage the reader and help them feel completely empathetic for the character.
Part 3: Power
This is the section of the book that most reminds me of the cover. That beautiful girl staring at you is powerful - and she knows it. She's also a little afraid of her power, and the powers all around her whether they are the powerful Dax, or the powerful-in-a-different-way Alex who keeps telling her he loves her. It's also where the love triangle gets interesting, and I've decided I'll just read to the end of the book before posting the rest of this review.
From Heart to Crown
Stay tuned for part 2. My week has been super crazy, and it isn't letting up. (The crazy that is. :P) ???
Plus, that way I'll have two posts/reviews to share with you, and twice as many tweets for Emlyn :).
"I like being myself. Myself and nasty." ~ Aldous Huxley
As a final note, I have to say what I appreciate most about this series and Emlyn Chand is how thought out not only the book is, but the book club, quizzes, marketing and song lists for the characters are.
In other great news, if you haven't read the first book in the Farsighted Series, Farsighted - it's free all weekend on Amazon. You can get it for yourself, right here.
Related articles
Benedict Cumberbatch: 'I know nothing about Star Trek world' (digitalspy.co.uk)
Announcing a busy month, and blog tours! Yay! (naimeless.wordpress.com)
"Sherlock's" masterful return (salon.com)
From Heart to Crown, Part 2
The first point I must make is that it is always interesting to read the second book in a series. It's a lot like the second movie of a trilogy - you know, like Khan. (Clearly not JUST a trilogy, but you get the point.)
It's a little something like this. We need the first book for obvious reason, but like the Star Trek, it's not until the second movie that the audience falls in love with the series.
In the case of Star Trek, we're quite happy for it to go on FOREVER. (It has to go on forever, I can't imagine a life with out it :P.)
Open Heart is exactly the same! This is the book where readers get to fall in love with the characters, delve into them as people, and in this case real people with real problems.
[caption id="" align="alignright" width="201"]
Yay! More dessert![/caption]
I hope Farsighted goes on for a good, LONG time, because I can't WAIT to read Pitch (#3 and counting!).
There's a lot of Star Trek, and equally a lot of Sherlock ~ the Benedict Cumberbatch one. (Clearly because he's the best.) My previous analogy to Dax/Sherlock/Khan still holds true. I'm 'slightly' older than the teenagers in the book I realize, so picturing Dax as a sexy Sherlock/Khan 'bad' guy who wants so badly to be good (deep down inside?) makes sense to me. I love Dax as a character, and I actually think if Simmi gets her heart and head straight they could be really good together.
Heart to Crown
She was right - like good authors always are! Emlyn made a comment on Part 1 of this review about the end of this section. I think the first time Dax lifted Simmi off the ground and they looked up at the stars has to be my favorite moment of the entire book. It was beautifully written, and it's something I've secretly tried to do my entire life. (Well, since I started watching star trek anyway).
The developments from this are fast paced and a mix of sad, happy, devastating and revealing. I can say that I really hope more is discussed about Simmi's binging and self image in further books. Eating disorders are a huge topic and a challenge to write about (also very personal), but Emlyn does a beautiful job of being both tactful and honest. I'm looking forward to see how Simmi will deal with and hopefully overcome her problems.
I won't give more away than that because it just goes WAY up hill, really fast from there. This was the part of the book I couldn't read fast enough to satisfy my curiosity. I'm so looking forward to the third book, and for the record, I think the set up for the continuing plot line was amazing.
There are quite a few more twists and turns in this book compared to Farsighted, and I'll say again, just in case you don't read the first part that the visual aspect of this publication is top notch :D.
Thanks Emlyn, you always make reading enjoyable, and open up great new worlds in my imagination!
Related articles
Open Heart: Star Trek meets Sherlock (Part 1) (naimeless.wordpress.com)
Star Trek 2 Khan-troversy of the Day (geeks.thedailywh.at)
First, you can find Emlyn Chand here: at www.emlynchand.com On her site, she has tons of links and fun things to do including quizzes and links to her twitter, Goodreads profile and son on.Part 1: Root
First, I'll have to point out that the Farsighted series is very visually appealing. It makes me feel like I'm reading an actual book on a web based app. I love that the layout is so very carefully laid out. It's so much more enjoyable than a crappy pdf. (Pdf's can be done well too, but I've seen some awful ones.
[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="271"]
Awful Like Kirk Awful.[/caption]Roots is just that, it's an opening, some background into Simmi, where the reader gets information about her, and why she does some of the things she does.
I have to point out that while I've never suffered from an eating disorder, I can identify with it. The scene in the shopping mall where a nasty clerk suggests Simmi go to a 'plus-sized' store has happened to me. I'm a size 12, I don't think realistically any woman and especially any teen should try to live up to single digit size ideals. There's something to be said for being happy with one's self, and I am still learning like most of us.
Part 2: Passion
Hold the Train - Benedict Cumberbatch is playing Khan in the new Star Trek 2? Holy. That's from the link where the terrible Kirk image came from.
OMG OMG OMG, Sherlock is playing KHAN!!!!! EEEEEEE!!!!
Okay, I'm done.
Passion is the section of the book where I knew I wouldn't be able to put it down. I've also got to say I love the way hints are dropped towards the development of the plot line, but never so blatantly obvious as to guess what the outcomes will be.
Chand portrays the main characters with such grace, and by the end of the second section, I am stuck starting to like Dax (who I'd really like to hate). She is a master of story weaving, just like sir Arthur Conan Doyle, and while this isn't exactly the mystery genre, these characters are just as alive to me as Sherlock and Holmes.
At this point I can also say I'm really looking forward to more development of Simmi's body image issues. It lays underneath the dialogue, and the constant self-talk of Simmi's narrative. Image is something I can completely relate to, so a lot of what Simmi says to herself, I've said in the past to myself, and I think the slow development really works to engage the reader and help them feel completely empathetic for the character.
Part 3: Power
This is the section of the book that most reminds me of the cover. That beautiful girl staring at you is powerful - and she knows it. She's also a little afraid of her power, and the powers all around her whether they are the powerful Dax, or the powerful-in-a-different-way Alex who keeps telling her he loves her. It's also where the love triangle gets interesting, and I've decided I'll just read to the end of the book before posting the rest of this review.
From Heart to Crown
Stay tuned for part 2. My week has been super crazy, and it isn't letting up. (The crazy that is. :P) ???
Plus, that way I'll have two posts/reviews to share with you, and twice as many tweets for Emlyn :).
"I like being myself. Myself and nasty." ~ Aldous Huxley
As a final note, I have to say what I appreciate most about this series and Emlyn Chand is how thought out not only the book is, but the book club, quizzes, marketing and song lists for the characters are.
In other great news, if you haven't read the first book in the Farsighted Series, Farsighted - it's free all weekend on Amazon. You can get it for yourself, right here.
Related articles
Benedict Cumberbatch: 'I know nothing about Star Trek world' (digitalspy.co.uk)
Announcing a busy month, and blog tours! Yay! (naimeless.wordpress.com)
"Sherlock's" masterful return (salon.com)
From Heart to Crown, Part 2
The first point I must make is that it is always interesting to read the second book in a series. It's a lot like the second movie of a trilogy - you know, like Khan. (Clearly not JUST a trilogy, but you get the point.)
It's a little something like this. We need the first book for obvious reason, but like the Star Trek, it's not until the second movie that the audience falls in love with the series.
In the case of Star Trek, we're quite happy for it to go on FOREVER. (It has to go on forever, I can't imagine a life with out it :P.)
Open Heart is exactly the same! This is the book where readers get to fall in love with the characters, delve into them as people, and in this case real people with real problems.
[caption id="" align="alignright" width="201"]
Yay! More dessert![/caption]I hope Farsighted goes on for a good, LONG time, because I can't WAIT to read Pitch (#3 and counting!).
There's a lot of Star Trek, and equally a lot of Sherlock ~ the Benedict Cumberbatch one. (Clearly because he's the best.) My previous analogy to Dax/Sherlock/Khan still holds true. I'm 'slightly' older than the teenagers in the book I realize, so picturing Dax as a sexy Sherlock/Khan 'bad' guy who wants so badly to be good (deep down inside?) makes sense to me. I love Dax as a character, and I actually think if Simmi gets her heart and head straight they could be really good together.
Heart to Crown
She was right - like good authors always are! Emlyn made a comment on Part 1 of this review about the end of this section. I think the first time Dax lifted Simmi off the ground and they looked up at the stars has to be my favorite moment of the entire book. It was beautifully written, and it's something I've secretly tried to do my entire life. (Well, since I started watching star trek anyway).
The developments from this are fast paced and a mix of sad, happy, devastating and revealing. I can say that I really hope more is discussed about Simmi's binging and self image in further books. Eating disorders are a huge topic and a challenge to write about (also very personal), but Emlyn does a beautiful job of being both tactful and honest. I'm looking forward to see how Simmi will deal with and hopefully overcome her problems.
I won't give more away than that because it just goes WAY up hill, really fast from there. This was the part of the book I couldn't read fast enough to satisfy my curiosity. I'm so looking forward to the third book, and for the record, I think the set up for the continuing plot line was amazing.
There are quite a few more twists and turns in this book compared to Farsighted, and I'll say again, just in case you don't read the first part that the visual aspect of this publication is top notch :D.
Thanks Emlyn, you always make reading enjoyable, and open up great new worlds in my imagination!
Related articles
Open Heart: Star Trek meets Sherlock (Part 1) (naimeless.wordpress.com)
Star Trek 2 Khan-troversy of the Day (geeks.thedailywh.at)
August 14, 2012
I love reading book series and was especially excited to be able to read them as part of two book tours for Ms. Emlyn Chand. I am so happy I did, especially now that I have finished Open Heart.
One thing I do want to say before I go into the review of Open Heart are the new cover for Farsighted and collection of covers for the rest of the series are amazingly beautiful. I was privy to be able to do a cover reveal for not only Open Heart but the upcoming third novel due out Spring of 2013. I now have seen the rest of the series covers and cannot wait to do some more cover reveals as well as read the books (spoken like a true "Cover Lover"). 
Another kudos' point of a more serious nature, is Ms. Chand's featuring a group of character's that are not the stereo typical cast of pretty white girls and boys who are cheerleaders and the quarter-backs with the tragic scape goats being taunted and bullied. Here the heroes are the disabled, geeky, multicultural and socioeconomic standing. Here the ones that save the day or have the advantage are the underdogs of highschool. In other words, the majority of the student body.
Unlike my bubbly rambling review of Farsighted, I hope, as with the book, this review takes a bit more serious (and yet still fun...like the book) voice. Open Heart is, again, a true young-adult novel. But more importantly, it is a book with a very strong and serious message within its pages. It deals directly with body image and eating disorders, specifically bulimia. The author, unlike many books labeled as Y.A has a very clear warning about this and other mature situations in the book more poignantly directed at the older teen. After all, our protagonist, Simme is hovering near 17 and is dealing with her own body image, the acquiring of her eating disorder as well as embarking into the world of being "sexually active". There is some violence, labeled minor (I concur) which makes this book one I would recommend for parents and their teens starting no younger than the age of 14 -16. I wouldn't let my Willow, age 13 turning 14 in December, read the book yet but I would want her to read it next year when she starts high school (10th grade). It is another book that will open up dialogue, hence why it is a real YA Book.
Having said all that let's talk about the story, or at least a sliver of the aspect of it because there are a lot different things we can discuss since Emlyn has incorporated a lot of incredible messages. Choosing what to talk about is killing me. On one hand we have the synopsis reading "Simmi's loyalty is on the line. Who will she choose--the blind seer who loves her, or the charming telekinetic with "bad idea" written all over him? Emotions run high as the tension mounts in book two of the Farsighted series." this definitely is one aspect of Simmi's life that is addressed, and it does take up a large point of the story, but what about dealing with continuing the paranormal aspects from the end of Farsighted we are left with the wreckage being cleaned up after Simmi saves lives of animals and public alike with her own emerging paranormal power in this instance.
There is so much to talk about with this book, the complexities of the writing, the allegory with certain scenes has a myriad of messages for the reader I am somewhat at a loss of where to begin.
Our heroine, Simmi, is considered (or considers herself) the fat girl, she is from India and we get to be her cheerleaders in her battle as well as get a huge exposure of the Indian culture and family structure. The thing is, Simmi is like the majority of all high school teens. She sees herself as plain, even ugly, fat and undesirable. Her safe relationship with Alex because he cannot "see" is being threatened by her attraction to the pretty bad boy, Dax. Though a very normal story arc, Open Heart in no way takes on this typical scenario in the normal fashion. Even if you took out the paranormal aspects, the weaving of the Chakra's and the literary references Ms. Chand uses add more things to consider and think about. It is a dense wonderful heart stomping, stopping and wrenching read.
I cried several times throughout the book. I remember feeling like the fat girl in high school but when I look back at those images I was a size 12 too and in no way was I fat, I was rock hard muscle, but when I looked in the mirror I saw the girl who was called fat because of my non coke or bulimic induced size 2. I was "the other", an athlete, a smart girl, a book nerd, the newspaper and year book geek who hung out with the math and chess geeks as well as someone in choir and theater. Though I never got the starring roles like our Simmi nor did I ever have the confidence she with her talent. But like Simmi, I know theater was one of my escape routes when I needed to feel pretty, (Simmi singing "I Feel Pretty" was NOT an accident nor was the choice of West Side Story as the play), by becoming someone else on the stage so I did not have to look in the mirror. Later on in life, because no one addressed my issues I became the fat mom, the woman who to this day looks in the mirror and when I was at my thinnest a couple years back, I still saw a fat girl. The story is beautiful and heart breaking.
I blazed through the book and found myself sad to see my progression percentage getting further and further along... I did not want the story to end. However, I am pretty sure this is not going to be a favorite in the series for all of the fans, because of the subject matter being so hard addressed in such a manner. I need a "Team Simmi" shirt because it is one of mine. I found Open Heart addressing very real aspects which happen in every girl's and woman's world.
Consider the fact despite one of the parents having the ability read minds, he never is able to discern Simmi is in danger from herself with her eating disorder. It is easier to address her not dealing with her emerging paranormal abilities. Yes she does her best to not think about things around him, and Emlyn does make a point of this when Simmis keeps humming "Who Let the Dogs Out" but there is no way this would keep her safe all the time. I saw it as a statement towards society in a whole. We ignore issues that the female gender faces on a daily basis. Even in this enlightened age woman's issues are swept under the rug and ignored, much like Mr. K does with Simmi.
Open Heart's and Ms. Emlyn's messages state something very bold; even in today's world it is easier to deal with the absurd (the paranormal), or the general acceptable things teens face, then it is to deal with specific things that FEMALE teens face. Even her Dax, who recognizes she is bulimic, wordlessly showing support and understanding, though not an actual enabler, never actively is shown trying to help her. What is Ms. Chand saying with those red M&Ms? The Open Heart here are these messages, the red M&M's a drop of blood being bled daily in the mirrors and scale junkies before class in the morning. You do not need a special paranormal gift to read minds, or calm emotions to see this. An open heart for the readers to see, laid out on a table of teenage angst, of girls dreams being smashed by themselves in the much of destructive behavior.
I only had a wee problem, and this is me wanting a bit story because I am not a teen dealing with this stuff anymore, was more of the paranormal to bring a bit of balance. I can see how this would be hard to do when a book deals with so many serious subjects and has so many statements being made. I do not think the fictional tale with our paranormal teenage heroes, gets left behind, just more stage left instead of center stage,but Simmi is the TRUE star after all isn't she? So it is not a to considerable problem but I do wish there was a tad bit more. Putting it right after Farsighted it is nicely balanced. We have a story from the blind hero's point of view his world is focused around what he "sees" in his visions where as Simmi's voice is based on seeing the world around her and yet not being able to "see" herself for who she truly is. For the subject matter this probably was a good choice.. oh dear I am rambling and I promised I wouldn't do that!
I want a "Team Simmi" shirt.. seriously. She is my favorite character in the series and she has made my top five favorite leading ladies from my reads this year for sure! Ms. Chand hit another out of the park. PITCH, book 3, is going to from our ghost whisperers point of view, mid-2013 cannot come soon enough!
February 17, 2013
Open Heart picks up where Farsighted left off, a few months later. Alex and Simmi are still dating, and are getting ready to start the next school year. Dax has been living with Alex and his family. Alex, despite most everyone's acceptance of Dax and Alex's father's reassurances that Dax is being honest, still doesn't like or trust him and has been keeping Simmi away from him. Whereas Farsighted was from Alex's POV, Open Heart is from Simmi's. I like that the author decided to change the POV for each of the books in this series. This really gives us great insight into each character that we would not have gotten if the books remained solely from Alex's POV.
Open Heart is really Simmi's journey of understanding herself, or at least trying to. Despite being loved by Alex, having a best friend in Shapri, being safe from the doom she feared in Farsighted, and the opportunity to enhance her "gift," Simmi really struggles throughout the entire book. This struggle centers initially around her poor body image and control issues, developing into an eating disorder. It is a bit difficult to say where these struggles actually began. Was it when her life was in jeopardy? Or was it before that, when she started dating Alex and "stole" him from Shapri? Regardless, Ms. Chand does a great job showing Simmi's internal struggles, her insecurities, her fears, her doubts, and going so far as to show her justifications and excuses when the choices she makes not only affect her, but those around her. She shows us the depth of Simmi's disorder. Her issues get out of control, while she is trying to keep control of herself. But an eating disorder isn't her only issue. She's looking at Dax, and he's looking back. Her choices begin to not only affect her, but those around her, some in haunting, irreparable ways.
I continue to appreciate that Ms. Chand has written a series that brings together characters of multiple ethnicities, and even disabilities. These are not cookie-cutter characters and she does not baby them. They are imperfect people and make good, as well as poor, choices. They may be "gifted" but that does not mean they necessarily have the wisdom, nor the maturity, to handle their lives. These are still teenagers, and Ms. Chand writes their flaws, as well as their humanity, well.
With that said, I will also say that I still waiver in my feelings toward some of these characters. I had mixed feelings with Alex throughout Farsighted (though I've developed a fondness for him in this book), and I have mixed feelings with Simmi in Open Heart. Although, honestly, even by the end of the novel, and in spite of her struggles, I can't say that I like Simmi all that much yet. I empathize with her certainly. I remember having body image issues and insecurities. But her actions as the book progressed and the choices that she made that affected others were really what bothered me. She tried to justify herself, and waivered in her feelings toward Alex, but I really felt like she was dishonest and was using him and I could not get behind her actions. I also continue to question her motives by the end and look forward to seeing what she does in the next book, especially with her "gift" and her relationship. Dax made poor choices as well, and I didn't appreciate all his actions, though it appears he attempted to make better decisions than Simmi, which I could appreciate.
While I liked this book, there were, however, a few things missing for me: 1) Simmi's lack of personality - While we had a lot of her internal dialogue and could understand what she was going through, I didn't see much of her dialogue between other characters that would have built the depth of those relationships, and especially any potential love interest. While I can understand her physical beauty and musical talent, I would have liked more actual verbal interaction to justify some of the things going on later in the book. I had a hard time seeing the appeal of her personality; 2) The ending felt a bit rushed and I was disappointed that the characters did not have a big enough reaction over the very sad outcome; 3) Lack of consequences to Simmi's choices (outside of one major outcome), though I don't know if that's because of her "gift" or because the consequences just weren't severe enough for my liking. I would have thought her friendships would have been affected more.
Bottomline: I really like the direction of this series. I love seeing the diversity of these characters. They feel real and flawed, having these "gifts" without the maturity to always be able to handle them right, yet also dealing with normal teenage issues. Ms. Chand creates a great voice for her characters and takes the reader on a unique journey, not only with the character development, but with the intense supernatural situations around them. I look forward to continuing this series. I'm particularly looking forward to Shapri's book, PITCH, which is next, because she's my favorite character so far.
** A review copy was provided to me for my honest review.
Open Heart is really Simmi's journey of understanding herself, or at least trying to. Despite being loved by Alex, having a best friend in Shapri, being safe from the doom she feared in Farsighted, and the opportunity to enhance her "gift," Simmi really struggles throughout the entire book. This struggle centers initially around her poor body image and control issues, developing into an eating disorder. It is a bit difficult to say where these struggles actually began. Was it when her life was in jeopardy? Or was it before that, when she started dating Alex and "stole" him from Shapri? Regardless, Ms. Chand does a great job showing Simmi's internal struggles, her insecurities, her fears, her doubts, and going so far as to show her justifications and excuses when the choices she makes not only affect her, but those around her. She shows us the depth of Simmi's disorder. Her issues get out of control, while she is trying to keep control of herself. But an eating disorder isn't her only issue. She's looking at Dax, and he's looking back. Her choices begin to not only affect her, but those around her, some in haunting, irreparable ways.
I continue to appreciate that Ms. Chand has written a series that brings together characters of multiple ethnicities, and even disabilities. These are not cookie-cutter characters and she does not baby them. They are imperfect people and make good, as well as poor, choices. They may be "gifted" but that does not mean they necessarily have the wisdom, nor the maturity, to handle their lives. These are still teenagers, and Ms. Chand writes their flaws, as well as their humanity, well.
With that said, I will also say that I still waiver in my feelings toward some of these characters. I had mixed feelings with Alex throughout Farsighted (though I've developed a fondness for him in this book), and I have mixed feelings with Simmi in Open Heart. Although, honestly, even by the end of the novel, and in spite of her struggles, I can't say that I like Simmi all that much yet. I empathize with her certainly. I remember having body image issues and insecurities. But her actions as the book progressed and the choices that she made that affected others were really what bothered me. She tried to justify herself, and waivered in her feelings toward Alex, but I really felt like she was dishonest and was using him and I could not get behind her actions. I also continue to question her motives by the end and look forward to seeing what she does in the next book, especially with her "gift" and her relationship. Dax made poor choices as well, and I didn't appreciate all his actions, though it appears he attempted to make better decisions than Simmi, which I could appreciate.
While I liked this book, there were, however, a few things missing for me: 1) Simmi's lack of personality - While we had a lot of her internal dialogue and could understand what she was going through, I didn't see much of her dialogue between other characters that would have built the depth of those relationships, and especially any potential love interest. While I can understand her physical beauty and musical talent, I would have liked more actual verbal interaction to justify some of the things going on later in the book. I had a hard time seeing the appeal of her personality; 2) The ending felt a bit rushed and I was disappointed that the characters did not have a big enough reaction over the very sad outcome; 3) Lack of consequences to Simmi's choices (outside of one major outcome), though I don't know if that's because of her "gift" or because the consequences just weren't severe enough for my liking. I would have thought her friendships would have been affected more.
Bottomline: I really like the direction of this series. I love seeing the diversity of these characters. They feel real and flawed, having these "gifts" without the maturity to always be able to handle them right, yet also dealing with normal teenage issues. Ms. Chand creates a great voice for her characters and takes the reader on a unique journey, not only with the character development, but with the intense supernatural situations around them. I look forward to continuing this series. I'm particularly looking forward to Shapri's book, PITCH, which is next, because she's my favorite character so far.
** A review copy was provided to me for my honest review.
March 9, 2013
Originally posted here (scroll down for Englihs): http://theloyalbook.blogspot.it/2013/...
Open Heart è il secondo libro della serie Farsighted (la recensione del primo volume la potete trovare QUI) e devo dire che è decisamente diverso. In primo luogo per il cambio di voce narrante; se nel primo è Alex che ci conduce dentro la storia, questa volta è Simmi, la sua ragazza indiana, a raccontare gli eventi. Inoltre anche il focus mi sembra leggermente cambiato: nel primo libro ci si concentra sulla scoperta dei poteri di Alex, mentre questa volta mi sembra che l'attenzione sia più sui problemi di Simmi e solo in seconda istanza sui suoi poteri.
La storia riprendere dove l'avevamo lasciata; Simmi e Alex sono una coppia, Shapri è amica di entrambi, Dax è malvisto da Alex che fa di tutto per tenerlo lontano da Simmi, che nel frattempo non vuole più coltivare i suoi poteri, spaventata dagli effetti che potrebbero avere, e deve anche fare i conti con il suo aspetto. Simmi infatti vorrebbe dimagrire e sceglie la via peggiore per raggiungere il suo scopo.
Simmi è un personaggio interessante (ma continuo a preferire Shapri), perché ritengo che in molte si possano identificare in lei; le sue insicurezze e le sue paure, il caos delle sue emozioni, sono tutte cose che ogni adolescente ha provato. È comprensibile anche che sia spaventata da quello che i suoi poteri possono fare, anche se a mio parere questo aspetto della storia poteva essere sviluppato ulteriormente. Ho apprezzato il fatto che l'essere indiana di Simmi non è solo una caratteristica nominata tanto per dire, ma un tratto costante della sua personalità e della sua vita: cibi, parole, vestiti. Un po' di diversità culturale mi piace!
Alex in questa storia compare molto meno e un po' mi è dispiaciuto, perché era un personaggio che mi aveva colpito e avrei voluto continuare a seguire la storia dal suo punto di vista. Devo dire che non è molto fortunato in questo libro e mi dispiace per lui! Dax non mi ha convinto pienamente; sono sicura che c'è qualcosa che ancora ci nasconde.
Per quanto riguarda la storia, mi è comunque piaciuta e ho letto il libro in pochissimo tempo; nonostante non ci sia molta azione, perché ero curiosa di vedere come Simmi avrebbe affrontato le varie situazioni. Nella parte finale i vari poteri dei ragazzi ritornano a prendere piede e quindi si preannuncia un prossimo libro alquanto interessante.
La frase che mi ha colpito:
That's the thing about problems. They're personal. No one's are worse than anybody else's.
Il libro è attualmente inedito in Italia.
ENGLISH
Open Heart is the second book in the Farsighted series (you can find my review for Farsigheted HERE) and I have to say that it's really different. First of all, there is a change in the narrating voice of the story; if Alex was our guide in the first book, this time we have Simmi, his Indian girlfriend, who takes us into their story. Moreover, I feel like the focus of the story has shifted; if in the first book the attention was on the discovery of Alex's powers, this time the attention is on Simmi's problems first and then on her powers, though the two things are linked together.
The story picks up some time later¸ Simmi and Alex are a couple, Shapri is friend with both of them, Dax is absolutely unwanted by Alex, who does everything he can to make him stay away Simmi is a pretty interesting character (though I still prefer Shapri) because I believe that it's kind of easy to relate to her, to her insecurities and fears, to her chaos of her emotions; it's something every teenager has experienced. It is understandable that she's afraid of what her powers can do, and I wish this point was further explored. I loved the fact that Simmi is Indian and it's not just something that we know, it's something that we are shown: small sentences, food, clothes… we get the feeling! I love some cultural diversity!
We don't get to see much of Alex this time and I was slightly disappointed, mainly because I really liked him and I would have loved to have his POV, too. And he's not that lucky in this book, so I felt sorry for him! There is also something that didn't quite convince me about Dax; he may be a good guy, but…
from Simmi, who doesn't want to keep working on her powers, afraid of the effects that they could have, and is also struggling with her appearance. Simmi would love to lose weight and chooses the worst way to reach her goal.
As for the story, it's pretty enjoyable and I read the book quickly, even though there is not much action, because I was really curious to discover how Simmi would have faced the situations. In the final part, powers play an important role and I cannot wait to see what happens next!
My favourite quote:
That's the thing about problems. They're personal. No one's are worse than anybody else's.
Open Heart è il secondo libro della serie Farsighted (la recensione del primo volume la potete trovare QUI) e devo dire che è decisamente diverso. In primo luogo per il cambio di voce narrante; se nel primo è Alex che ci conduce dentro la storia, questa volta è Simmi, la sua ragazza indiana, a raccontare gli eventi. Inoltre anche il focus mi sembra leggermente cambiato: nel primo libro ci si concentra sulla scoperta dei poteri di Alex, mentre questa volta mi sembra che l'attenzione sia più sui problemi di Simmi e solo in seconda istanza sui suoi poteri.
La storia riprendere dove l'avevamo lasciata; Simmi e Alex sono una coppia, Shapri è amica di entrambi, Dax è malvisto da Alex che fa di tutto per tenerlo lontano da Simmi, che nel frattempo non vuole più coltivare i suoi poteri, spaventata dagli effetti che potrebbero avere, e deve anche fare i conti con il suo aspetto. Simmi infatti vorrebbe dimagrire e sceglie la via peggiore per raggiungere il suo scopo.
Simmi è un personaggio interessante (ma continuo a preferire Shapri), perché ritengo che in molte si possano identificare in lei; le sue insicurezze e le sue paure, il caos delle sue emozioni, sono tutte cose che ogni adolescente ha provato. È comprensibile anche che sia spaventata da quello che i suoi poteri possono fare, anche se a mio parere questo aspetto della storia poteva essere sviluppato ulteriormente. Ho apprezzato il fatto che l'essere indiana di Simmi non è solo una caratteristica nominata tanto per dire, ma un tratto costante della sua personalità e della sua vita: cibi, parole, vestiti. Un po' di diversità culturale mi piace!
Alex in questa storia compare molto meno e un po' mi è dispiaciuto, perché era un personaggio che mi aveva colpito e avrei voluto continuare a seguire la storia dal suo punto di vista. Devo dire che non è molto fortunato in questo libro e mi dispiace per lui! Dax non mi ha convinto pienamente; sono sicura che c'è qualcosa che ancora ci nasconde.
Per quanto riguarda la storia, mi è comunque piaciuta e ho letto il libro in pochissimo tempo; nonostante non ci sia molta azione, perché ero curiosa di vedere come Simmi avrebbe affrontato le varie situazioni. Nella parte finale i vari poteri dei ragazzi ritornano a prendere piede e quindi si preannuncia un prossimo libro alquanto interessante.
La frase che mi ha colpito:
That's the thing about problems. They're personal. No one's are worse than anybody else's.
Il libro è attualmente inedito in Italia.
ENGLISH
Open Heart is the second book in the Farsighted series (you can find my review for Farsigheted HERE) and I have to say that it's really different. First of all, there is a change in the narrating voice of the story; if Alex was our guide in the first book, this time we have Simmi, his Indian girlfriend, who takes us into their story. Moreover, I feel like the focus of the story has shifted; if in the first book the attention was on the discovery of Alex's powers, this time the attention is on Simmi's problems first and then on her powers, though the two things are linked together.
The story picks up some time later¸ Simmi and Alex are a couple, Shapri is friend with both of them, Dax is absolutely unwanted by Alex, who does everything he can to make him stay away Simmi is a pretty interesting character (though I still prefer Shapri) because I believe that it's kind of easy to relate to her, to her insecurities and fears, to her chaos of her emotions; it's something every teenager has experienced. It is understandable that she's afraid of what her powers can do, and I wish this point was further explored. I loved the fact that Simmi is Indian and it's not just something that we know, it's something that we are shown: small sentences, food, clothes… we get the feeling! I love some cultural diversity!
We don't get to see much of Alex this time and I was slightly disappointed, mainly because I really liked him and I would have loved to have his POV, too. And he's not that lucky in this book, so I felt sorry for him! There is also something that didn't quite convince me about Dax; he may be a good guy, but…
from Simmi, who doesn't want to keep working on her powers, afraid of the effects that they could have, and is also struggling with her appearance. Simmi would love to lose weight and chooses the worst way to reach her goal.
As for the story, it's pretty enjoyable and I read the book quickly, even though there is not much action, because I was really curious to discover how Simmi would have faced the situations. In the final part, powers play an important role and I cannot wait to see what happens next!
My favourite quote:
That's the thing about problems. They're personal. No one's are worse than anybody else's.
February 28, 2013
Each book in the Farsighted series is written from the point of view of a different character. The first book, Farsighted, was written from the POV of Alex, a blind teenager who develops psychic powers that allow him to "see" flashes of events. He develops a crush on Simmi, another gifted teen who has clairsentience. That means that she can sense and manipulate the emotions of others. This second book in the series is written from Simmi's POV.
In Farsighted, we only see Simmi through Alex's eyes. She is sweet and considerate and perfect. Here in book two, we get a much more complete picture of Simmi. She is sweet and considerate but she is far from perfect. She is the picture of many teenaged girls. She has self-esteem issues, she constantly worries about her weight and appearance. She is confused by her feelings towards Alex and her growing attraction to Dax. She has horrible guilt and crippling self-doubt that keep her from doing the right thing in her relationships and also keeps her from finding her true potential. She manipulates people but justifies it with her good intentions. Her self-esteem and body image issues lead to an eating disorder.
These struggles were both heartbreaking and frustrating for me as the reader. I wanted to cry for her as she describes the emptiness she feels that needs to be filled and so she binges on food. And then her anxiety and self-loathing cause her to purge. The author does a really great job of showing how an eating disorder can start as something seemingly insignificant and then turn into something so devastating. At times I wanted to just shake her and make her wake up and get out of her own head!
Simmi's relationships with Alex and Dax are also very well written. I was reminded of my own teenage years when it felt so validating to have attention and affection from a boy but at the same time worry that you're not good enough. Then someone else comes along that gives you butterflies and you want to be with them but you feel horrible breaking up with and hurting a boy who has only ever cared for you. Ah, teenage romance.
As for the paranormal aspect of the series, the abilities of the characters really take a back seat in this book. They are there, and are integral to the plot but this book really read more like realistic-fiction involving characters who just so happen to be "gifted." We see a bit more of what Dax can do under normal circumstances which was fun. There are some really great scenes between Simmi and Dax where he uses his powers in little ways to make things special. There are a few scenes that involve abilities that other minor characters have as well. I suspect that these little glimpses are setting up for bigger things to come later on in the series.
There were a couple of things that seemed a little bit outlandish. Alex and Dax are "magnets" who draw other gifted people to them. As a result, the population of the small town doubles in a matter of months. There are so many new people that the road needs to be widened and new condos are being built. That didn't seem quite right to me. Wouldn't it take longer for the town to approve new roads and construction, etc.? With zoning laws and town hall meetings and everything else that goes along with town development these things sometimes take years. In the grand scheme of things, this was really a minor flaw that was a little distracting but didn't really detract from the overall story.
My main complaints (if you can call them that) with Farsighted were lack of character development, and dialogue and actions that were not entirely believable. I did not have those same problems here. Although we are still only seeing the cast of characters through Simmi's interpretation of them, I felt they were all a little bit more fully developed in this book and there was no cheesy dialogue. Alex's parents weren't entirely believable to me, but Simmi's parents were.
Overall, I'm not sure if it's because the storyline has developed further, or the author is more comfortable in the writing of this series but I enjoyed this one even more than the first. I was drawn in to Simmi's story right away. Maybe that's because I could really identify with her. I'm an adult now, but her story and struggles really resonated with me. This book really read more like realistic fiction whose main characters just so happen to have special powers. The characters all deal with normal teenage experiences and drama. I loved that. This is a highly recommended read both for fans of Paranormal and Realistic Teen Fiction. I can't wait to read the third book in the series, Pitch.
In Farsighted, we only see Simmi through Alex's eyes. She is sweet and considerate and perfect. Here in book two, we get a much more complete picture of Simmi. She is sweet and considerate but she is far from perfect. She is the picture of many teenaged girls. She has self-esteem issues, she constantly worries about her weight and appearance. She is confused by her feelings towards Alex and her growing attraction to Dax. She has horrible guilt and crippling self-doubt that keep her from doing the right thing in her relationships and also keeps her from finding her true potential. She manipulates people but justifies it with her good intentions. Her self-esteem and body image issues lead to an eating disorder.
These struggles were both heartbreaking and frustrating for me as the reader. I wanted to cry for her as she describes the emptiness she feels that needs to be filled and so she binges on food. And then her anxiety and self-loathing cause her to purge. The author does a really great job of showing how an eating disorder can start as something seemingly insignificant and then turn into something so devastating. At times I wanted to just shake her and make her wake up and get out of her own head!
Simmi's relationships with Alex and Dax are also very well written. I was reminded of my own teenage years when it felt so validating to have attention and affection from a boy but at the same time worry that you're not good enough. Then someone else comes along that gives you butterflies and you want to be with them but you feel horrible breaking up with and hurting a boy who has only ever cared for you. Ah, teenage romance.
As for the paranormal aspect of the series, the abilities of the characters really take a back seat in this book. They are there, and are integral to the plot but this book really read more like realistic-fiction involving characters who just so happen to be "gifted." We see a bit more of what Dax can do under normal circumstances which was fun. There are some really great scenes between Simmi and Dax where he uses his powers in little ways to make things special. There are a few scenes that involve abilities that other minor characters have as well. I suspect that these little glimpses are setting up for bigger things to come later on in the series.
There were a couple of things that seemed a little bit outlandish. Alex and Dax are "magnets" who draw other gifted people to them. As a result, the population of the small town doubles in a matter of months. There are so many new people that the road needs to be widened and new condos are being built. That didn't seem quite right to me. Wouldn't it take longer for the town to approve new roads and construction, etc.? With zoning laws and town hall meetings and everything else that goes along with town development these things sometimes take years. In the grand scheme of things, this was really a minor flaw that was a little distracting but didn't really detract from the overall story.
My main complaints (if you can call them that) with Farsighted were lack of character development, and dialogue and actions that were not entirely believable. I did not have those same problems here. Although we are still only seeing the cast of characters through Simmi's interpretation of them, I felt they were all a little bit more fully developed in this book and there was no cheesy dialogue. Alex's parents weren't entirely believable to me, but Simmi's parents were.
Overall, I'm not sure if it's because the storyline has developed further, or the author is more comfortable in the writing of this series but I enjoyed this one even more than the first. I was drawn in to Simmi's story right away. Maybe that's because I could really identify with her. I'm an adult now, but her story and struggles really resonated with me. This book really read more like realistic fiction whose main characters just so happen to have special powers. The characters all deal with normal teenage experiences and drama. I loved that. This is a highly recommended read both for fans of Paranormal and Realistic Teen Fiction. I can't wait to read the third book in the series, Pitch.
May 29, 2012
The Farsighted Series is a unique series about ... well a lot of things, by my dear friend Emlyn Chand. When I read the first book (see my previous posts here), I read it from cover to cover (so to speak since it was on the Kindle app of my iPhone) in one sitting - something that I can easily do but haven't done for a long time (with the exception of the books from the Harry Potter Series. When I got an email from Emlyn with an early copy of Open Heart (book #2), I was flattered and excited all at once.
What is unique about this series is that each book in it is from a different point of view - the first was from Alex, the second is from the point of his girlfriend Simmi. That said, I found the 2nd book twice as intriguing as the first.
Alex
Alex is blind, no other way to put it but bluntly. In the first book we learn that Alex has "psychic visions" - which prove to be disturbing to say the least. With Alex being the main POV character it was hard not to feel for him, not talking like pity him but genuinely feel for him as a person. He was so well crafted in the first book at some points you forgot that you were "seeing" the world of Grandon through the eyes of a blind individual... it was very surreal at points.
In Open Heart, Alex comes across quite different. I don't want to ruin too much for those of you who have yet to read the book (if you haven't go buy it NOW, seriously why are you waiting?). I will say seeing Alex through Simmi's eyes took some of the new character shine off of him - in a good way. Initially when only a few chapters into the book I began to dislike Alex just a little, but with a few well crafted twists in turns in the plot Emlyn evened things out for me. Either way, Alex is still coming across as (by far) the most honest and heartfelt character in the series.
Simmi
Simmi is what made Open Heart a love/hate situation. She struggles with a personal issue throughout the book that is just as devastating as Alex's blindness.. I even found myself tearing up because I could relate to the situations she put herself and FOUND herself in. The personal struggles, the normal teenage girl struggles ... they all sort of left me trying to figure out how I really felt about her. I was sort of flustered at points with Simmi - she just seems so selfish (extremely so at times) that you can hardly believe it.
Shapri
Shapri, like Simmi and Alex, sort of opens up as a character in Open Heart. I love how she is so kind and caring, even though it comes off as a bit nosey sometimes. Shapri is like that friend we all wish we had- but most never did, someone who cares about the people around her (almost too much so).
Dax
Dax seems so evil in the first book, til the end that is. As I read the parts of Open Heart that showed me more of Dax words just kept popping into my head: genuine, aloof, broken, loving, kind, endearing, sad, depressed, self-hating and more.
Murray and Others
As Open Heart begins we learn pretty early on about the population explosion that is a result of people being drawn to Alex and Dax. Murray is a spunky guy who well, comes across more as a brother or BFF even though he most certainly doesn't want to. The secondary characters roster read like a who's who of my high school days, as I am sure it will for you once you go pick up both books!
Kudos to Emlyn For:
writing characters for YA that don't come across so "white washed" - not that characters like Harry Potter and Hermoine aren't fantastic but, they sort of leave you wondering if the author had a full box of crayons as a child
writing emotionally heart wrenching scenes that I know pulled on her, they pulled on me too
writing well rounded, REALISTIC characters that you love to hate and hate to love
picking the title Open Heart for the 2nd book - just like the title Farsighted (for the first book and the series) it can speak to you on many different levels... I wonder if you can find all the meanings for both titles that I did?
With all the twists and turns in perception and POV between the first book and the second, I have been left wondering something... who is the real Alex? Is it the Alex from the first book or the second? Who is Simmi really - is she the girl from the zoo or the girl with the painful secret she hides from everyone? I could go on and on but I will stop right here with one last question...
Will the real Farsighted Characters Please Stand Up?
What is unique about this series is that each book in it is from a different point of view - the first was from Alex, the second is from the point of his girlfriend Simmi. That said, I found the 2nd book twice as intriguing as the first.
Alex
Alex is blind, no other way to put it but bluntly. In the first book we learn that Alex has "psychic visions" - which prove to be disturbing to say the least. With Alex being the main POV character it was hard not to feel for him, not talking like pity him but genuinely feel for him as a person. He was so well crafted in the first book at some points you forgot that you were "seeing" the world of Grandon through the eyes of a blind individual... it was very surreal at points.
In Open Heart, Alex comes across quite different. I don't want to ruin too much for those of you who have yet to read the book (if you haven't go buy it NOW, seriously why are you waiting?). I will say seeing Alex through Simmi's eyes took some of the new character shine off of him - in a good way. Initially when only a few chapters into the book I began to dislike Alex just a little, but with a few well crafted twists in turns in the plot Emlyn evened things out for me. Either way, Alex is still coming across as (by far) the most honest and heartfelt character in the series.
Simmi
Simmi is what made Open Heart a love/hate situation. She struggles with a personal issue throughout the book that is just as devastating as Alex's blindness.. I even found myself tearing up because I could relate to the situations she put herself and FOUND herself in. The personal struggles, the normal teenage girl struggles ... they all sort of left me trying to figure out how I really felt about her. I was sort of flustered at points with Simmi - she just seems so selfish (extremely so at times) that you can hardly believe it.
Shapri
Shapri, like Simmi and Alex, sort of opens up as a character in Open Heart. I love how she is so kind and caring, even though it comes off as a bit nosey sometimes. Shapri is like that friend we all wish we had- but most never did, someone who cares about the people around her (almost too much so).
Dax
Dax seems so evil in the first book, til the end that is. As I read the parts of Open Heart that showed me more of Dax words just kept popping into my head: genuine, aloof, broken, loving, kind, endearing, sad, depressed, self-hating and more.
Murray and Others
As Open Heart begins we learn pretty early on about the population explosion that is a result of people being drawn to Alex and Dax. Murray is a spunky guy who well, comes across more as a brother or BFF even though he most certainly doesn't want to. The secondary characters roster read like a who's who of my high school days, as I am sure it will for you once you go pick up both books!
Kudos to Emlyn For:
writing characters for YA that don't come across so "white washed" - not that characters like Harry Potter and Hermoine aren't fantastic but, they sort of leave you wondering if the author had a full box of crayons as a child
writing emotionally heart wrenching scenes that I know pulled on her, they pulled on me too
writing well rounded, REALISTIC characters that you love to hate and hate to love
picking the title Open Heart for the 2nd book - just like the title Farsighted (for the first book and the series) it can speak to you on many different levels... I wonder if you can find all the meanings for both titles that I did?
With all the twists and turns in perception and POV between the first book and the second, I have been left wondering something... who is the real Alex? Is it the Alex from the first book or the second? Who is Simmi really - is she the girl from the zoo or the girl with the painful secret she hides from everyone? I could go on and on but I will stop right here with one last question...
Will the real Farsighted Characters Please Stand Up?
March 13, 2013
Review originally posted at Step Into Fiction
If you have NOT read Farsighted please read with caution. There are some spoilers that were unavoidable. Proceed with caution . . .
I was a little iffy about the first book, Farsighted, but let me tell you; this book is so much better. I think my main problem with Farsighted was Alex doesn't seem realistic. As a teenage boy, he just doesn't act like one, in my opinion. However, this book is from Simmi's point of view and it's fantastic. There's many times I want to hit her but by the end, my emotions are all over the place. I'm not sure how I'm supposed to feel and really, I don't even know how I feel about everything that went down.
In book two, Open Heart, we not only learn about Simmi's inner demons, which are pretty serious, but we also get to know Dax a bit more. Alex still hates Dax with all his being but Simmi feels a pull toward him and her interest in his spikes. She knows she's supposed to stay away from him because it's what Alex wants but it's not what she wants. Besides, Alex's visions from last year weren't actually about her so really, what harm could it do befriending Dax? Except, she has to do it behind his back and behind Shapri's back.
One of the scariest things we see Simmi go through in this book isn't the fact that she's afraid of her new blossomed powers but her eating disorder. She starts out this book as a size fourteen and hates herself. She says many times that if Alex could see how 'fat' and 'ugly' she were, he wouldn't love her like he does (which, for the record, I do not believe. He has hands, he knows her body enough and still loves her). As someone who is plus size, I could absolutely, positively relate with a lot of what goes on in her head. A lot, of it actually.
Another thing I love is that this book has a lot of main characters of different nationalities. You don't see that a lot in Young Adult novels, which is a shame. Sure, there are characters of different nationalities in every book but not as main characters. I absolutely love that and I love how we learn more about Simmi's heritage in this book and her life before she moved to Canton.
I never fully loved Alex and Simmi together. I always thought the chemistry between he and Shapri were more intense and real but I do appreciate Alex & Simmi's relationship. Though, without seeing in Alex's head, we know their feelings for each other aren't on the same level. At times, you wish Simmi would wake up and see what's so great right in front of her yet other times you're like, just let go. It's a tug of war back and forth but then you throw Dax in the mix and things really get complicated. Dax. . .I really like him. I don't believe he's evil one bit but I do believe he's dangerous. You're probably wondering what I mean. . .but I won't tell you. Read, find out.
One of my favorite, newest characters was Murray. He's an adorable freshman who head over heels in love with Shapri. His personality is one that would certainly steal woman's hearts once he hits puberty. He stares in West Side Story with Simmi and quickly becomes a new addition to her group of friends.
I was a little worried about reading this after Farsighted because I did struggle a bit to get through that but let me tell you, this is not one you have to struggle with at all. Honestly, I had a hard time putting it down. Maybe it's because I could relate to a lot of Simmi's self hate but I think that's only a part of it. It's just a better story, character perspective and just. . .overall, a more exciting read. I am extremely eager for the next book, Pitch. . .
If you have NOT read Farsighted please read with caution. There are some spoilers that were unavoidable. Proceed with caution . . .
I was a little iffy about the first book, Farsighted, but let me tell you; this book is so much better. I think my main problem with Farsighted was Alex doesn't seem realistic. As a teenage boy, he just doesn't act like one, in my opinion. However, this book is from Simmi's point of view and it's fantastic. There's many times I want to hit her but by the end, my emotions are all over the place. I'm not sure how I'm supposed to feel and really, I don't even know how I feel about everything that went down.
In book two, Open Heart, we not only learn about Simmi's inner demons, which are pretty serious, but we also get to know Dax a bit more. Alex still hates Dax with all his being but Simmi feels a pull toward him and her interest in his spikes. She knows she's supposed to stay away from him because it's what Alex wants but it's not what she wants. Besides, Alex's visions from last year weren't actually about her so really, what harm could it do befriending Dax? Except, she has to do it behind his back and behind Shapri's back.
One of the scariest things we see Simmi go through in this book isn't the fact that she's afraid of her new blossomed powers but her eating disorder. She starts out this book as a size fourteen and hates herself. She says many times that if Alex could see how 'fat' and 'ugly' she were, he wouldn't love her like he does (which, for the record, I do not believe. He has hands, he knows her body enough and still loves her). As someone who is plus size, I could absolutely, positively relate with a lot of what goes on in her head. A lot, of it actually.
Another thing I love is that this book has a lot of main characters of different nationalities. You don't see that a lot in Young Adult novels, which is a shame. Sure, there are characters of different nationalities in every book but not as main characters. I absolutely love that and I love how we learn more about Simmi's heritage in this book and her life before she moved to Canton.
I never fully loved Alex and Simmi together. I always thought the chemistry between he and Shapri were more intense and real but I do appreciate Alex & Simmi's relationship. Though, without seeing in Alex's head, we know their feelings for each other aren't on the same level. At times, you wish Simmi would wake up and see what's so great right in front of her yet other times you're like, just let go. It's a tug of war back and forth but then you throw Dax in the mix and things really get complicated. Dax. . .I really like him. I don't believe he's evil one bit but I do believe he's dangerous. You're probably wondering what I mean. . .but I won't tell you. Read, find out.
One of my favorite, newest characters was Murray. He's an adorable freshman who head over heels in love with Shapri. His personality is one that would certainly steal woman's hearts once he hits puberty. He stares in West Side Story with Simmi and quickly becomes a new addition to her group of friends.
I was a little worried about reading this after Farsighted because I did struggle a bit to get through that but let me tell you, this is not one you have to struggle with at all. Honestly, I had a hard time putting it down. Maybe it's because I could relate to a lot of Simmi's self hate but I think that's only a part of it. It's just a better story, character perspective and just. . .overall, a more exciting read. I am extremely eager for the next book, Pitch. . .
March 3, 2013
Originally posted at The Solitary Bookworm
Rating: ★★★ 1/2
Open Heart, the second installment in the series by Chand, focuses more on Simmi's story and POV. The story picks up from where Farsighted left off. Here we encounter what happens after Dax settles down, the blossoming of Alex's and Simmi's relationship, introduction of new players and other interesting developments.
I enjoyed reading Farsighted and comparing Open Heart to the first book, I kinda liked Farsighted better. The vibe of that story is more lightweight compared to this one. We're back to hating Dax again but now its not only Alex who's pissed at him but also Shapri. I get the loyalty but seriously, I don't get where the hatred is coming from. This book just had a lot of negativity from Alex that it made my reading experience somewhat sad, slower than I expected and torn. Sad because I like Alex, however he's too young to be investing too much anger when he should be focusing on his relationship with Simmi instead. The only thing I can think about the whole time I was reading the story is how stupid their misplaced anger is. I just don't get it. Alex is uber mad, jealous, immature and he exaggerates everything associated to Dax. C'mon, get over it. Then Shapri is also overbearing, out of place and irritating with her comments and accusations. Enough about that rant now - let me tell you what I enjoyed and love about Open Heart.
As I said, Simmi is our main focus and from my review of Farsighted I definitely love her character. She's strong and caring and just shows so much spunk and energy its contagious. Her gift is strong and she has a very good heart. This story tells us a different side of Simmi. Her vulnerable, insecure and sad side. I didn't pity her through the story but I felt for her sadness. It's painful to read a strong willed person be broken down like that and all the while I was hoping that she'll turn things around which she did eventually. In addition to that, I can see that Simmi and Alex aren't clicking. Which is another thing that's making me sad since they do have a bond but it was very obvious there wasn't anything for Simmi there. I can feel more electricity and spark with Simmi and Dax. Whenever I read their moments together, I just smile as to reading her time with Alex I cringe. I believe Dax is good for her. Dax brings out the blubby and fun Simmi in Farsighted .
This review is becoming more character focus. Okay, unto other things then. Hehe. Open Heart will introduce other characters. Some are passing by and some shows signs of being regulars. Not really certain yet but it seems like it. The new characters are actually effective when it comes to embodying nastiness. Oh you will hate Ronnie but definitely get intrigued with her and her dad. Villains we all love to hate. Pacing was a little affected with how Alex is in this book but halfway through, it picks up. I would love to have read more about the new baddies in the series but I think it'll be explored more on the next stories. Not really an issue for me. At least, we can read more about each characters with these individual focuses. Ending was a bit rough and abrupt but bearable. Overall, rocky reading experience but happy with character and story development. Intrigued with how the author will stir up more trouble for the gang and what will happen in the next books.
Rating: ★★★ 1/2
Open Heart, the second installment in the series by Chand, focuses more on Simmi's story and POV. The story picks up from where Farsighted left off. Here we encounter what happens after Dax settles down, the blossoming of Alex's and Simmi's relationship, introduction of new players and other interesting developments.
I enjoyed reading Farsighted and comparing Open Heart to the first book, I kinda liked Farsighted better. The vibe of that story is more lightweight compared to this one. We're back to hating Dax again but now its not only Alex who's pissed at him but also Shapri. I get the loyalty but seriously, I don't get where the hatred is coming from. This book just had a lot of negativity from Alex that it made my reading experience somewhat sad, slower than I expected and torn. Sad because I like Alex, however he's too young to be investing too much anger when he should be focusing on his relationship with Simmi instead. The only thing I can think about the whole time I was reading the story is how stupid their misplaced anger is. I just don't get it. Alex is uber mad, jealous, immature and he exaggerates everything associated to Dax. C'mon, get over it. Then Shapri is also overbearing, out of place and irritating with her comments and accusations. Enough about that rant now - let me tell you what I enjoyed and love about Open Heart.
As I said, Simmi is our main focus and from my review of Farsighted I definitely love her character. She's strong and caring and just shows so much spunk and energy its contagious. Her gift is strong and she has a very good heart. This story tells us a different side of Simmi. Her vulnerable, insecure and sad side. I didn't pity her through the story but I felt for her sadness. It's painful to read a strong willed person be broken down like that and all the while I was hoping that she'll turn things around which she did eventually. In addition to that, I can see that Simmi and Alex aren't clicking. Which is another thing that's making me sad since they do have a bond but it was very obvious there wasn't anything for Simmi there. I can feel more electricity and spark with Simmi and Dax. Whenever I read their moments together, I just smile as to reading her time with Alex I cringe. I believe Dax is good for her. Dax brings out the blubby and fun Simmi in Farsighted .
This review is becoming more character focus. Okay, unto other things then. Hehe. Open Heart will introduce other characters. Some are passing by and some shows signs of being regulars. Not really certain yet but it seems like it. The new characters are actually effective when it comes to embodying nastiness. Oh you will hate Ronnie but definitely get intrigued with her and her dad. Villains we all love to hate. Pacing was a little affected with how Alex is in this book but halfway through, it picks up. I would love to have read more about the new baddies in the series but I think it'll be explored more on the next stories. Not really an issue for me. At least, we can read more about each characters with these individual focuses. Ending was a bit rough and abrupt but bearable. Overall, rocky reading experience but happy with character and story development. Intrigued with how the author will stir up more trouble for the gang and what will happen in the next books.
March 15, 2013
My Review for Open Heart originally posted @ Bittersweet Enchantment
Open Heart has been on my TBR list for sometime now so when I was asked to read it I jumped at the opportunity. A while back I read and reviewed Farsighted which is the first book in this series and really enjoyed it. The premise for these books are unique and quite intriguing. With Open Heart I had so many mixed feelings as I was reading that I found myself taking breaks from the book here and there so I could completely understand the story.
If you have not read Farsighted then please be aware there will be a few spoilers in this review.
Book one was soully focused on Alex. Alex is blind but has the rare ability to see the future through visions. Simmi on the other hand can feel and sense emotions of others as well as change a persons emotions at will. Where Farsighted was told from Alex's POV , Open Heart is being told from Simmi's. The book basically starts where Farsighted left off. Alex and Simmi are now dating and both learning how to use and grow their physic gifts. The real challenge Simmi has is dealing with her low to non existed self worth. Even thought she has a great boyfriend and a supporting best friend, Simmi has never truly felt like she is worth much. Simmi sees herself as this fat...no a HUGE blob when really she could maybe loose a few extra pounds. Or course like many teenage girls she goes about loosing the weight the wrong way and a very unsafe way. At first she attempts to stop eating all together only to break down and bing alone in her room. Things are about to get a whole lot worse for her...
She finds herself feeling lost and confused because on one hand she is dating Alex who has been nothing but kind and loving to Simmi but on the other hand she is strangely drawn to Dax who just so happens to be Alex's enemy. If this wasn't enough, Simmi does the unthinkable and takes her eating problem to a whole new level.....a way of coping with her insecurities. NOT. GOOD!!
Simmi's story really dives deep into the mind of a teenage girl with not only her special gift but a really scary and real secret. The mix of paranormal and realistic fiction blew my mind. Although there were some parts in the book I wanted to slap Simmi and ask her why she keep doing these stupid things to herself and others. At the same time I also felt sorry for her, I mean truly downright sorry. She was just so blind not see what she was doing to herself which left me feeling very frustrated with her character. There were some part that I simply had to skip because of how graphic they were but I think this aspect alone is what made me not give a better rating to the book. The readers of Open Heart should be warned of the realism in the story, not to say it was necessarily a bad thing but for me it was hard to read. The one thing that really did interested me about Simmi's story was her relationship with Alex and Dax. I loved how I was able to get to know them both a lot more. The book to me was more about the struggles Simmi was presented with than the obvious paranormal aspects. Which for me was good and bad. Good because it keep the story well entertaining but bad because the "realistic" part seemed to out weight this.
Would I recommend this book to my readers and friends?
YES!
Would I read the next one?
Sure would.
The story itself is really good, REALLY GOOD! I simply think I was somewhat turned off by how Simmi continued to hurt herself and those around her. In the next books I hope to see a lot more of her character. Simmi stills has a long way to go to not only grow and approve in her ability's but to accept and love herself.
Author Emlyn Chand is a born storyteller. She writes from the heart and put so much hardcore emotions in her books. Even through the ups and down in the story I can honestly say this is series is one not to miss!
Open Heart has been on my TBR list for sometime now so when I was asked to read it I jumped at the opportunity. A while back I read and reviewed Farsighted which is the first book in this series and really enjoyed it. The premise for these books are unique and quite intriguing. With Open Heart I had so many mixed feelings as I was reading that I found myself taking breaks from the book here and there so I could completely understand the story.
If you have not read Farsighted then please be aware there will be a few spoilers in this review.
Book one was soully focused on Alex. Alex is blind but has the rare ability to see the future through visions. Simmi on the other hand can feel and sense emotions of others as well as change a persons emotions at will. Where Farsighted was told from Alex's POV , Open Heart is being told from Simmi's. The book basically starts where Farsighted left off. Alex and Simmi are now dating and both learning how to use and grow their physic gifts. The real challenge Simmi has is dealing with her low to non existed self worth. Even thought she has a great boyfriend and a supporting best friend, Simmi has never truly felt like she is worth much. Simmi sees herself as this fat...no a HUGE blob when really she could maybe loose a few extra pounds. Or course like many teenage girls she goes about loosing the weight the wrong way and a very unsafe way. At first she attempts to stop eating all together only to break down and bing alone in her room. Things are about to get a whole lot worse for her...
She finds herself feeling lost and confused because on one hand she is dating Alex who has been nothing but kind and loving to Simmi but on the other hand she is strangely drawn to Dax who just so happens to be Alex's enemy. If this wasn't enough, Simmi does the unthinkable and takes her eating problem to a whole new level.....a way of coping with her insecurities. NOT. GOOD!!
Simmi's story really dives deep into the mind of a teenage girl with not only her special gift but a really scary and real secret. The mix of paranormal and realistic fiction blew my mind. Although there were some parts in the book I wanted to slap Simmi and ask her why she keep doing these stupid things to herself and others. At the same time I also felt sorry for her, I mean truly downright sorry. She was just so blind not see what she was doing to herself which left me feeling very frustrated with her character. There were some part that I simply had to skip because of how graphic they were but I think this aspect alone is what made me not give a better rating to the book. The readers of Open Heart should be warned of the realism in the story, not to say it was necessarily a bad thing but for me it was hard to read. The one thing that really did interested me about Simmi's story was her relationship with Alex and Dax. I loved how I was able to get to know them both a lot more. The book to me was more about the struggles Simmi was presented with than the obvious paranormal aspects. Which for me was good and bad. Good because it keep the story well entertaining but bad because the "realistic" part seemed to out weight this.
Would I recommend this book to my readers and friends?
YES!
Would I read the next one?
Sure would.
The story itself is really good, REALLY GOOD! I simply think I was somewhat turned off by how Simmi continued to hurt herself and those around her. In the next books I hope to see a lot more of her character. Simmi stills has a long way to go to not only grow and approve in her ability's but to accept and love herself.
Author Emlyn Chand is a born storyteller. She writes from the heart and put so much hardcore emotions in her books. Even through the ups and down in the story I can honestly say this is series is one not to miss!
May 22, 2012
Read full review here
I was never a Team Simmi girl. She was more of a prop character in Farsighted, and I felt she was fake-ish and shallow. I said fake-ish because I wasn't entirely sure, but Open Heart came along and confirmed everything.
--------IGNORE THIS IF YOU DON'T WANT TO READ MY RANT------------
The deal is, Simmi has thins whole self-loathing problem where she has all these negative thoughts about herself like "omg i'm too fat" and "omg i'm too ugly". It's not a problem though, since that's perfectly normal. Heck, even I feel like i'm an ugly sea cow most of the time. My problem with Simmi is how she deals with her problem. She has all these eating disorders, she lies to the people who care about her, she manipulates them for all the wrong reasons, she takes comfort in the insecurities of other people, and she wants other people stop judging her but she keeps on judging other people herself and sizes them up and makes mental venn diagrams in order to figure out who's better or who's more handsome LIKE IT'S ALL JUST A HUGE MISS UNIVERSE CONTEST. And honestly, her "he's dangerous and I shouldn't but something's luring me in" monologues sound exactly like a typical Bella pining for her smexy but dangerous Edward.
-----------------------------END OF MY RANT----------------------------
It was extremely hard for me to rate this book. Putting my 'hatred' for Simmi at bay in order to write a proper review is just too mentally frustrating. I mean, Simmi is definitely not a character you'd easily love. But because Emlyn is such a sweetheart, here is a bullet list (Emlyn likes bullet lists!) of what I liked about this book:
•Alex Kosmitoras. Need I say more? Err I guess i really should explain this further but I can't without spoiling the story, so you need to read the book. *wink wink, nudge nudge* ;D
•Basically every character in the book except for Simmi. I loved them all. Even the "antagonists" like the popular kids and Dax had redeeming features, and they even had their own little backstory that Emlyn managed to fit in without ruining the whole plot.
•The writing! I mean, it's not exactly grand poetry or anything like that. It's more of an easy, flowy type and it's really easy to read but it worked. I actually felt like I was reading Simmi's journal and everything was so vivid. And I have to say, Emlyn's writing definitely improves since Farsighted.
•It's perfectly paced. It was a really smooth process without any boring bumps in the road, and the build towards the climax was also steady-sailing.
•I got a taste of Indian culture yet again! The story was filled with ideas about chakras and Sikhism, and I'm personally really interested in other religions and all that jazz, so it really made my reading experience exciting! And, learning something new is always a good thing.
•It's not white-washed. Open Heart had all these characters from different races, cultures, and backgrounds. It's really hard to find that in YA novels these days.
•Okay, this definitely deserves the last-but-not-the-least pimp spot. I really really liked how Emlyn tackled Simmi's eating disorders and self-loathing. She didn't sugarcoat it at all. I know that it is a common problem, and that it is a problem that is commonly denied. Most girls don't even realize they have eating disorders, or they don't even consider it as a disorder or a problem. That's what made Simmi real, I think. She may not be a likeable character per se, but she is very very real. There's a little bit of Simmi in all of us, I think.
THE NUB AND GIST:
Mentally and emotionally exhausting, but definitely not in a bad way.
I was never a Team Simmi girl. She was more of a prop character in Farsighted, and I felt she was fake-ish and shallow. I said fake-ish because I wasn't entirely sure, but Open Heart came along and confirmed everything.
--------IGNORE THIS IF YOU DON'T WANT TO READ MY RANT------------
The deal is, Simmi has thins whole self-loathing problem where she has all these negative thoughts about herself like "omg i'm too fat" and "omg i'm too ugly". It's not a problem though, since that's perfectly normal. Heck, even I feel like i'm an ugly sea cow most of the time. My problem with Simmi is how she deals with her problem. She has all these eating disorders, she lies to the people who care about her, she manipulates them for all the wrong reasons, she takes comfort in the insecurities of other people, and she wants other people stop judging her but she keeps on judging other people herself and sizes them up and makes mental venn diagrams in order to figure out who's better or who's more handsome LIKE IT'S ALL JUST A HUGE MISS UNIVERSE CONTEST. And honestly, her "he's dangerous and I shouldn't but something's luring me in" monologues sound exactly like a typical Bella pining for her smexy but dangerous Edward.
-----------------------------END OF MY RANT----------------------------
It was extremely hard for me to rate this book. Putting my 'hatred' for Simmi at bay in order to write a proper review is just too mentally frustrating. I mean, Simmi is definitely not a character you'd easily love. But because Emlyn is such a sweetheart, here is a bullet list (Emlyn likes bullet lists!) of what I liked about this book:
•Alex Kosmitoras. Need I say more? Err I guess i really should explain this further but I can't without spoiling the story, so you need to read the book. *wink wink, nudge nudge* ;D
•Basically every character in the book except for Simmi. I loved them all. Even the "antagonists" like the popular kids and Dax had redeeming features, and they even had their own little backstory that Emlyn managed to fit in without ruining the whole plot.
•The writing! I mean, it's not exactly grand poetry or anything like that. It's more of an easy, flowy type and it's really easy to read but it worked. I actually felt like I was reading Simmi's journal and everything was so vivid. And I have to say, Emlyn's writing definitely improves since Farsighted.
•It's perfectly paced. It was a really smooth process without any boring bumps in the road, and the build towards the climax was also steady-sailing.
•I got a taste of Indian culture yet again! The story was filled with ideas about chakras and Sikhism, and I'm personally really interested in other religions and all that jazz, so it really made my reading experience exciting! And, learning something new is always a good thing.
•It's not white-washed. Open Heart had all these characters from different races, cultures, and backgrounds. It's really hard to find that in YA novels these days.
•Okay, this definitely deserves the last-but-not-the-least pimp spot. I really really liked how Emlyn tackled Simmi's eating disorders and self-loathing. She didn't sugarcoat it at all. I know that it is a common problem, and that it is a problem that is commonly denied. Most girls don't even realize they have eating disorders, or they don't even consider it as a disorder or a problem. That's what made Simmi real, I think. She may not be a likeable character per se, but she is very very real. There's a little bit of Simmi in all of us, I think.
THE NUB AND GIST:
Mentally and emotionally exhausting, but definitely not in a bad way.
May 15, 2012
The second novel in the Farsighted series has quite a bit to live up to. After reading a coming-of-age tale from the point-of-view of a blind psychic, Emlyn Chand’s Open Heart’s point-of-view character, Simran “Simmi” Kaur Shergill, had to maintain the steady flow of the Farsighted plot and action. This is not always easy to accomplish when the point-of-view is from a young woman struggling to love her image and herself. Because of her clairsentience, Simmi is able to make others feel better, but cannot use her powers to ease her personal demons.
The reader learns early in the novel that Simmi constantly compares herself to other women and what society deems beautiful. She comments about being a size fourteen in U.S. manufacturing standards, which is huge, because as she says, “everybody knows America is the fattest country in the world.” Things take a turn for the worse when she meets Veronica “Ronnie” Franklin, a beautiful blonde high school girl, who comments on Simmi’s weight and uses any and every excuse to exploit the weakness. Ronnie is cruel for no apparent reason, which is true in many cases today. Bullying, racism, and social cliques still occur in schools today, and Chand seizes the opportunity to reveal that even the most beautiful of people can have ugly insides.
Open Heart takes a darker turn when Simmi discovers bulimia as a method of controlling her weight. Right before auditions for the school’s presentation of West Side Story, she confronts her fears in the girl’s restroom. From there, Simmi spirals into a character the reader sympathizes with and, at some points, hates. The exploration of bulimia transforms the YA Paranormal genre from being about schoolwork, boys, and mastering powers, to focusing on the reality many young women in America face. As American media emphasizes thinness as a model for beauty, the standard of self confidence among teenage girls and young women drops significantly. Chand breaks the mold by delving into the personal, and sometimes heartbreaking, obstacles the average teenage girl faces.
Other than bulimia, Simmi fights with her feelings of affection toward Alex. He saved her life the previous year, and she has become convinced that she is indebted to him. In order to fulfill her debt, Simmi tries her best to love Alex and maintain her relationship with him. At the same token, Alex becomes increasingly attached to her, which drives her away. The realization that she does not actually love Alex as a boyfriend reflects the unpleasant thoughts of a high school girl trying to find her place in the world, and in some cases, even results in Simmi going so far as to admit that she stole Alex away from her best friend the year before because she was jealous. Chand does a brilliant job of giving Simmi multiple layers. Where Alex was blunt and honest most of the time, Simmi is envious, self-focused, and pitiful. This mixture of characteristics is what makes her such a powerful, round person.
Overall, Open Heart’s pacing, themes, and characters expand the world of Farsighted and the sequel exceeds expectations. While Simmi is not the sweet, loving young woman readers saw in Farsighted, she does have a caring side. Like everyone, though, she has a private, darker side, which she tries desperately to eliminate or hide. One minute the reader hates her, and the next, Simmi is a sympathetic, real person who the reader cannot imagine being any other way.
The reader learns early in the novel that Simmi constantly compares herself to other women and what society deems beautiful. She comments about being a size fourteen in U.S. manufacturing standards, which is huge, because as she says, “everybody knows America is the fattest country in the world.” Things take a turn for the worse when she meets Veronica “Ronnie” Franklin, a beautiful blonde high school girl, who comments on Simmi’s weight and uses any and every excuse to exploit the weakness. Ronnie is cruel for no apparent reason, which is true in many cases today. Bullying, racism, and social cliques still occur in schools today, and Chand seizes the opportunity to reveal that even the most beautiful of people can have ugly insides.
Open Heart takes a darker turn when Simmi discovers bulimia as a method of controlling her weight. Right before auditions for the school’s presentation of West Side Story, she confronts her fears in the girl’s restroom. From there, Simmi spirals into a character the reader sympathizes with and, at some points, hates. The exploration of bulimia transforms the YA Paranormal genre from being about schoolwork, boys, and mastering powers, to focusing on the reality many young women in America face. As American media emphasizes thinness as a model for beauty, the standard of self confidence among teenage girls and young women drops significantly. Chand breaks the mold by delving into the personal, and sometimes heartbreaking, obstacles the average teenage girl faces.
Other than bulimia, Simmi fights with her feelings of affection toward Alex. He saved her life the previous year, and she has become convinced that she is indebted to him. In order to fulfill her debt, Simmi tries her best to love Alex and maintain her relationship with him. At the same token, Alex becomes increasingly attached to her, which drives her away. The realization that she does not actually love Alex as a boyfriend reflects the unpleasant thoughts of a high school girl trying to find her place in the world, and in some cases, even results in Simmi going so far as to admit that she stole Alex away from her best friend the year before because she was jealous. Chand does a brilliant job of giving Simmi multiple layers. Where Alex was blunt and honest most of the time, Simmi is envious, self-focused, and pitiful. This mixture of characteristics is what makes her such a powerful, round person.
Overall, Open Heart’s pacing, themes, and characters expand the world of Farsighted and the sequel exceeds expectations. While Simmi is not the sweet, loving young woman readers saw in Farsighted, she does have a caring side. Like everyone, though, she has a private, darker side, which she tries desperately to eliminate or hide. One minute the reader hates her, and the next, Simmi is a sympathetic, real person who the reader cannot imagine being any other way.
February 25, 2013
Real rating 4.5 stars
For more reviews on the hottest as well as the most underhyped books in YA lit check out my review site, Zach's YA Reviews (zachsyareviews.com)
Protagonist: Simmi's life has been turned upside down ever since her powers spiked last summer trying to protect her friends and all those at the Central Park zoo. Now she can barely control her feelings, both romantic and those she aims toward herself. She sees herself as an unsavory size and at the beginning of the book she is starving herself, but it's not long before she discovers she can binge and purge and soon takes to ridding herself of the meals she eats. I wasn't as turned off by her narration as I was about Alex's, maybe because on some small level I can relate to not feeling comfortable in my own skin, and I know that bulimia is a real disorder which makes this book all the more relatable. Her narration wasn't as much annoying as it was sad, it was hard to read about her self-loathing and some of the choices she makes were both shocking and heart-breaking.
Romance: This installment introduces a love triangle for Alex and Simmi, and while I'm all for a good love triangle when I first read about there being on I was just starting to read Farsighted and thus was still on Alex's side. After finishing Farsighted though, I held no love for Alex and welcomed the change of pace and roadbump for the former protagonist. However after reading this book I wouldn't wish what happened on my worst enemy. The choices Simmi makes about her relationship with both Alex and Dax are poorly chosen, yet again after closer observation I realize that if I were in her exact predicament I may have made those choices as well.
World-Building: Since the paranormal nexus that is Aex and Dax has been brewing in Grandon the poulation has nearly doubled leaving a whole slew of psychic new classmates for the gang, though not are as savory as one might think. With the new arrivals comes a new villian, and a possible "Big Bad" for the series. In addition to the new residents, the current ones have begun training their powers again in hopes of developing their abilities more. Also, seeing from Simmi's perspective gives us more information on her home life as well as some family secrets that she never knew until this book.
Predictability: Ironically, without the glimpses into the future this book is slightly more predictable than the previous installment. I think that with the visions Alex had, they could be taken so many ways the the twists snuck up on me, but now it's easier to see twists coming as we don't have a vision that could (possibly) say otherwise. Now, I was still caught off guard about a few things here and there, mainly character's actions and motivations but still things that made this book all the more enjoyable.
Ending: The lack of closure made this ending, there's no real final confrontation, at least not in the traditional sense and though the gang figures out something fairly shocking at the end, I felt as though there could have been another chapter or two to close things up, while still leaving room for the next installment, just not... so much room.
Overall, I'm giving this 4.5 out of 5 stars, this book was great even better than the first even though I did want to scream at Simmi every now and then, well actually most of the time I wanted to give her a lecture
For more reviews on the hottest as well as the most underhyped books in YA lit check out my review site, Zach's YA Reviews (zachsyareviews.com)
Protagonist: Simmi's life has been turned upside down ever since her powers spiked last summer trying to protect her friends and all those at the Central Park zoo. Now she can barely control her feelings, both romantic and those she aims toward herself. She sees herself as an unsavory size and at the beginning of the book she is starving herself, but it's not long before she discovers she can binge and purge and soon takes to ridding herself of the meals she eats. I wasn't as turned off by her narration as I was about Alex's, maybe because on some small level I can relate to not feeling comfortable in my own skin, and I know that bulimia is a real disorder which makes this book all the more relatable. Her narration wasn't as much annoying as it was sad, it was hard to read about her self-loathing and some of the choices she makes were both shocking and heart-breaking.
Romance: This installment introduces a love triangle for Alex and Simmi, and while I'm all for a good love triangle when I first read about there being on I was just starting to read Farsighted and thus was still on Alex's side. After finishing Farsighted though, I held no love for Alex and welcomed the change of pace and roadbump for the former protagonist. However after reading this book I wouldn't wish what happened on my worst enemy. The choices Simmi makes about her relationship with both Alex and Dax are poorly chosen, yet again after closer observation I realize that if I were in her exact predicament I may have made those choices as well.
World-Building: Since the paranormal nexus that is Aex and Dax has been brewing in Grandon the poulation has nearly doubled leaving a whole slew of psychic new classmates for the gang, though not are as savory as one might think. With the new arrivals comes a new villian, and a possible "Big Bad" for the series. In addition to the new residents, the current ones have begun training their powers again in hopes of developing their abilities more. Also, seeing from Simmi's perspective gives us more information on her home life as well as some family secrets that she never knew until this book.
Predictability: Ironically, without the glimpses into the future this book is slightly more predictable than the previous installment. I think that with the visions Alex had, they could be taken so many ways the the twists snuck up on me, but now it's easier to see twists coming as we don't have a vision that could (possibly) say otherwise. Now, I was still caught off guard about a few things here and there, mainly character's actions and motivations but still things that made this book all the more enjoyable.
Ending: The lack of closure made this ending, there's no real final confrontation, at least not in the traditional sense and though the gang figures out something fairly shocking at the end, I felt as though there could have been another chapter or two to close things up, while still leaving room for the next installment, just not... so much room.
Overall, I'm giving this 4.5 out of 5 stars, this book was great even better than the first even though I did want to scream at Simmi every now and then, well actually most of the time I wanted to give her a lecture
March 24, 2013
Book 2 of the Farsighted series by Emlyn chand, Open Heart, was a perfect follow up to book 1. It was wonderful to be reunited with this cast of characters, and will admit that I really enjoyed this one more than the first. Although it does contain a subject matter that is all too real, author Emlyn Chand does a fantastic job in incorporating the difficulties in eating disorders in Open Heart.
Open Heart basically continues on from near where book one, Farsighted, left off. Simmi and Alex are now a couple and are delving ever closer to love territory. Alex remains this sweet, though very clingy, boyfriend to Simmi, and for some reason, Simmi doesn’t seem to reciprocate these feelings.
Having to deal with her disgust with her body, her lack of self-esteem has her careening down a dark and dangerous road, and it seems that per gorging and purging is the only thing that is making her feel somewhat happy. But with Alex’s incessant hate for Dax, who now lives with him, Alex’s animosity rolls off him in waves. And Simmi being a Clairsentience, hiding feelings from her is near impossible.
But when Dax starts to show some interest in Simmi, and they start to delve further into their feelings, Simmi not only has to deal with the strain of her relationship with Alex, but it seems that it also affects her relationship with her bestfriend, Shapri.
As with the Farsighted, I completely devoured this second installment in the Farsighted series. Author, Emlyn Chand, once again shows just how fantastic an author she is, and how well she can capture a reader’s attention.
It was so difficult to have to have to bear witness to poor Simmi and her insecurities. I was truly sad for her to think that the only way she can be happy is to have a size 7 figure and she was constantly doubting the affections of others. And when she started going down the dark road of an eating disorder, I was hoping against hope that her family and friends would open their eyes and see just how destructive Simmi’s behavior was becoming.
I found the times between Alex and Simmi to be very sweet, though somewhat stifling. I don’t think I would have survived as long as Simmi had if I had an Alex who was constantly grabby and needing to show PDAs all the time. And I think I would have flipped my lid if he insisted on joining the drama play because of his hatred for Dax. I kept thinking to myself, “Buddy, if you trust your girl, lay off! You’re suffocating her. Let her enjoy her drama rehearsal!” But then Alex goes and does something so sweet like stick up for Simmi’s honor.
But then we have Dax. The thorn in everyone’s side. I understand the fiasco that happened in book one, and I can see where people can be hesitant when it came to him, but my heart did go out to the guy. I can only imagine how lonely he could be having been ousted by his own parents, and forced to live under the same roof as Alex who can’t stand him. But when it came to Simmi, this romantic, sweet side of him came out and in all honesty, I would have fallen for him too.
I recommend Open Heart to fans of book one in this series, Farsighted and to fans of reads involving supernatural powers. I’m curious to see what happens in the next books in this series! Emlyn Chand has created a cast of characters that finds their way to your heart and mind.
Open Heart basically continues on from near where book one, Farsighted, left off. Simmi and Alex are now a couple and are delving ever closer to love territory. Alex remains this sweet, though very clingy, boyfriend to Simmi, and for some reason, Simmi doesn’t seem to reciprocate these feelings.
Having to deal with her disgust with her body, her lack of self-esteem has her careening down a dark and dangerous road, and it seems that per gorging and purging is the only thing that is making her feel somewhat happy. But with Alex’s incessant hate for Dax, who now lives with him, Alex’s animosity rolls off him in waves. And Simmi being a Clairsentience, hiding feelings from her is near impossible.
But when Dax starts to show some interest in Simmi, and they start to delve further into their feelings, Simmi not only has to deal with the strain of her relationship with Alex, but it seems that it also affects her relationship with her bestfriend, Shapri.
As with the Farsighted, I completely devoured this second installment in the Farsighted series. Author, Emlyn Chand, once again shows just how fantastic an author she is, and how well she can capture a reader’s attention.
It was so difficult to have to have to bear witness to poor Simmi and her insecurities. I was truly sad for her to think that the only way she can be happy is to have a size 7 figure and she was constantly doubting the affections of others. And when she started going down the dark road of an eating disorder, I was hoping against hope that her family and friends would open their eyes and see just how destructive Simmi’s behavior was becoming.
I found the times between Alex and Simmi to be very sweet, though somewhat stifling. I don’t think I would have survived as long as Simmi had if I had an Alex who was constantly grabby and needing to show PDAs all the time. And I think I would have flipped my lid if he insisted on joining the drama play because of his hatred for Dax. I kept thinking to myself, “Buddy, if you trust your girl, lay off! You’re suffocating her. Let her enjoy her drama rehearsal!” But then Alex goes and does something so sweet like stick up for Simmi’s honor.
But then we have Dax. The thorn in everyone’s side. I understand the fiasco that happened in book one, and I can see where people can be hesitant when it came to him, but my heart did go out to the guy. I can only imagine how lonely he could be having been ousted by his own parents, and forced to live under the same roof as Alex who can’t stand him. But when it came to Simmi, this romantic, sweet side of him came out and in all honesty, I would have fallen for him too.
I recommend Open Heart to fans of book one in this series, Farsighted and to fans of reads involving supernatural powers. I’m curious to see what happens in the next books in this series! Emlyn Chand has created a cast of characters that finds their way to your heart and mind.
March 13, 2013
In this second installment of the Farsighted Series, the story focuses on Simmi and is told from her point of view. Simmi is now dating Alex, and is once again best friends with Shapri. Simmi has gained a lot of weight and has very poor self-esteem. On top of that, she still feels guilty for the way that she got Alex to be her boyfriend, especially since he is so crazy about her, and she can't quite decide if she feels the same way. Dax, who is now living with Alex's family, stirs feelings inside her every time she sees him that are far from friendship, confusing her even further. Many new people with "special abilities" have now moved to town, resulting in a construction boom. Some of these new people are nice, like Murray, a freshman boy who has a great personality and is a lot of fun to be around and also has the same ability that Simmi does. Then there is Ronnie, who is not so nice. Ronnie is a blond bombshell with a bad attitude, and is also a spoiled brat who is used to getting her way. Even stranger is Ronnie's father, and the things that are revealed about him as the story progresses are even more mysterious. When forced to choose between Alex and Dax, will Simmi follow her heart at the risk of losing her friends?
Open Heart was an interesting second installment in the Farsighted series. I honestly can't say that I liked Simmi's character, though I did care more for her in this book. Simmi is very depressed about things in her life, including her past, and is overcome with grief and shame regarding her weight gain. She is desperate to lose the weight, which results in a battle with anorexia and bulimia, something she hides from everyone the entire time, though I think Dax may have an idea what may be going on. She loves her friends, but is also very self-absorbed and consumed with her own problems, desires, jealousy, and guilt. She cares for Alex and doesn't want to hurt his feelings, and winds up lying to him about how she feels, which only makes things worse. Alex is very moody in this novel and his obsession with Simmi is somewhat codependent. It is admirable how much he loves her, yet concerning as to how much he thinks he "needs" her. He is still very angry at Dax, especially now that he is living with his family, and his family seems to love Dax so much. If you are unfamiliar with the series, Alex is also blind, but has the gift of being a Seer, and has visions.
I did like Dax in this installment and in fact, found him to be quite charming. I even felt sorry for him because of how he has been misunderstood. I did start to like Simmi a little bit more towards the end of the book. For a "big" girl Simmi sure does now how to attract the guys, having both Alex and Dax pining for her, and she has a few "heavy" make-out scenes with them both. There is a devastating tragedy towards the end of this book, which is sad, but also helps Simmi see the truth about some things that have happened, and helps give her direction in making choices for the future. Overall, I found this to be an interesting second installment in this series. I enjoyed all the different ethnic elements that Emlyn Chand integrated in with the paranormal and romantic aspects of the story. It will be interesting to see where Emlyn Chand takes things in the next installment.
Open Heart was an interesting second installment in the Farsighted series. I honestly can't say that I liked Simmi's character, though I did care more for her in this book. Simmi is very depressed about things in her life, including her past, and is overcome with grief and shame regarding her weight gain. She is desperate to lose the weight, which results in a battle with anorexia and bulimia, something she hides from everyone the entire time, though I think Dax may have an idea what may be going on. She loves her friends, but is also very self-absorbed and consumed with her own problems, desires, jealousy, and guilt. She cares for Alex and doesn't want to hurt his feelings, and winds up lying to him about how she feels, which only makes things worse. Alex is very moody in this novel and his obsession with Simmi is somewhat codependent. It is admirable how much he loves her, yet concerning as to how much he thinks he "needs" her. He is still very angry at Dax, especially now that he is living with his family, and his family seems to love Dax so much. If you are unfamiliar with the series, Alex is also blind, but has the gift of being a Seer, and has visions.
I did like Dax in this installment and in fact, found him to be quite charming. I even felt sorry for him because of how he has been misunderstood. I did start to like Simmi a little bit more towards the end of the book. For a "big" girl Simmi sure does now how to attract the guys, having both Alex and Dax pining for her, and she has a few "heavy" make-out scenes with them both. There is a devastating tragedy towards the end of this book, which is sad, but also helps Simmi see the truth about some things that have happened, and helps give her direction in making choices for the future. Overall, I found this to be an interesting second installment in this series. I enjoyed all the different ethnic elements that Emlyn Chand integrated in with the paranormal and romantic aspects of the story. It will be interesting to see where Emlyn Chand takes things in the next installment.
August 19, 2012
So Emlyn did it again. She made me fall in love with her book and again it only took me hours to finish Open Heart.
This time we follow Simmi. And we see the world in an entirly different way than we did with Alex. For starters, i had no idea that Simmi was size fourteen/twelve. When Alex talked about her, i saw what he saw. Something beautiful. So when Simmi starts to worries about her figure i'm like "why?". It was the first time i get to see how all the characters really look on the outside. And it's funny because i can't say i missed it at Farsighted. Anyway, Simmi is a girl who feels bad about herself. One of those girls, who don't eat, and puke after the eat to get thinner. So we see a matter, really well known to most of the girls (maybe at not that extend but there is no way to not find some similarities..even some small ones) and we get to see how she thinks, what she believes of the people who try to help her, how she tries to keep up which is something really interesting to see. I've never read about a person with that kind of problems, and i never had someone close to me with problems like it so it was in a way something new to me. It's still difficult for me to fully comprehend why girls act like that, but now i have a better image on how they think so maybe if something like that appears in my life, i will manage to give better advice or just give them the book to help them.
Of course, there is also the "power" problems because let's not forget that all our characters have super cool powers. I really liked how Emlyn connected the powers to Simmi's problems. How comments that have been made about the powers could also apply in real life. It made it more real. And even if the book has less action than Farsighted, it was as interesting and a good read.
Now, you see those 4 stars up there? Well that's kind of funny because i would never give 4 stars to a book that i don't like the main character. You see Simmi is my least favorite character in the series. I can't say i liked her that much, and after some certain things she did at the book, i certainly dislike her now (i'm sorry but i found her so selfish xD). Still no matter what, the fact that i was able to not only connect with a character i don't like, but completely enjoy the book says something about Emlyn Chand's writing. Not only she knows what to say, but she also knows her characters so well that you never doubt what you are reading. Even when you don't agree with their actions or you don't like them, you have a certain respect for them as a characters. And i could even re-read the book again. It's THAT good! And not because of the story, but because of the whole world building.Every single detail makes sense. I really thought i won't manage to finish the book cause of Simmi but heh..it went away in no time.
I want to write way more things, and explain more and in detail but i really don't want to be spoilery so i'll stop. Another great book, which made me excited about the next in the series with Shapri's POV. I mean Shapri is my #3 favorite character, so i know i will love reading it. Only thing i'm changing is my rating at Farsighted. Is going up at 5 stars, because now i understood more about how it was written and how special as a book is.
This time we follow Simmi. And we see the world in an entirly different way than we did with Alex. For starters, i had no idea that Simmi was size fourteen/twelve. When Alex talked about her, i saw what he saw. Something beautiful. So when Simmi starts to worries about her figure i'm like "why?". It was the first time i get to see how all the characters really look on the outside. And it's funny because i can't say i missed it at Farsighted. Anyway, Simmi is a girl who feels bad about herself. One of those girls, who don't eat, and puke after the eat to get thinner. So we see a matter, really well known to most of the girls (maybe at not that extend but there is no way to not find some similarities..even some small ones) and we get to see how she thinks, what she believes of the people who try to help her, how she tries to keep up which is something really interesting to see. I've never read about a person with that kind of problems, and i never had someone close to me with problems like it so it was in a way something new to me. It's still difficult for me to fully comprehend why girls act like that, but now i have a better image on how they think so maybe if something like that appears in my life, i will manage to give better advice or just give them the book to help them.
Of course, there is also the "power" problems because let's not forget that all our characters have super cool powers. I really liked how Emlyn connected the powers to Simmi's problems. How comments that have been made about the powers could also apply in real life. It made it more real. And even if the book has less action than Farsighted, it was as interesting and a good read.
Now, you see those 4 stars up there? Well that's kind of funny because i would never give 4 stars to a book that i don't like the main character. You see Simmi is my least favorite character in the series. I can't say i liked her that much, and after some certain things she did at the book, i certainly dislike her now (i'm sorry but i found her so selfish xD). Still no matter what, the fact that i was able to not only connect with a character i don't like, but completely enjoy the book says something about Emlyn Chand's writing. Not only she knows what to say, but she also knows her characters so well that you never doubt what you are reading. Even when you don't agree with their actions or you don't like them, you have a certain respect for them as a characters. And i could even re-read the book again. It's THAT good! And not because of the story, but because of the whole world building.Every single detail makes sense. I really thought i won't manage to finish the book cause of Simmi but heh..it went away in no time.
I want to write way more things, and explain more and in detail but i really don't want to be spoilery so i'll stop. Another great book, which made me excited about the next in the series with Shapri's POV. I mean Shapri is my #3 favorite character, so i know i will love reading it. Only thing i'm changing is my rating at Farsighted. Is going up at 5 stars, because now i understood more about how it was written and how special as a book is.
May 28, 2012
Description:
After the events of last summer, Simmi Shergill is in a constant state of fear and trepidation; being convinced that you are going to die can do that to a person. Her psychic powers and focus are out of control, her boyfriend Alex is all about "I love you"s, she's feeling a strange attraction to Alex's nemesis, Dax, and her weight is making her self-conscious. To top that off, something sinister is happening in Grandon Township, and Simmi may be one of the only ones able to sense the danger. Can Simmi find the good inside herself and free her abilities before she loses everything?
Review:
I hate when a series starts out strong only to crumble during the second installment...Thank goodness that Emlyn Chand's Farsighted Series seems quite the opposite! Each book gets better and better, taking the reader deeper into the lives of Grandon's own psychically-charged residents: Simmi, Alex, Shapri, Dax, etc. I thought that Farsighted was amazing, but Open Heart is better! These characters are anything but typical, yes they are gifted, but they still battle with the same fears, insecurities and disillusions that many teens and adults suffer from in the real world. In Farsighted, Alex's blindness paired with his seer abilities made for an interesting plot. Everything was described from his perspective - touch, taste, smell and sound. In Open Heart, Simmi may have all of her senses, but she, like most women, is uncomfortable with the way she looks, delving into self-hating practices - starvation and bulimia. I myself have struggled with self-esteem and weight issues, so I can relate to Simmi's plight. You begin to feel like you are not good enough, even if there are people who love you unconditionally. I was truly affected by Simmi's story and point of view; I wanted to reach out to her, embrace her, to let her know she was not alone. High school is rough enough without the added pressures of looking and being perfect. Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, and Simmi is one of the most brilliantly beautiful and real characters that I have had the pleasure of reading about.The author has done a wonderful job on Simmi's character mentally, physically and psychically. I am quite awestruck by the book as a whole, it is so much more emotionally raw than I anticipated. Every character has a different background, and author Emlyn Chand is not afraid to tackle anything. She is definitely emotionally-keen, maybe even as psychically attuned as Simmi! Another aspect that I loved was the addition of Indian language and culture; I learned many interesting words and phrases, as well as some new far east mythology. I read this book in about two hours - nonstop - but I wish I would have taken it slower so that I would not have to wait so long for another book. The next book in the series is Pitch, and it will chronicle Shapri's story, so May 2013 better get here soon, because I am impatient and cannot wait to see what happens in Grandon next! Recommended for all readers (YA/adult) who are psychically drawn to the paranormal.
Rating: On the Run (4.5/5)
*** I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
Read my review of Farsighted - Book One in the Farsighted Series HERE!
After the events of last summer, Simmi Shergill is in a constant state of fear and trepidation; being convinced that you are going to die can do that to a person. Her psychic powers and focus are out of control, her boyfriend Alex is all about "I love you"s, she's feeling a strange attraction to Alex's nemesis, Dax, and her weight is making her self-conscious. To top that off, something sinister is happening in Grandon Township, and Simmi may be one of the only ones able to sense the danger. Can Simmi find the good inside herself and free her abilities before she loses everything?
Review:
I hate when a series starts out strong only to crumble during the second installment...Thank goodness that Emlyn Chand's Farsighted Series seems quite the opposite! Each book gets better and better, taking the reader deeper into the lives of Grandon's own psychically-charged residents: Simmi, Alex, Shapri, Dax, etc. I thought that Farsighted was amazing, but Open Heart is better! These characters are anything but typical, yes they are gifted, but they still battle with the same fears, insecurities and disillusions that many teens and adults suffer from in the real world. In Farsighted, Alex's blindness paired with his seer abilities made for an interesting plot. Everything was described from his perspective - touch, taste, smell and sound. In Open Heart, Simmi may have all of her senses, but she, like most women, is uncomfortable with the way she looks, delving into self-hating practices - starvation and bulimia. I myself have struggled with self-esteem and weight issues, so I can relate to Simmi's plight. You begin to feel like you are not good enough, even if there are people who love you unconditionally. I was truly affected by Simmi's story and point of view; I wanted to reach out to her, embrace her, to let her know she was not alone. High school is rough enough without the added pressures of looking and being perfect. Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, and Simmi is one of the most brilliantly beautiful and real characters that I have had the pleasure of reading about.The author has done a wonderful job on Simmi's character mentally, physically and psychically. I am quite awestruck by the book as a whole, it is so much more emotionally raw than I anticipated. Every character has a different background, and author Emlyn Chand is not afraid to tackle anything. She is definitely emotionally-keen, maybe even as psychically attuned as Simmi! Another aspect that I loved was the addition of Indian language and culture; I learned many interesting words and phrases, as well as some new far east mythology. I read this book in about two hours - nonstop - but I wish I would have taken it slower so that I would not have to wait so long for another book. The next book in the series is Pitch, and it will chronicle Shapri's story, so May 2013 better get here soon, because I am impatient and cannot wait to see what happens in Grandon next! Recommended for all readers (YA/adult) who are psychically drawn to the paranormal.
Rating: On the Run (4.5/5)
*** I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
Read my review of Farsighted - Book One in the Farsighted Series HERE!
July 12, 2012
Wow, did I ever feel like I was back in high school, reading the new YA novel, Open Heart! Remember the feelings that coursed through you back when you were 16, borne on a raging torrent of supercharged hormones? My high school tags would include words like messy, chaotic, panicky, depressed, elated, flip-flopping decisions, terrible decisions, nauseous, furious, homecoming dance, girlfriends, low self-esteem. It's all right here in this book.
The first book in the series, Farsighted, related events from Alex's point of view. Alex is blind and also clairvoyant. He can read people's minds. But you don't have to have first read Farsighted in order to enjoy Open Heart, which is told entirely from Simmi's point of view, Simmi being Alex's girlfriend.
Simmi is what you call clairsentient, meaning she can sense other people's feelings and control them as well, just by touching them. I accept that the characters in this series have these superpowers, but I also thought Simmi's special gift worked as a kind of metaphor for the hypersensitivity of kids in high school. When your girlfriend agrees to go to the dance, you're on top of the world. Then, when she drops you it's like the end of the world.
Simmi also has a special, very ordinary teenage problem relating to her weight and her feelings of low self-worth. This darkens the picture and for me at least makes everything in the story very real. I do not want to give anything away by divulging details, so I will just say that the theme of Simmi's sickness and how it affected all the people around her, despite her best efforts to hide it, was handled masterfully.
Simmi herself and some of her friends are of Indian descent, and there is a fair amount of Indian food and even words and expressions in Hindi in Open Heart. For me, this too helped the image form in my mind of an enormously complex world in which these teenagers are living and struggling to do what's right. Over and over again, Simmi makes a bad decision, and I found myself rooting for her to take a different path. But then I'm an adult, and adults are able to plan ahead and calculate the consequences of their actions (theoretically, at least), whereas teenagers are usually unable to do so. They're learning those skills. Exhorting them to think things out is like egging them on to grow up already. It doesn't work, because it can't be accelerated.
The kids are all trying out for the high school musical, and the show they're doing this year is West Side Story. Another beautiful touch in Open Heart is the idea that the ethnically diverse kids of today are playing roles in the famous Broadway musical that pits the Jets, who are white, against the sharks, who are Puerto Rican. In Simmi's audition she does a Bollywood dance with typical Indian hand movements, singing her heart out in a language the director and most of the others don't understand a word of, Hindi.
Emlyn Chand has captured this high school world perfectly in Open Heart. I never would have said it could be possible as I started the book, because I loved the premise of a blind boy who was clairvoyant in Farsighted, but I liked Open Heart even better than I liked Farsighted. It's a fantastic read.
The first book in the series, Farsighted, related events from Alex's point of view. Alex is blind and also clairvoyant. He can read people's minds. But you don't have to have first read Farsighted in order to enjoy Open Heart, which is told entirely from Simmi's point of view, Simmi being Alex's girlfriend.
Simmi is what you call clairsentient, meaning she can sense other people's feelings and control them as well, just by touching them. I accept that the characters in this series have these superpowers, but I also thought Simmi's special gift worked as a kind of metaphor for the hypersensitivity of kids in high school. When your girlfriend agrees to go to the dance, you're on top of the world. Then, when she drops you it's like the end of the world.
Simmi also has a special, very ordinary teenage problem relating to her weight and her feelings of low self-worth. This darkens the picture and for me at least makes everything in the story very real. I do not want to give anything away by divulging details, so I will just say that the theme of Simmi's sickness and how it affected all the people around her, despite her best efforts to hide it, was handled masterfully.
Simmi herself and some of her friends are of Indian descent, and there is a fair amount of Indian food and even words and expressions in Hindi in Open Heart. For me, this too helped the image form in my mind of an enormously complex world in which these teenagers are living and struggling to do what's right. Over and over again, Simmi makes a bad decision, and I found myself rooting for her to take a different path. But then I'm an adult, and adults are able to plan ahead and calculate the consequences of their actions (theoretically, at least), whereas teenagers are usually unable to do so. They're learning those skills. Exhorting them to think things out is like egging them on to grow up already. It doesn't work, because it can't be accelerated.
The kids are all trying out for the high school musical, and the show they're doing this year is West Side Story. Another beautiful touch in Open Heart is the idea that the ethnically diverse kids of today are playing roles in the famous Broadway musical that pits the Jets, who are white, against the sharks, who are Puerto Rican. In Simmi's audition she does a Bollywood dance with typical Indian hand movements, singing her heart out in a language the director and most of the others don't understand a word of, Hindi.
Emlyn Chand has captured this high school world perfectly in Open Heart. I never would have said it could be possible as I started the book, because I loved the premise of a blind boy who was clairvoyant in Farsighted, but I liked Open Heart even better than I liked Farsighted. It's a fantastic read.
February 14, 2013
It was different to see this world from a new set of eyes, as this second book in the Farsighted series is from Simmi's point of view, and the first was from Alex's. Simmi has a different gift, so therefore processes things differently, she of course can see, and she is a girl. So while I ultimately enjoyed her character (even if I despised how she handled certain things) and her voice, it took a bit to get used to the different narration.
She was also pushing away Alex at first, and being harsh with him, but I quickly figured out that was partly due to a self esteem issue. I, of course, had no idea what she looked like, just her smell and personality from Farsighted, so the fact that she is a size 14, a size she thinks is huge, contributes to her insecurities. (I am totally a 12-16 depending on pants, so I get the insecurities and feeling like most everyone is bigger than me.) There were a few other things that I can't really talk about without spoiling that made me doubt her actions, and wonder where she is coming from, because on the surface it is selfish. Maybe it is more because I was in Alex's head for the first book, but I don't know.
It was nice to see the theme of family involvement carried over. I appreciated that Simmi and her parents had dinner together with her little sister, and that they were concerned about her.
The issues of the eating disorder was very realistic. The way she tried to hide it and felt like she had control over something, when she in reality was losing it piece by piece. I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop and knew that it had to catch up to her. I wasn't really expecting something like this in my fantasy, but the dose of contemporary was unique. I really hope that more healing and understanding about real beauty comes to her as the series goes on.
It was so hard seeing her struggle with her feelings--I guess I should have been prepared from the summary and the end of Farsighted, but it didn't make it any easier. I can definitely see the appeal of Dax but I just think the betrayal is hard. I wish she would have just handled it all differently. I think when she had the first doubts about Alex, she should have backed off and maybe it would have been better. I am also nervous about the turn of events with her gift at the end and really hope that she can learn to control it, and only use for good. I believe she has a good heart, and regardless of some questionable decisions that all teens make at some point, I hope that the negative can't consume her.
As far as Dax goes, I hope that we are in his head really soon, because from the outside I am really liking what I see. He is gentlemanly, and learning to control himself so that no one else gets hurt. I hope that Alex is just jealous and letting that come before forgiveness, and not because he truly still feels or has seen something truly horrible that Dax will do.
Open Hearted is paced well, and I like how the plot continued, although I don't really feel like we are given a true ending to this one. It feels like it just stopped, and I can't wait for the next book.
Bottom line: The Farsighted world from new eyes, dealing with hard hitting emotional issues, and a choice that will hurt someone regardless.
She was also pushing away Alex at first, and being harsh with him, but I quickly figured out that was partly due to a self esteem issue. I, of course, had no idea what she looked like, just her smell and personality from Farsighted, so the fact that she is a size 14, a size she thinks is huge, contributes to her insecurities. (I am totally a 12-16 depending on pants, so I get the insecurities and feeling like most everyone is bigger than me.) There were a few other things that I can't really talk about without spoiling that made me doubt her actions, and wonder where she is coming from, because on the surface it is selfish. Maybe it is more because I was in Alex's head for the first book, but I don't know.
It was nice to see the theme of family involvement carried over. I appreciated that Simmi and her parents had dinner together with her little sister, and that they were concerned about her.
The issues of the eating disorder was very realistic. The way she tried to hide it and felt like she had control over something, when she in reality was losing it piece by piece. I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop and knew that it had to catch up to her. I wasn't really expecting something like this in my fantasy, but the dose of contemporary was unique. I really hope that more healing and understanding about real beauty comes to her as the series goes on.
It was so hard seeing her struggle with her feelings--I guess I should have been prepared from the summary and the end of Farsighted, but it didn't make it any easier. I can definitely see the appeal of Dax but I just think the betrayal is hard. I wish she would have just handled it all differently. I think when she had the first doubts about Alex, she should have backed off and maybe it would have been better. I am also nervous about the turn of events with her gift at the end and really hope that she can learn to control it, and only use for good. I believe she has a good heart, and regardless of some questionable decisions that all teens make at some point, I hope that the negative can't consume her.
As far as Dax goes, I hope that we are in his head really soon, because from the outside I am really liking what I see. He is gentlemanly, and learning to control himself so that no one else gets hurt. I hope that Alex is just jealous and letting that come before forgiveness, and not because he truly still feels or has seen something truly horrible that Dax will do.
Open Hearted is paced well, and I like how the plot continued, although I don't really feel like we are given a true ending to this one. It feels like it just stopped, and I can't wait for the next book.
Bottom line: The Farsighted world from new eyes, dealing with hard hitting emotional issues, and a choice that will hurt someone regardless.
March 6, 2013
Open Heart was very different from Farsighted. Being from a teenage girl’s perspective is something that I usually read anyway, but Farsighted was a lot more paranormal fantasy than Open Heart. I did love this book, but for very different reasons than the first book. Emlyn Chand has amazing talent; the differences in books 1 and 2 are amazing. Farsighted was full of intrigue and mystery (and of course from a teenage boy’s perspective) and Open Heart has more love and teenage peer pressure issues.
My first impressions of Open Heart was “what is wrong with Simmi, why is she so depressed and sad”? Simmi is recovering from their adventure on finding Dax and stopping him from killing anybody. Simmi has the ability to feel emotions from people around her and can change a person’s emotion by touching them. She is extremely worried and afraid of her abilities and doesn’t want to have that much power. Nobody should have that much power, it is dangerous.
You would think that after their adventure and knowing how much Alex loves Simmi, she would love him in return. But Simmi doesn’t know what her feelings are towards Alex and is really confused about Dax. She should hate Dax, but they seem drawn to each other. Simmi is having severe body issues and doesn’t think she is good enough for Alex. She believes that if Alex could see, he wouldn’t want to be with her. Going through these ideas, Simmi is trying to refrain from eating food and tries not to draw attention to this fact with all the people around her. Being jealous of her peers and having insecurities is turning Simmi into a stranger.
Alex still refuses to accept that Dax isn’t the bad guy any more. Dax has been disowned by his parents and is living with Alex’s family. Alex refuses to acknowledge his existence and will not allow Simmi and Dax to even be in the same room. Refusing them to even talk is making Dax and Simmi want to get together even more.
A new housing development is going ahead in the town and with it a lot more people are attending school. The developer has decided to donate and build a new school building to accommodate all the new students. But something seems very off with Mr Franklin and his daughter Veronica. They seem to get their way too often.
Will Simmi and Dax get together? What will happen with Simmi and Alex, can she get over her body image issues and love herself? Can Simmi accept her power and start using them again? Who is this new developer and are there more people in town with powers now?
Loved this book immensely, I definitely need book 3, Pitch, right now. I am addicted to this series and love how each book is on a different character and their life, but still carries on from the previous book. Awesome! Emlyn Chand’s writing style is fantastic, easy to read and the characters lovable. Although in Open Heart I was getting a little frustrated with Simmi. I really recommend this to all YA readers, this series is not just for fantasy/paranormal readers. Bring on Pitch, book 3!
My first impressions of Open Heart was “what is wrong with Simmi, why is she so depressed and sad”? Simmi is recovering from their adventure on finding Dax and stopping him from killing anybody. Simmi has the ability to feel emotions from people around her and can change a person’s emotion by touching them. She is extremely worried and afraid of her abilities and doesn’t want to have that much power. Nobody should have that much power, it is dangerous.
You would think that after their adventure and knowing how much Alex loves Simmi, she would love him in return. But Simmi doesn’t know what her feelings are towards Alex and is really confused about Dax. She should hate Dax, but they seem drawn to each other. Simmi is having severe body issues and doesn’t think she is good enough for Alex. She believes that if Alex could see, he wouldn’t want to be with her. Going through these ideas, Simmi is trying to refrain from eating food and tries not to draw attention to this fact with all the people around her. Being jealous of her peers and having insecurities is turning Simmi into a stranger.
Alex still refuses to accept that Dax isn’t the bad guy any more. Dax has been disowned by his parents and is living with Alex’s family. Alex refuses to acknowledge his existence and will not allow Simmi and Dax to even be in the same room. Refusing them to even talk is making Dax and Simmi want to get together even more.
A new housing development is going ahead in the town and with it a lot more people are attending school. The developer has decided to donate and build a new school building to accommodate all the new students. But something seems very off with Mr Franklin and his daughter Veronica. They seem to get their way too often.
Will Simmi and Dax get together? What will happen with Simmi and Alex, can she get over her body image issues and love herself? Can Simmi accept her power and start using them again? Who is this new developer and are there more people in town with powers now?
Loved this book immensely, I definitely need book 3, Pitch, right now. I am addicted to this series and love how each book is on a different character and their life, but still carries on from the previous book. Awesome! Emlyn Chand’s writing style is fantastic, easy to read and the characters lovable. Although in Open Heart I was getting a little frustrated with Simmi. I really recommend this to all YA readers, this series is not just for fantasy/paranormal readers. Bring on Pitch, book 3!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews