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Party
It's Saturday night in Santa Barbara and school is done for the year. Everyone is headed to the same party. Or at least it seems that way. The place is packed. The beer is flowing. Simple, right? But for 11 different people the motives are way more complicated. As each character takes a turn and tells his or her story, the eleven individuals intersect, and reconnect, collide, and combine in ways that none of them ever saw coming.
240 pages, Hardcover
First published April 1, 2010
36 people are currently reading
1728 people want to read
About the author
Tom Leveen
45 books238 followersTom Leveen is the author of nine novels originally with imprints of Random House, Simon & Schuster, Abrams, and more. He has written with Todd McFarlane on SPAWN, the comic book series, and fiction for the TTRPG BattleTech for Topps, Inc.
Recently an early literacy specialist with Phoenix Public Library, Tom has twelve years of previous library work experience. He also has 22 years of theatre experience as an actor and director, and has been the Artistic Director for two different award-winning theatre companies.
Tom wrote his first story in second grade and has been writing and telling stories ever since. His first horror novel, SICK, won the Westchester Fiction Award and the Grand Canyon Reader Award. His novel ZERO was a Best Book of 2013 (American Library Association/Young Adult Library Services Association).
A frequent guest speaker and teacher, Tom has taught, paneled, and/or keynoted for SCBWI, RWA, Desert Nights Rising Stars, Phoenix ComiCon, AzLA, NCTE, TEDx, People of Color Network, Western New Mexico University, Arizona State University, Arizona Reading Association, Kennesaw State University, multiple schools and conferences throughout Germany, AETA, the Los Angeles Teen Book Fest, and many others.
In addition, apropos of absolutely nothing, Tom:
Finished a marathon (in six and half hours) and a triathalon sprint in 2 hours, earned a blue belt in Tae Kwon Do, co-hosted a public access comedy show, directed 30 plays and acted in 30 more, ran a theatre company out of his backyard, met almost all of his literary heroes except for Stephen King, played in a punk band live in front of actual people (once), prefers the Hero System but nevertheless runs a warlock minotaur and storm cleric elf when time permits, trained at the Utah Shakespeare Festival Actor Training program for five sessions, was Best Masque & Gavel Member in high school, lettered in Speech, has a rock in one finger from a pretty bad bail on his (now stolen) Tony Hawk, was the safari train driver for the Phoenix Zoo for a short time, worked in the stock room for Forever 21 for an even shorter time, completed a Spartan Sprint with three friends, and spent twenty years earning his Bachelor of Science degree. He is currently in an MFA program at a major international university.
So if there's something you want to do, go do it.
Recently an early literacy specialist with Phoenix Public Library, Tom has twelve years of previous library work experience. He also has 22 years of theatre experience as an actor and director, and has been the Artistic Director for two different award-winning theatre companies.
Tom wrote his first story in second grade and has been writing and telling stories ever since. His first horror novel, SICK, won the Westchester Fiction Award and the Grand Canyon Reader Award. His novel ZERO was a Best Book of 2013 (American Library Association/Young Adult Library Services Association).
A frequent guest speaker and teacher, Tom has taught, paneled, and/or keynoted for SCBWI, RWA, Desert Nights Rising Stars, Phoenix ComiCon, AzLA, NCTE, TEDx, People of Color Network, Western New Mexico University, Arizona State University, Arizona Reading Association, Kennesaw State University, multiple schools and conferences throughout Germany, AETA, the Los Angeles Teen Book Fest, and many others.
In addition, apropos of absolutely nothing, Tom:
Finished a marathon (in six and half hours) and a triathalon sprint in 2 hours, earned a blue belt in Tae Kwon Do, co-hosted a public access comedy show, directed 30 plays and acted in 30 more, ran a theatre company out of his backyard, met almost all of his literary heroes except for Stephen King, played in a punk band live in front of actual people (once), prefers the Hero System but nevertheless runs a warlock minotaur and storm cleric elf when time permits, trained at the Utah Shakespeare Festival Actor Training program for five sessions, was Best Masque & Gavel Member in high school, lettered in Speech, has a rock in one finger from a pretty bad bail on his (now stolen) Tony Hawk, was the safari train driver for the Phoenix Zoo for a short time, worked in the stock room for Forever 21 for an even shorter time, completed a Spartan Sprint with three friends, and spent twenty years earning his Bachelor of Science degree. He is currently in an MFA program at a major international university.
So if there's something you want to do, go do it.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 245 reviews
January 31, 2020
What I really liked about this book was how normal it was. Sure, you've got Beckett, whose life really sucks. And Morrigan, who (despite her bitchy attitude) I felt a little bit of sympathy for. After all, her parents were completely idiots. And Anthony is dealing with his brother's injuries and his own football downward spiral. And Azize has to deal with racism. But as sad as they might be, those are relatively normal problems. Not everyone has intense, fictionalized drama going on. That being said, I feel like the best way for me to get my thoughts down would be to go through every narrator, so bear with me.
Beckett--I really liked her. I felt for her, despite not having gone through what she did. I'm not a huge fan of the ignore-everybody-because-I'm-trapped-in-my-own-problems frame of mind, but I found myself not really minding this quality in Beckett. And her cool hat helped me visualize her, oddly enough. I don't know.
Morrigan--like I said, I felt a little bit of sympathy for her. Sure, she annoyed the hell out of me at first, but she grew on me towards the end. I hated her for jerking Josh around, but she sort of realized where she went wrong, which redeemed her to an extent.
Tommy--he didn't really serve much purpose, except to set up Josh's storyline. He kind of faded from my mind once his chapter ended.
Brent--he also didn't serve much purpose, except to set up Max and Azize's storylines. I wasn't fond of him.
Daniel--basically another Tommy. Whatever. They can't all be winners.
Azize--he was interesting. Azize was hard-working, respectful, ambitious, and overall nice, which was an interesting contrast to the flock of dramatic SoCal kids. Azize just wanted to make one friend, and I liked how innocent that was. His internal conflict about the racism he faces was also interesting, and I felt for him. I hated Anthony for what he did to Azize (until I read Anthony's chapter, at least. Perspective is a powerful thing.)
Ryan--this was weird for me. Normally, I think the man-whore characters are annoying and pointless, but I liked Ryan just fine. Maybe I just had other things to focus on.
Anthony--until I read this chapter, I hated Anthony. He completely messed up poor Azize, which I thought was random and violent and just plain stupid. But then I read about his own issues. This doesn't excuse or justify what he did, but it explains it. And then he apologized to Azize and tried to make things right, and I had to respect that. He messed up, but he owned up to that fact and tried to repair things. Good man.
Josh--from the moment I read about him (probably in Morrigan's chapter), Josh became my favorite character. I just felt so bad for him. There he is, caught between the wishes of the girl he loves and the religious upbringing that was ingrained in him. He tries to do what everyone society him is right, and he gets rejected for it. This probably sparked one crazy internal conflict, and I couldn't help but feel so angry for him. I'm not religious, so I can't pretend to empathize, but I can imagine what it's like to have your religious views questioned and mocked and spit at by everyone from your friends to your girlfriend.
Max--he was adorable. I loved Max. There wasn't a whole lot to him, besides his intense attraction to Beckett, but that was all I really needed. He was just so sweet, especially compared to his dick friend Brent. I'm insanely glad that he 'got the girl' in the end. Despite not knowing the characters very well, I feel like they'd make a good couple. It was one of the more satisfying conflict resolutions.
Ashley--she seemed to be the center of the whole social wheel, so to speak. She's the dependable friend, the one everyone knows and likes. She's friends with Beckett, Morrigan, and Anthony, and she kind of has a friendly moment with Ryan. Even Daniel kind of likes her, from a distance. I felt like she was the character who wasn't exactly in any of the limelight, but the one backstage cleaning up all the messes everyone made. And her ending was satisfying; Beckett and Morrigan worked out their romantic deals in Ashley's chapter. Anthony and Azize kind of got everything worked out. And it was confirmation that Josh and Ryan made up after their fight. All in all, Ashley struck me as the one in the back, shaking her head at everyone's problems and trying to help everyone out. I liked that.
Whew. That's a lot of characters. Eight of which I really or kind of liked. So all in all, this book was a really good read, if not as dark or harrowing as I originally thought. I definitely recommend it to anyone who likes realistic fiction.
Beckett--I really liked her. I felt for her, despite not having gone through what she did. I'm not a huge fan of the ignore-everybody-because-I'm-trapped-in-my-own-problems frame of mind, but I found myself not really minding this quality in Beckett. And her cool hat helped me visualize her, oddly enough. I don't know.
Morrigan--like I said, I felt a little bit of sympathy for her. Sure, she annoyed the hell out of me at first, but she grew on me towards the end. I hated her for jerking Josh around, but she sort of realized where she went wrong, which redeemed her to an extent.
Tommy--he didn't really serve much purpose, except to set up Josh's storyline. He kind of faded from my mind once his chapter ended.
Brent--he also didn't serve much purpose, except to set up Max and Azize's storylines. I wasn't fond of him.
Daniel--basically another Tommy. Whatever. They can't all be winners.
Azize--he was interesting. Azize was hard-working, respectful, ambitious, and overall nice, which was an interesting contrast to the flock of dramatic SoCal kids. Azize just wanted to make one friend, and I liked how innocent that was. His internal conflict about the racism he faces was also interesting, and I felt for him. I hated Anthony for what he did to Azize (until I read Anthony's chapter, at least. Perspective is a powerful thing.)
Ryan--this was weird for me. Normally, I think the man-whore characters are annoying and pointless, but I liked Ryan just fine. Maybe I just had other things to focus on.
Anthony--until I read this chapter, I hated Anthony. He completely messed up poor Azize, which I thought was random and violent and just plain stupid. But then I read about his own issues. This doesn't excuse or justify what he did, but it explains it. And then he apologized to Azize and tried to make things right, and I had to respect that. He messed up, but he owned up to that fact and tried to repair things. Good man.
Josh--from the moment I read about him (probably in Morrigan's chapter), Josh became my favorite character. I just felt so bad for him. There he is, caught between the wishes of the girl he loves and the religious upbringing that was ingrained in him. He tries to do what everyone society him is right, and he gets rejected for it. This probably sparked one crazy internal conflict, and I couldn't help but feel so angry for him. I'm not religious, so I can't pretend to empathize, but I can imagine what it's like to have your religious views questioned and mocked and spit at by everyone from your friends to your girlfriend.
Max--he was adorable. I loved Max. There wasn't a whole lot to him, besides his intense attraction to Beckett, but that was all I really needed. He was just so sweet, especially compared to his dick friend Brent. I'm insanely glad that he 'got the girl' in the end. Despite not knowing the characters very well, I feel like they'd make a good couple. It was one of the more satisfying conflict resolutions.
Ashley--she seemed to be the center of the whole social wheel, so to speak. She's the dependable friend, the one everyone knows and likes. She's friends with Beckett, Morrigan, and Anthony, and she kind of has a friendly moment with Ryan. Even Daniel kind of likes her, from a distance. I felt like she was the character who wasn't exactly in any of the limelight, but the one backstage cleaning up all the messes everyone made. And her ending was satisfying; Beckett and Morrigan worked out their romantic deals in Ashley's chapter. Anthony and Azize kind of got everything worked out. And it was confirmation that Josh and Ryan made up after their fight. All in all, Ashley struck me as the one in the back, shaking her head at everyone's problems and trying to help everyone out. I liked that.
Whew. That's a lot of characters. Eight of which I really or kind of liked. So all in all, this book was a really good read, if not as dark or harrowing as I originally thought. I definitely recommend it to anyone who likes realistic fiction.
September 6, 2012
This review is for an advanced reader's copy.
I think the premise of this novel was very promising and the climax and falling action were both great, but the writing was, for the most part, not so good. The style through some of the chapters was just plain awful; I understand the author was trying to capture the way teens think, but literally putting in "or whatever," "or something," and other sayings similar every couple of sentences is not necessary. It was actually aggravating and distracting. Two of the characters were also utterly annoying and had no redeemable qualities or likeable characteristics. One of them was pretty prevalent in the story, also, so it's not so simple to ignore her. Most of the characters were two-dimensional and, while plenty were in a complete position to hold so much more depth, never achieved anything more than serving the purpose of pushing along the story. For most of them, they were practically interchangeable which did nothing to help the reader get attached or want to learn more. I found myself actually dreading reading the rest of this book when I wasn't even halfway done; even after the great climax, I still wasn't that interested to find out what happened to the characters. The ending seemed pretty unrealistic in the sense that it was too perfect; everyone got the best possible scenario, which never happens and hurt the novel's potential touch with reality. Overall, if this book had been edited much heavier and if the author had allowed for a greater exploration with his characters, the novel would have been a great addition to the YA genre. As it stands, it still seems unfinished and is ultimately disappointing.
I think the premise of this novel was very promising and the climax and falling action were both great, but the writing was, for the most part, not so good. The style through some of the chapters was just plain awful; I understand the author was trying to capture the way teens think, but literally putting in "or whatever," "or something," and other sayings similar every couple of sentences is not necessary. It was actually aggravating and distracting. Two of the characters were also utterly annoying and had no redeemable qualities or likeable characteristics. One of them was pretty prevalent in the story, also, so it's not so simple to ignore her. Most of the characters were two-dimensional and, while plenty were in a complete position to hold so much more depth, never achieved anything more than serving the purpose of pushing along the story. For most of them, they were practically interchangeable which did nothing to help the reader get attached or want to learn more. I found myself actually dreading reading the rest of this book when I wasn't even halfway done; even after the great climax, I still wasn't that interested to find out what happened to the characters. The ending seemed pretty unrealistic in the sense that it was too perfect; everyone got the best possible scenario, which never happens and hurt the novel's potential touch with reality. Overall, if this book had been edited much heavier and if the author had allowed for a greater exploration with his characters, the novel would have been a great addition to the YA genre. As it stands, it still seems unfinished and is ultimately disappointing.
February 17, 2013
Zum Buch
Das Schuljahr ist rum und alles wollen nur eines: Party machen und die Nacht zu etwas unvergesslichem machen.
Doch die Party verläuft anders als gedacht...
Charaktere
In diesem Buch gibt es 11 Hauptcharaktere, die man als Leser nach und nach kennen lernt.
Da gerade das Kennenlernen der verschiedenen Protagonisten so interessant war werde ich auf Diese nicht weiter eingehen.
Doch eines kann ich sagen: Jeder hatte seine Eigenschaften, Macken und Schwächen. Keiner gleichte dem anderen und es gab niemanden den ich gar nicht mochte.
Schreibstil & Aufbau
Der Schreibstil ist jugendgerecht aber auch für Erwachsene sehr ansprechend gehalten.
Jedes Kapitel wird aus der Sichtweise einer anderen der 11 Personen geschrieben, was mit Namen gekennzeichnet ist und man somit wirklich jeden nach und nach immer besser kennen lernt.
Das Buch nimmt relativ schnell an Fahrt an und der Schreibstil fesselt den Leser bis zum Schluss.
Fazit
Party von Tom Leveen hat mich begeistert. Die Idee hinter diesem Buch hat mir wahnsinnig gut gefallen.
11 Personen, alle auf dem Weg zur gleichen Party, alle haben andere Vorstellungen was sie in dieser Nacht erleben oder erreichen wollen und alle verbindet irgendetwas miteinander.
Die Idee des Autors jedes Kapitel aus einer anderen Sichtweise zu schreiben und somit dem Leser die Möglichkeit zu geben die Charaktere nach und nach, und nicht alle aufeinmal kennen zu lernen, hat mir sehr gut gefallen und mich total fasziniert.
Klar tauchte der ein oder andere schon einmal auf, doch dann endlich seine / ihre Sichtweise zu lesen und tiefer in die jeweilige Person einzudringen, war super interessant und faszinierend.
Die Atmosphäre wurde dank des tollen Schreibstils und der Wortwahl sehr gut rüber gebracht. Ich konnte die prickelnde Vorfreude auf die Party, die Spannung die über dieser einen Nacht lag quasi mit Händen greifen.
Auch die Charaktere waren mir alle, auf die ein oder andere Art und Weise, sehr sympathisch.
Mehr kann ich gar nicht sagen, weil ich nichts verraten will.
Ich kann dieses Buch ruhigen Gewissens zu einem meiner Lesehighlights im Januar zählen.
Das Schuljahr ist rum und alles wollen nur eines: Party machen und die Nacht zu etwas unvergesslichem machen.
Doch die Party verläuft anders als gedacht...
Charaktere
In diesem Buch gibt es 11 Hauptcharaktere, die man als Leser nach und nach kennen lernt.
Da gerade das Kennenlernen der verschiedenen Protagonisten so interessant war werde ich auf Diese nicht weiter eingehen.
Doch eines kann ich sagen: Jeder hatte seine Eigenschaften, Macken und Schwächen. Keiner gleichte dem anderen und es gab niemanden den ich gar nicht mochte.
Schreibstil & Aufbau
Der Schreibstil ist jugendgerecht aber auch für Erwachsene sehr ansprechend gehalten.
Jedes Kapitel wird aus der Sichtweise einer anderen der 11 Personen geschrieben, was mit Namen gekennzeichnet ist und man somit wirklich jeden nach und nach immer besser kennen lernt.
Das Buch nimmt relativ schnell an Fahrt an und der Schreibstil fesselt den Leser bis zum Schluss.
Fazit
Party von Tom Leveen hat mich begeistert. Die Idee hinter diesem Buch hat mir wahnsinnig gut gefallen.
11 Personen, alle auf dem Weg zur gleichen Party, alle haben andere Vorstellungen was sie in dieser Nacht erleben oder erreichen wollen und alle verbindet irgendetwas miteinander.
Die Idee des Autors jedes Kapitel aus einer anderen Sichtweise zu schreiben und somit dem Leser die Möglichkeit zu geben die Charaktere nach und nach, und nicht alle aufeinmal kennen zu lernen, hat mir sehr gut gefallen und mich total fasziniert.
Klar tauchte der ein oder andere schon einmal auf, doch dann endlich seine / ihre Sichtweise zu lesen und tiefer in die jeweilige Person einzudringen, war super interessant und faszinierend.
Die Atmosphäre wurde dank des tollen Schreibstils und der Wortwahl sehr gut rüber gebracht. Ich konnte die prickelnde Vorfreude auf die Party, die Spannung die über dieser einen Nacht lag quasi mit Händen greifen.
Auch die Charaktere waren mir alle, auf die ein oder andere Art und Weise, sehr sympathisch.
Mehr kann ich gar nicht sagen, weil ich nichts verraten will.
Ich kann dieses Buch ruhigen Gewissens zu einem meiner Lesehighlights im Januar zählen.
February 7, 2025
not gonna lie, the last few chapters made it, but I hate straight white men
April 29, 2010
Tom Leveen writes ‘Party’ in 11 chapters, one for each point of view presented. While we start with Beckett in Chapter 1, each additional chapter adds more information and additional perspectives, thus, building up the suspense and details that we can only get from the additional players in the story. The headings of the chapters are cool, as well, because all names are printed out, and the chapter’s lead character is highlighted.
Without being preachy, Leveen shows the world of YA that everyone has got something going on, for better or worse. Beckett is hiding a terrible secret and is making a plan of her own for her senior year of high school. Morrigan wants someone to show her that they love her, within her family and outside of her family. Tommy tries to be a good friend, even while checking out the evil ex-girlfriend’s friend (What harm could it do?) Brent is fed up with his love-sick friend and just wants to tear it up now that he’s finished senior year. Daniel checks out the blow-by-blow action, rooting for the demise of his friend’s ex-girlfriend, while checking out the potentials at the party. But this is where the suspense is turned up…WAY UP! Daniel forgets that he ordered a pizza…until the cops show up at the party.
I KNOW! Right?? Readers are started to get into the groove of this story and the individual mini-dramas of each, and then you get a bomb like that dropped at the end of the chapter…and it’s like, “What the hay is going on here, people?” Here’s my advice…plan for this A-bomb at the end of the chapter with Daniel. Don’t make any plans. Don’t think of starting this and then putting it down because from here on in, it’s an investment. You’re going to want to know what happens next. It gets better, scarier, more intense than you ever expected.
Our characters continue with Azize, the pizza delivery guy, who tries so hard to be good, even when the timing is not in his favor. Ryan is fiercely loyal, even when the situation looks as bad as it could get. Then there’s Anthony. Ah, yes, “Antho.” That boy just cannot get his mind off of his brother. He’s at a party and he’s watching the news, which gets some quizzical looks, but no one really messes with the guy, considering his size and position. Until someone does…mess with him that is. Someone who stands up to defend his honor, his family’s honor, and the honor of everyone else who has ever been profiled, racially or otherwise.
And this is where the A-bomb explodes. Everyone was having fun, until this thing that came from a place of fear mixed with Jack Daniels. It’s unstoppable, and readers begin to wonder if it can be fixed at all. The phrase that is haunting, “Make it right,” will stay with readers long after the book is finished.
Our closing chapters of Josh, Max, and then Ashley remind readers to go slow with your anger, take a chance on love, and to connect with real people. Isn’t that what life is all about?
Leveen has written a book not easily forgotten. It is mesmerizing in its dialogue and with its details.
If you'd like to read the original review, direct your browser here: http://www.examiner.com/x-15378-San-J...
Without being preachy, Leveen shows the world of YA that everyone has got something going on, for better or worse. Beckett is hiding a terrible secret and is making a plan of her own for her senior year of high school. Morrigan wants someone to show her that they love her, within her family and outside of her family. Tommy tries to be a good friend, even while checking out the evil ex-girlfriend’s friend (What harm could it do?) Brent is fed up with his love-sick friend and just wants to tear it up now that he’s finished senior year. Daniel checks out the blow-by-blow action, rooting for the demise of his friend’s ex-girlfriend, while checking out the potentials at the party. But this is where the suspense is turned up…WAY UP! Daniel forgets that he ordered a pizza…until the cops show up at the party.
I KNOW! Right?? Readers are started to get into the groove of this story and the individual mini-dramas of each, and then you get a bomb like that dropped at the end of the chapter…and it’s like, “What the hay is going on here, people?” Here’s my advice…plan for this A-bomb at the end of the chapter with Daniel. Don’t make any plans. Don’t think of starting this and then putting it down because from here on in, it’s an investment. You’re going to want to know what happens next. It gets better, scarier, more intense than you ever expected.
Our characters continue with Azize, the pizza delivery guy, who tries so hard to be good, even when the timing is not in his favor. Ryan is fiercely loyal, even when the situation looks as bad as it could get. Then there’s Anthony. Ah, yes, “Antho.” That boy just cannot get his mind off of his brother. He’s at a party and he’s watching the news, which gets some quizzical looks, but no one really messes with the guy, considering his size and position. Until someone does…mess with him that is. Someone who stands up to defend his honor, his family’s honor, and the honor of everyone else who has ever been profiled, racially or otherwise.
And this is where the A-bomb explodes. Everyone was having fun, until this thing that came from a place of fear mixed with Jack Daniels. It’s unstoppable, and readers begin to wonder if it can be fixed at all. The phrase that is haunting, “Make it right,” will stay with readers long after the book is finished.
Our closing chapters of Josh, Max, and then Ashley remind readers to go slow with your anger, take a chance on love, and to connect with real people. Isn’t that what life is all about?
Leveen has written a book not easily forgotten. It is mesmerizing in its dialogue and with its details.
If you'd like to read the original review, direct your browser here: http://www.examiner.com/x-15378-San-J...
November 8, 2010
Eleven teenagers, including skaters, a jock, and a girl with a secret, decide to attend an end of the year party. They each have their own reasons ranging from needing to make a friend to getting over being dumped. “Everyone” is expected to attend this party, yet none of them expect to have their lives connect in so many different ways. Each chapter is told from a different character’s perspective, giving the reader an opportunity to see the action from all angles.
I decided to read this book after reading a review that compared it to the Academy Award winning movie Crash (and if you haven’t seen that movie yet you must!). The first chapter is told from Beckett’s perspective, and I was instantly hooked by this character. She’s all alone in the world, yet extremely observant, and decides to attend this party because she needs to know she’s visible. Her character reminds me of Hannah Baker from Th1rteen R3asons Why only less harsh. As Beckett is deciding whether to show up at the party she sees her old best friend Ashley with another girl Morrigan. We find out why Ashley is her old best friend, what she thinks of Morrigan, and then the chapter switches to Morrigan. This carries on throughout the night until we have the full picture of the events as they play out.
I mostly enjoyed the differing perspectives because it made the story richer than just following one character. The only drawback is that I wanted more from some characters. Beckett’s view of the story ends after the first chapter, but we see her story play out as she encounters more characters during the night. A couple characters lack detail that I prefer when reading a story. Tommy, for example, didn’t strike me as a worthwhile character besides giving us more insight on how Josh copes with his breakup. I love Azize’s character and would have loved it if Tommy’s chapter was cut so we could have had more from Azize or even the lovesick, Max.
But, like I said, the different views give us a richer story. Morrigan, for example, is looked at in a variety of ways. Beckett sees Morrigan as her replacement with Ashley. Ryan looks at her as an overly drunk partier, and Josh sees her as the evil girl that dumped him out of nowhere. But then we get to read the chapter from Morrigan’s eyes and we know exactly what she’s thinking and feeling. We know how deep, hurt and confused she truly is. Of course, Morrigan isn’t the only rich character in Party. Tom Leveen has created quite a few rich characters, I only wish we could read even more about them.
Overall, I highly recommend reading Party by Tom Leveen. If you enjoyed Th1rteen R3asons Why by Jay Asher or if you enjoy how Ellen Hopkins brings characters together in her books like Impulse or Tricks, then you’ll really enjoy this novel. I’m looking forward to talking about this book with my students this coming school year!
I decided to read this book after reading a review that compared it to the Academy Award winning movie Crash (and if you haven’t seen that movie yet you must!). The first chapter is told from Beckett’s perspective, and I was instantly hooked by this character. She’s all alone in the world, yet extremely observant, and decides to attend this party because she needs to know she’s visible. Her character reminds me of Hannah Baker from Th1rteen R3asons Why only less harsh. As Beckett is deciding whether to show up at the party she sees her old best friend Ashley with another girl Morrigan. We find out why Ashley is her old best friend, what she thinks of Morrigan, and then the chapter switches to Morrigan. This carries on throughout the night until we have the full picture of the events as they play out.
I mostly enjoyed the differing perspectives because it made the story richer than just following one character. The only drawback is that I wanted more from some characters. Beckett’s view of the story ends after the first chapter, but we see her story play out as she encounters more characters during the night. A couple characters lack detail that I prefer when reading a story. Tommy, for example, didn’t strike me as a worthwhile character besides giving us more insight on how Josh copes with his breakup. I love Azize’s character and would have loved it if Tommy’s chapter was cut so we could have had more from Azize or even the lovesick, Max.
But, like I said, the different views give us a richer story. Morrigan, for example, is looked at in a variety of ways. Beckett sees Morrigan as her replacement with Ashley. Ryan looks at her as an overly drunk partier, and Josh sees her as the evil girl that dumped him out of nowhere. But then we get to read the chapter from Morrigan’s eyes and we know exactly what she’s thinking and feeling. We know how deep, hurt and confused she truly is. Of course, Morrigan isn’t the only rich character in Party. Tom Leveen has created quite a few rich characters, I only wish we could read even more about them.
Overall, I highly recommend reading Party by Tom Leveen. If you enjoyed Th1rteen R3asons Why by Jay Asher or if you enjoy how Ellen Hopkins brings characters together in her books like Impulse or Tricks, then you’ll really enjoy this novel. I’m looking forward to talking about this book with my students this coming school year!
April 22, 2011
This actually turned out to be one of my favorite books! I've never read a book like Tom Leveen's, 'Party', since it had the 11 narrators, but I loved it. It's rare to find a book that has the perspective of pretty much all of the main-ish characters involved, so it doesn't leave you wondering, 'Wow, i wonder how they feel about this!'. I like the set up of the chapters too, so you're not confused how they randomly switched to a new narrator. When i first started reading this book i thought it was going to be a normal teenage drama about hookups at a party. But when i started reading it, i was pleasantly surprised! It did involve a good amount of the normal party behavior, but there were also underlying problems going on with some of the characters..it wasn't just them partying. The chapters ended SO suspenseful, it's impossible to put this book down. The characters are witty, funny, and at sometimes cute.. as a teen myself i had to admit i had a major crush on Max & Josh's character..so sweet! I loved the diversity of the characters, (skater, football player, quiet girl, the nice friend, etc.) I felt like i knew all of the characters, since their stories were perfectly portrayed. I highly recommend this book for teens & adults! :D
July 26, 2013
Party is told from the point of view of eleven different teenagers, all attending the same end of year party. Each chapter has bits from the others, only told from different points of view. I'm giving this 4.5 stars out of 5 but I round up instead of down, for Goodreads purposes.
I think Tom Leveen really did a great job - each character has a distinct point of view and their own secrets to hide, which aren't fully disclosed in their own chapter but only after reading the entire book. I have to admit, I got a little nervous about halfway through the book because I wasn't sure if I liked the direction the book was taking - but I was definitely happy when I finished the book. I'm not saying that everything ends up roses, but I felt like I really understood everyone once I read the entire thing.
Just because you sometimes do dumb things or act a certain way, you shouldn't let that set how you are. People make mistakes. People are jerks. People get scared and act stupidly because of it. Whether or not they learn from what they've done and reach out to others instead of hiding inside of themselves, that's what's going to make the difference. I'm looking forward to reading more books by Tom Leveen.
I think Tom Leveen really did a great job - each character has a distinct point of view and their own secrets to hide, which aren't fully disclosed in their own chapter but only after reading the entire book. I have to admit, I got a little nervous about halfway through the book because I wasn't sure if I liked the direction the book was taking - but I was definitely happy when I finished the book. I'm not saying that everything ends up roses, but I felt like I really understood everyone once I read the entire thing.
Just because you sometimes do dumb things or act a certain way, you shouldn't let that set how you are. People make mistakes. People are jerks. People get scared and act stupidly because of it. Whether or not they learn from what they've done and reach out to others instead of hiding inside of themselves, that's what's going to make the difference. I'm looking forward to reading more books by Tom Leveen.
May 24, 2015
Grade: B+
The last day of school.
An epic PARTY.
Friends. Lovers. Enemies. Strangers.
A fight with racial undertones.
Drinking.
An automobile accident.
Cops.
Lives changed forever.
Told in multiple points of view, Tom Leveen weaves together stories of classmates whose lives intersect, come apart and together before the night is complete. My favorite characters were Azize, Beckett and Ashley, and Morrigan and Josh my least. Each character had both positive and negative traits, each had sympathetic qualities. I would have loved a whole novel about Beckett, who was living on her own after her mother's death from cancer five months earlier. Leveen did a great job of moving the story along through the different POVs with enough overlap to show more that one side of a story, but not so much as to feel repetitive. I read PARTY is one sitting. Leveen adeptly gave unique voices to each character. I'll look forward to reading his other novels.
THEMES: high school, family, racism, PTSD, romance, break ups, sex, drinking, drugs, fighting, friendship
PARTY is a quick read filled with unique characters with timely backstories.
The last day of school.
An epic PARTY.
Friends. Lovers. Enemies. Strangers.
A fight with racial undertones.
Drinking.
An automobile accident.
Cops.
Lives changed forever.
Told in multiple points of view, Tom Leveen weaves together stories of classmates whose lives intersect, come apart and together before the night is complete. My favorite characters were Azize, Beckett and Ashley, and Morrigan and Josh my least. Each character had both positive and negative traits, each had sympathetic qualities. I would have loved a whole novel about Beckett, who was living on her own after her mother's death from cancer five months earlier. Leveen did a great job of moving the story along through the different POVs with enough overlap to show more that one side of a story, but not so much as to feel repetitive. I read PARTY is one sitting. Leveen adeptly gave unique voices to each character. I'll look forward to reading his other novels.
THEMES: high school, family, racism, PTSD, romance, break ups, sex, drinking, drugs, fighting, friendship
PARTY is a quick read filled with unique characters with timely backstories.
July 9, 2010
OK, so I get that this was a novel with overlapping story lines. However, was it really necessary to repeat certain scenes over and over again?
The first narrator is Beckett, who I actually really liked. She was what gave me hope that this book might be pretty decent. She has such a hardknock life that automatically, as a reader, I was sympathizing and rooting for her. (I will say that I was happy to see where her character ended up).
However, from Beckett we went to Morrigan who might be my least favorite character. Ever. In any book. She was whiny, irritating, mean-spirited, spoiled, etc. And none of those traits were written in a way where she was one of those evil, mean girl characters that you love to hate. I just wanted to hate her. Period.
From there it was pretty much all down hill. I never really got into any of the other characters as I had done with Beckett and a few chapters in I just wanted it to be over. The ending seemed to come together a little too neatly as well.
I give Party a big "eh."
The first narrator is Beckett, who I actually really liked. She was what gave me hope that this book might be pretty decent. She has such a hardknock life that automatically, as a reader, I was sympathizing and rooting for her. (I will say that I was happy to see where her character ended up).
However, from Beckett we went to Morrigan who might be my least favorite character. Ever. In any book. She was whiny, irritating, mean-spirited, spoiled, etc. And none of those traits were written in a way where she was one of those evil, mean girl characters that you love to hate. I just wanted to hate her. Period.
From there it was pretty much all down hill. I never really got into any of the other characters as I had done with Beckett and a few chapters in I just wanted it to be over. The ending seemed to come together a little too neatly as well.
I give Party a big "eh."
January 26, 2012
It’s Saturday night and the big end of the school year party is going down. Everyone will be there and each of them has different expectations for the night. Some want to spend one last night of fun with classmates before summer vacation, while others just want to get drunk. A few more just want to get noticed while some just want to make a friend. Party focuses on eleven different teens at the party and each chapter is written from one of their points of view. Their stories connect and intersect as we read about their problems, fears and dreams. Leveen effectively explores loss, friendship, dating, sex and racism in this compelling read that will appeal to both boys and girls alike. Adults will even appreciate this one as it will remind them of classic teen cinema such as “The Breakfast Club” and “Sixteen Candles.”
September 7, 2010
I could read this book a million times... The jokes never get old. The only thing I didn't like was Ashley's, "What's the go?" It was really annoying after the first three chapters.
I think Tom Leveen is a friggin' genius! It seems so hard to conjure up eleven different viewpoints and have them collide.
My favorite character is definatly... Azize. Well, either Azize or Brent. Brent's pretty funny. Oh and I can't forget Morrigan!
I got annoyed with Beckett and her drama... I got mad at Anthony really easily. He was being such a drama-queen. And so, for that matter, was Josh. Josh is such a baby. And Max was just... too focused. He needed a life.
Okay... so the characters weren't perfect, but they were so realistic. Oh man, this book's a keeper. ;]
I think Tom Leveen is a friggin' genius! It seems so hard to conjure up eleven different viewpoints and have them collide.
My favorite character is definatly... Azize. Well, either Azize or Brent. Brent's pretty funny. Oh and I can't forget Morrigan!
I got annoyed with Beckett and her drama... I got mad at Anthony really easily. He was being such a drama-queen. And so, for that matter, was Josh. Josh is such a baby. And Max was just... too focused. He needed a life.
Okay... so the characters weren't perfect, but they were so realistic. Oh man, this book's a keeper. ;]
January 3, 2011
Here's a mini review:
I just didn't understand the point of this book. There were eleven different characters, why? I was wondering that quite a few times for the part of the book I read. I couldn't even make it to the end. I read to page fifty, and when I found out I wasn't liking it, I just gave up on it. My main thing that I didn't like about it was I just didn't get the importance of some of the characters. Why have a whole part about that particular character when they don't really matter? I also didn't like the author's writing style. I probably would've enjoyed the book more if I liked the style of it better. Grade: F (Couldn't Finish.)
I just didn't understand the point of this book. There were eleven different characters, why? I was wondering that quite a few times for the part of the book I read. I couldn't even make it to the end. I read to page fifty, and when I found out I wasn't liking it, I just gave up on it. My main thing that I didn't like about it was I just didn't get the importance of some of the characters. Why have a whole part about that particular character when they don't really matter? I also didn't like the author's writing style. I probably would've enjoyed the book more if I liked the style of it better. Grade: F (Couldn't Finish.)
March 25, 2011
I didn't expect this book to be good. I read it because it was in my to-read list and I wanted to get it out. The beginning managed to catch my attention and from there it slowly dragged me in. Before I knew it I was telling my poor friends everthing, and thinking about it when I wasn't reading it! This book got better and better, and the ending was great! The characters were so real and believable. I truly liked this book and am very glad I read it!
April 29, 2010
WOW. I just put this book down thirty seconds ago after crying my eyes out--in a good way.
Leveen does a FANTASTIC job capturing the voices, the stories, the emotions and the turmoils of several different teens attending the same end-of-year party. The story is face-paced, tense, funny at times, very moving throughout, and ultimately uplifting and deeply satisfying.
What a tremendous first effort by this debut novelist. Leveen is a genuine talent to watch.
Leveen does a FANTASTIC job capturing the voices, the stories, the emotions and the turmoils of several different teens attending the same end-of-year party. The story is face-paced, tense, funny at times, very moving throughout, and ultimately uplifting and deeply satisfying.
What a tremendous first effort by this debut novelist. Leveen is a genuine talent to watch.
May 7, 2010
"I'm the girl nobody knows until she commits suicide." You can't get more chilling than that. Or enticing. It goes without saying that I was hooked by first line. Party is an amazing debut for Tom Leveen! It's contemporary and smart. Tom captures the voices of teen angst. Whether you are a party-goer or not, teens will relate to the various characters in each chapter. Jock, nerd, loner, popular, etc. Tying them all together in one catalyst event in their young lives.
July 6, 2010
For a first book, I am impressed with what this author was able to tackle. Each chapter is written from the perspective of a different character. I especially enjoyed Josh, the Christian of the book, while not perfect, he never pushed his faith or opinions on others. I want to be like that - different enough that people know I'm a believer, but also not pushing my beliefs on anyone else.
Read
March 12, 2017With each chapter being written from a different character's view point the reader is able to see life through so many varying eyes. Although this book takes place only over a span of a few hours there's enough teenage drama to make it feel like week. this book could be used to put a focus on racism and current social issues while still being relatable to some, possibly most, teens.
July 26, 2012
while I appreciated the multiple viewpoints of the characters--and the distinct voices of some of them--the language was harsher than I like.
Read
February 21, 2015Loved it. Really great voice.
December 28, 2013
This book was pretty good. It made me feel warm and fuzzy after reading, as though the main characters all got to a better place than they were at before that night. Now, the mere idea of the crazy, school-wide party was a bit farfetched, but it was executed realistically. The huge ensemble cast could've ended up as one hot mess (see: every ensemble movie ever, from New Year's Eve to Valentine's Day), but most voices were distinct... or at least helped introduce characters or move the plot along. Yes, it was gimmicky — and I liked it anyway.
There were really three main plot lines (Beckett-Ashley, Morrigan-Josh, Anthony-Azize), and every other character contributed to those storylines. I have to say I was partial to the Morrigan-Josh storyline, often wishing we could stay there longer. Anthony-Azize was so heartbreaking from both ends, and it really gave insight to racism and hate. And Beckett-Ashley... I'm not going to lie, it was frustrating. I was as mad at Beckett as Ashley was. And really, Beckett couldn't be any luckier to have such a good, reliable friend.
Beckett: So many of her problems were self-imposed. She hated being lonely, but isolated herself from her support system. She was willing to be such a martyr, except she pitied herself way too much. Her storyline really made you think, especially pertaining to Max. Here she was, thinking she didn't matter to anyone. When really, she was practically someone else's world — and she didn't even know who he was.
Morrigan: If I hadn't heard her perspective so early on, I probably would've hated her. How dare she hurt Josh like that? How dare she act that way to Beckett?! But seeing her life made me root for her. She made huge mistakes and paid the price for them. Well, except with Josh. Really, she acted way out of line with him. She definitely deserved to grovel more.
Tommy & Daniel: Their chapters weren't together, but they were practically the same person. Two amigos that faded into the background (but at least got chapters, unlike poor Matt). My gripe with these boys was how casually they acted towards certain unsavoury behaviour. They referred to women with derogatory terms, smoked, drank, and pretty much subsisted solely to have a great time. I kinda hoped something would happen between Daniel and Ashley, but nothing bloomed (boo).
Brent: I was not a fan of Brent at all. He also faded into the background. In the story, I'd say his existence was more inconsequential than Beckett's by a long shot, yet he thought he was important. He'd sit there and talk to people, try to be relevant, and they'd all brush him off as a "random surfer dude." I almost felt sorry for him. Except he fuelled racist hate through ignorance even more than Anthony, and with less justification, without receiving any repercussions. He didn't turn over a new leaf or make any sudden realizations by the end of it. It made me pretty sad.
Azize: Oh baby, I had such a soft spot for you. Being an immigrant is hard, and being a minority among the ignorant is even harder. Azize's voice was so optimistic and so genuine. He dreamt of a happier, better life. He was kind to people who treated him poorly. I can only hope he recovers and one day manages to build the palace of his dreams.
Ryan: This guy was a jerk, but I loved him anyway. His charisma must've put me under a spell too, I guess. His antics and debauchery caught up with him by his chapter, but I think he's really a stand-up guy at heart. He's young. I hope he's learned his lesson, gets it all out of his system, and winds up okay.
Anthony: I knew something was up with Anthony during Brent's chapter, but I didn't expect to be torn up about it after everything that happened with Azize. Poor guy's had a hard time. It didn't excuse his behaviour, and he realized that. He messed up, and he went to do something about it. I'm glad he had people there to support him and help him get to that better place.
Josh: RUN AWAY FROM MORRIGAN AND DATE ME. Josh was such a sweetheart. His chapter kind of sucked (I just didn't like the format of it, but I know it had to be "different"), but his character was on point throughout the rest of the book. He had strong morals and convictions, but he still knew how to LIVE. He still knew how to have a good time, he didn't impose his beliefs on others, and he still made close ties with people. Often times, people like Josh are viewed as prudes or lepers in society. But Josh showed how controversial personal decisions don't have to matter. Peer pressure is only a monster if you let it get to you.
Max: I felt sorry for this dude. His feelings for Beckett went so unnoticed for so long. It was pretty convenient that he got swept up in all the drama by being at the right place at the right time. But hey, good for him for actually summoning the guts to do what he wanted. Really, he was just another fringe character too. His whole storyline was to lift up Beckett and show her progress; her ability to reconnect with others. He was also there to kinda validate her. But hey, I have a feeling he'll support her until the ends of time.
Ashley: This girl was way too kind for her own good. And holy, she was involved in SO MUCH DRAMA. She was involved in all the storylines and sub-storylines in one way or another, so it made sense that her chapter rounded out the book. She was the glue that kept people together and fixed things when they all went south. She spent so much time dealing with other people's problems that there was little development surrounding herself. But she still seemed to be in a better place by the end of the book — hopeful for what the summer (and future) would bring for her. And hey, treat others the way you want to be treated, right?
There were really three main plot lines (Beckett-Ashley, Morrigan-Josh, Anthony-Azize), and every other character contributed to those storylines. I have to say I was partial to the Morrigan-Josh storyline, often wishing we could stay there longer. Anthony-Azize was so heartbreaking from both ends, and it really gave insight to racism and hate. And Beckett-Ashley... I'm not going to lie, it was frustrating. I was as mad at Beckett as Ashley was. And really, Beckett couldn't be any luckier to have such a good, reliable friend.
Beckett: So many of her problems were self-imposed. She hated being lonely, but isolated herself from her support system. She was willing to be such a martyr, except she pitied herself way too much. Her storyline really made you think, especially pertaining to Max. Here she was, thinking she didn't matter to anyone. When really, she was practically someone else's world — and she didn't even know who he was.
Morrigan: If I hadn't heard her perspective so early on, I probably would've hated her. How dare she hurt Josh like that? How dare she act that way to Beckett?! But seeing her life made me root for her. She made huge mistakes and paid the price for them. Well, except with Josh. Really, she acted way out of line with him. She definitely deserved to grovel more.
Tommy & Daniel: Their chapters weren't together, but they were practically the same person. Two amigos that faded into the background (but at least got chapters, unlike poor Matt). My gripe with these boys was how casually they acted towards certain unsavoury behaviour. They referred to women with derogatory terms, smoked, drank, and pretty much subsisted solely to have a great time. I kinda hoped something would happen between Daniel and Ashley, but nothing bloomed (boo).
Brent: I was not a fan of Brent at all. He also faded into the background. In the story, I'd say his existence was more inconsequential than Beckett's by a long shot, yet he thought he was important. He'd sit there and talk to people, try to be relevant, and they'd all brush him off as a "random surfer dude." I almost felt sorry for him. Except he fuelled racist hate through ignorance even more than Anthony, and with less justification, without receiving any repercussions. He didn't turn over a new leaf or make any sudden realizations by the end of it. It made me pretty sad.
Azize: Oh baby, I had such a soft spot for you. Being an immigrant is hard, and being a minority among the ignorant is even harder. Azize's voice was so optimistic and so genuine. He dreamt of a happier, better life. He was kind to people who treated him poorly. I can only hope he recovers and one day manages to build the palace of his dreams.
Ryan: This guy was a jerk, but I loved him anyway. His charisma must've put me under a spell too, I guess. His antics and debauchery caught up with him by his chapter, but I think he's really a stand-up guy at heart. He's young. I hope he's learned his lesson, gets it all out of his system, and winds up okay.
Anthony: I knew something was up with Anthony during Brent's chapter, but I didn't expect to be torn up about it after everything that happened with Azize. Poor guy's had a hard time. It didn't excuse his behaviour, and he realized that. He messed up, and he went to do something about it. I'm glad he had people there to support him and help him get to that better place.
Josh: RUN AWAY FROM MORRIGAN AND DATE ME. Josh was such a sweetheart. His chapter kind of sucked (I just didn't like the format of it, but I know it had to be "different"), but his character was on point throughout the rest of the book. He had strong morals and convictions, but he still knew how to LIVE. He still knew how to have a good time, he didn't impose his beliefs on others, and he still made close ties with people. Often times, people like Josh are viewed as prudes or lepers in society. But Josh showed how controversial personal decisions don't have to matter. Peer pressure is only a monster if you let it get to you.
Max: I felt sorry for this dude. His feelings for Beckett went so unnoticed for so long. It was pretty convenient that he got swept up in all the drama by being at the right place at the right time. But hey, good for him for actually summoning the guts to do what he wanted. Really, he was just another fringe character too. His whole storyline was to lift up Beckett and show her progress; her ability to reconnect with others. He was also there to kinda validate her. But hey, I have a feeling he'll support her until the ends of time.
Ashley: This girl was way too kind for her own good. And holy, she was involved in SO MUCH DRAMA. She was involved in all the storylines and sub-storylines in one way or another, so it made sense that her chapter rounded out the book. She was the glue that kept people together and fixed things when they all went south. She spent so much time dealing with other people's problems that there was little development surrounding herself. But she still seemed to be in a better place by the end of the book — hopeful for what the summer (and future) would bring for her. And hey, treat others the way you want to be treated, right?
September 11, 2017
I liked this book because it was written in a different way than most. It's one of those where every chapter is a different person talking but they all have some kind of connected relationship (if you have ever seen the TV show Modern Family, it's like that). It is intense and very teen-ish. There are many kids all at a party and it goes through the whole night at the party and then two boys get into a fight so the main portion of the book is everyone saying their side of the story from the fight. And you see how everyone relates. I'd say an OK book, but the only reason I'd recommend it is because unlike other authors that try this type of method ( different character each chapter ) I didn't get confused of who was talking and how it all connects.
May 1, 2010
It’s the biggest party happening in Santa Barbara and everyone’s coming. For some this party can mean something different. Told in eleven different point of views, Tom Leveen covers all the bases when it comes to personality.
The novel begins with Beckett the girl who was once so bubbly and fun had the life drained out of her when her mom got cancer. She promised to never tell anyone—not her father who left and not her best friend, Ashley, who she’s slowly distancing herself from—even when the cancer finally won. But what little money her mother’s bank account had is slowly dwindling and Beckett must choose between an education and work. In one last effort to see who just might notice this shy, inverted girl in the small corner, Beckett decides to go to the party.
Then the point of view switches to Morrigan’s. Morrigan is a wild child who will do anything to piss her parents off. Why? Because they just don’t care. After breaking up with her boyfriend, Josh, of six months because he wasn’t willing to have sex Morrigan is ready to mix and mingle at the party.
Tommy is just looking out for Josh. (Um yeah. He doesn’t leave much of an impact to me).
Brent likes to skate. He is also unintentionally mean. (No lasting impact).
Daniel—see Tommy, but likes Ashley. (No lasting impact).
Azize is from Turkey whose family moved to Santa Barbara after an incident in Arizona that was less pleasing. Azize is a friend of Beckett who also shares his love for comic books, but he’s looking to have more than one friend. At the party he befriends Max, who is friends with Brent, who also just happened to like Beckett. Sensing an opportunity to help out both friends Azize promises to get Beckett to talk to Max.
Ryan—see Daniel, minus Ashley add likes to hook up with people. (Ryan who?)
Anthony is the star football player and had the perfect season…that is until his brother came back home. He left to fight in the war in the Middle East, but he came back with a body that proves it. Anthony, after drinking an entire Jack bottle himself, is less than happy to see Azize at the party and things become dangerous.
Josh—Morrigan’s ex. Likes to curse apparently.
Max has always noticed Beckett from afar, but was too shy to approach her. Hoping to grow a pair, Max is positive that he’ll talk to her at the party because the number 13 is lucky isn’t it?
Ashley is a great friend. Cool, calm, and collected. Best friend to Morrigan, Ashley’s there to pick up the mess, but at this party Ashley’s hoping to wipe the distance between her and Beckett.
Tom Leveen really should have stopped at Beckett. I only liked about 3-4 of the characters and found only about half of them memorable. Some of the POVs I find to be really useless. There was also one character, Morrigan, who I really just hated throughout all 11 POVs.
To me, The Party is like a classic novel. You know you should really like it because it covers themes and real life situations so emotionally and vividly, but you’re just struggling to make it through. I’m on the middle when it comes to this book; I know I should like, I kind of do like it, but then again I really did not like some of it.
The novel starts off extremely strong, falters, declines, gets a kick-start, hits a nose dive, and then steadies out. The novel ends with an uplifting tone, however, so readers will get that happily ever after.
The novel begins with Beckett the girl who was once so bubbly and fun had the life drained out of her when her mom got cancer. She promised to never tell anyone—not her father who left and not her best friend, Ashley, who she’s slowly distancing herself from—even when the cancer finally won. But what little money her mother’s bank account had is slowly dwindling and Beckett must choose between an education and work. In one last effort to see who just might notice this shy, inverted girl in the small corner, Beckett decides to go to the party.
Then the point of view switches to Morrigan’s. Morrigan is a wild child who will do anything to piss her parents off. Why? Because they just don’t care. After breaking up with her boyfriend, Josh, of six months because he wasn’t willing to have sex Morrigan is ready to mix and mingle at the party.
Tommy is just looking out for Josh. (Um yeah. He doesn’t leave much of an impact to me).
Brent likes to skate. He is also unintentionally mean. (No lasting impact).
Daniel—see Tommy, but likes Ashley. (No lasting impact).
Azize is from Turkey whose family moved to Santa Barbara after an incident in Arizona that was less pleasing. Azize is a friend of Beckett who also shares his love for comic books, but he’s looking to have more than one friend. At the party he befriends Max, who is friends with Brent, who also just happened to like Beckett. Sensing an opportunity to help out both friends Azize promises to get Beckett to talk to Max.
Ryan—see Daniel, minus Ashley add likes to hook up with people. (Ryan who?)
Anthony is the star football player and had the perfect season…that is until his brother came back home. He left to fight in the war in the Middle East, but he came back with a body that proves it. Anthony, after drinking an entire Jack bottle himself, is less than happy to see Azize at the party and things become dangerous.
Josh—Morrigan’s ex. Likes to curse apparently.
Max has always noticed Beckett from afar, but was too shy to approach her. Hoping to grow a pair, Max is positive that he’ll talk to her at the party because the number 13 is lucky isn’t it?
Ashley is a great friend. Cool, calm, and collected. Best friend to Morrigan, Ashley’s there to pick up the mess, but at this party Ashley’s hoping to wipe the distance between her and Beckett.
Tom Leveen really should have stopped at Beckett. I only liked about 3-4 of the characters and found only about half of them memorable. Some of the POVs I find to be really useless. There was also one character, Morrigan, who I really just hated throughout all 11 POVs.
To me, The Party is like a classic novel. You know you should really like it because it covers themes and real life situations so emotionally and vividly, but you’re just struggling to make it through. I’m on the middle when it comes to this book; I know I should like, I kind of do like it, but then again I really did not like some of it.
The novel starts off extremely strong, falters, declines, gets a kick-start, hits a nose dive, and then steadies out. The novel ends with an uplifting tone, however, so readers will get that happily ever after.
December 25, 2019
I am a huge fan Tom's writing style. He has the ability to make me feel something for each of his characters, even if it is they are annoying as hell, or bitchy. His ability to convey the view points, and personalities of multiple people in one book is rather amazing. He uses believable real world characters that have real world problems. He did a great job conveying the typical teenage bullshit that plagued us all during that time.
June 18, 2015
There’s a party tonight at a house near the beach, and everyone will be going. Everyone for a different reason—to hook up, to confront an ex, to make a friend, to say goodbye. Eleven people in particular will have a night that will change their lives forever. As each character shares their story—their view of the world, their perception of what happened during and leading up to the beach party—they will interact, reconnect, collide, and combine in ways no one saw coming.
I was hooked to Tom Leveen’s Party from the very first page. Each character’s powerful and unique voice shines through on each page, making for an entertaining and captivating read. The book itself is literary genius and brilliantly written, since there are eleven chapters and eleven characters—one chapter from each character’s point of view. It sounds like it wouldn’t work, like we wouldn’t have time to connect with each character on a personal level, but Tom Leveen pulls it off with eleven powerful voices that are distinct to each character. Each character’s way of viewing the word is different, from their values and assumptions to their grammar and the way they speak. Early on, I did get a little bit lost in all the characters and their unique relationships to each other, but the voice kept me hooked and I was able to continue reading until I understood all the connections. I was also pleased by the diversity of characters and the way different issues of religion, racism, and sex were honestly explored through different viewpoints. The way Leveen wove the viewpoints together, at times overlapping, at times skipping ahead or behind, was smoothly accomplished, resulting in well-rounded characters and believable character arcs. Overall, I would recommend Party to anyone, especially writers since it’s such a great experiment in voice and POV.
I was hooked to Tom Leveen’s Party from the very first page. Each character’s powerful and unique voice shines through on each page, making for an entertaining and captivating read. The book itself is literary genius and brilliantly written, since there are eleven chapters and eleven characters—one chapter from each character’s point of view. It sounds like it wouldn’t work, like we wouldn’t have time to connect with each character on a personal level, but Tom Leveen pulls it off with eleven powerful voices that are distinct to each character. Each character’s way of viewing the word is different, from their values and assumptions to their grammar and the way they speak. Early on, I did get a little bit lost in all the characters and their unique relationships to each other, but the voice kept me hooked and I was able to continue reading until I understood all the connections. I was also pleased by the diversity of characters and the way different issues of religion, racism, and sex were honestly explored through different viewpoints. The way Leveen wove the viewpoints together, at times overlapping, at times skipping ahead or behind, was smoothly accomplished, resulting in well-rounded characters and believable character arcs. Overall, I would recommend Party to anyone, especially writers since it’s such a great experiment in voice and POV.
June 4, 2012
High School Parties-----
How does one get invited? For those of you who are regrettably and "accidentally" left out or to those of you that pretend not to care about attending----you may be surprised at the guest list!
The "GUEST LIST" has a fair share of kids that are invisible to others on so many levels for so many reasons.
Party guest 1: The kid that attends a party hoping that someone, anyone will recognize who they are. This kid is emotionally bullied by their fellow classmates---invisible to the naked eye.
Party guest 2: The kid that attends a party because he or she is invisible to their own parents----another piece of furniture to walk around, a trophy on the wall, never dusted, never handled, never admired by the ones that should love them the most. This kid is begging for parental boundaries.
Party guests 3 and 4: These kids are on a mission to get hooked up for the night only or searching for that one true love.
Party guest 5: The kid that attends the party hoping to find an even playing field excluded of inhibitions, prejudices, and stereotypes. Before the sun comes up, maybe acceptance will rise with the rooster.
BUT these are my words-----Below, Tom Leveen sums it up perfectly-----
Party guests that attend the party hoping to "confront my ex, to hook up (since that is what everyone expects), to make a friend . . . any friend, to numb the pain, to finally talk to her, to piss off my parents, to say good-bye."----Tom Leveen
How does one get invited? For those of you who are regrettably and "accidentally" left out or to those of you that pretend not to care about attending----you may be surprised at the guest list!
The "GUEST LIST" has a fair share of kids that are invisible to others on so many levels for so many reasons.
Party guest 1: The kid that attends a party hoping that someone, anyone will recognize who they are. This kid is emotionally bullied by their fellow classmates---invisible to the naked eye.
Party guest 2: The kid that attends a party because he or she is invisible to their own parents----another piece of furniture to walk around, a trophy on the wall, never dusted, never handled, never admired by the ones that should love them the most. This kid is begging for parental boundaries.
Party guests 3 and 4: These kids are on a mission to get hooked up for the night only or searching for that one true love.
Party guest 5: The kid that attends the party hoping to find an even playing field excluded of inhibitions, prejudices, and stereotypes. Before the sun comes up, maybe acceptance will rise with the rooster.
BUT these are my words-----Below, Tom Leveen sums it up perfectly-----
Party guests that attend the party hoping to "confront my ex, to hook up (since that is what everyone expects), to make a friend . . . any friend, to numb the pain, to finally talk to her, to piss off my parents, to say good-bye."----Tom Leveen
November 15, 2012
Reviewed by Jaglvr for TeensReadToo.com
PARTY is a novel told in 11 different voices. Each chapter is a different viewpoint of a night unfolding.
The story starts out with Beckett. She is a girl who has withdrawn from everyone and thinks that she is invisible. She talks herself into going to the graduation party of the year, even though she's only going to be a senior at Santa Barbara High.
As the story unfolds, we meet a girl-gone-wild trying to get the attention of her parents. We meet her ex-boyfriend, who got dumped because he wouldn't have sex with her. We meet a boy who had a bright future in football but lost his desire to play. There is also a boy who has to deal with racial prejudice. And then there is the girl who holds it all together.
PARTY's writing style is reminiscent of Paul Ruditis' RAINBOW PARTY; however, the themes are far different. PARTY slowly reveals the different connections of the characters. As the night plays out, secrets are revealed, friendships are formed, lots of alcohol is consumed, and a fight brings it all to a head.
I found the first couple of chapters slow going. But eventually, the characters start to become interconnected and the action picks up. Some characters are far easier to like than others, but by the end I found myself changing my mind about more than one of them (in a good way.)
PARTY is a novel told in 11 different voices. Each chapter is a different viewpoint of a night unfolding.
The story starts out with Beckett. She is a girl who has withdrawn from everyone and thinks that she is invisible. She talks herself into going to the graduation party of the year, even though she's only going to be a senior at Santa Barbara High.
As the story unfolds, we meet a girl-gone-wild trying to get the attention of her parents. We meet her ex-boyfriend, who got dumped because he wouldn't have sex with her. We meet a boy who had a bright future in football but lost his desire to play. There is also a boy who has to deal with racial prejudice. And then there is the girl who holds it all together.
PARTY's writing style is reminiscent of Paul Ruditis' RAINBOW PARTY; however, the themes are far different. PARTY slowly reveals the different connections of the characters. As the night plays out, secrets are revealed, friendships are formed, lots of alcohol is consumed, and a fight brings it all to a head.
I found the first couple of chapters slow going. But eventually, the characters start to become interconnected and the action picks up. Some characters are far easier to like than others, but by the end I found myself changing my mind about more than one of them (in a good way.)
July 26, 2022
the potential this book had!! you would not guess it from the cover lol !! each chapter is from a different characters perspective leading up to, during, and after the titled party. It's so neat to see how different characters view and treat each other. the execution, however, failed miserably. the way poc characters were written, the whole conflict, and using "queer" as an insult??? disgusting. also there's this scene where the male characters are joking (kinda?) abt murdering this dude's ex girlfriend and it was so very unsettling to read. men are genuinely so scary I hope to never meet one irl. also another gripe I have ☝️. I will never understand not calling ur friends out on their shitty behavior. you are not a good person if u see ur friends doing shitty things and you don't speak up. like oh he's a good guy but his friends an asshole. NO!!! that is a falsehood. YALLL BOTH SUCKKK!!! anyways... there were some funny moments and the dialogue was good at times??mostly bad but the way the teens would communicate their feelings/problems felt very true to teenagerdom.
September 6, 2017
When people think of books, people usually think of far-off imagination lands and kingdoms, dystopian futures or a story or a whirlwind romance.
Party isn't that, but it sent me reeling in a way that the latter made me feel. it was the normalcy of it all that got to me. The fact that teenage life is strange and confusing, but everyone has their own reasons. Everyone has their own perspective.
And at least we can explore some of them in the exciting, yet somehow mundane setting of a high school party.
Party isn't that, but it sent me reeling in a way that the latter made me feel. it was the normalcy of it all that got to me. The fact that teenage life is strange and confusing, but everyone has their own reasons. Everyone has their own perspective.
And at least we can explore some of them in the exciting, yet somehow mundane setting of a high school party.
May 2, 2018
"Once during a 49ers game, I told my dad I was pregnant just to see what would happen. The truth is, I've never had sex, because my stupid-ass ex-boyfriend got into his wee stupid that it would be wrong for some reason like that's what God says or something. (Pg. 22)
Morrigan feels left out being a virgin and everyone in her school had sex before during the school year. She loves going to Ashley's house because her parents is more caring and make her feel welcome at their home. She also believes Ashley's mom, Diana is a great cook and takes request from her.
Morrigan feels left out being a virgin and everyone in her school had sex before during the school year. She loves going to Ashley's house because her parents is more caring and make her feel welcome at their home. She also believes Ashley's mom, Diana is a great cook and takes request from her.
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