The Opposite of Everyone by Joshilyn Jackson

Lynnie     
Amy        

contemporary fiction

The Opposite of Everyone revolves around Paula/Kali- a badass divorce lawyer who has overcome her complicated and often difficult childhood to create a successful life for herself. Estranged from her mother, Kai, Paula's world gets turned upside down when she gets a cryptic note from Kai that reopens old wounds and festers with new secrets to be discovered. Jumping back and forth between her childhood and the present, the story weaves itself seamlessly, revealing just enough information to propel the story and point you forward.

Lynnie's Review

It's been a while since I've read a Joshilyn Jackson book (2011!) and I have no idea why because I really enjoy her writing. Her characters have a way of endearing themselves as their circumstances and stories weave their way through your mind. The Opposite of Everyone is no different and may be my favorite book of hers yet (though Between, Georgia is right up there).

There are a few things in the book that made me roll my eyes, but overall I adored Paula and the other characters more than those moments.  I definitely recommend this book, especially to take along on a nice vacation. 

Amy's Review

This story was unique, engaging, and authentic. I really enjoyed it! It had several layers which I always enjoy in a well-crafted novel like this. As with Joshilyn Jackson’s other novel I read, her characters are fun and lovable. This one didn’t have as much humor as the other but the tone was perfect. I cared about the characters and wanted to know how things would turn out. I wonder if Jackson is an artist because both novels I’ve read have had a character that is a terrific artist.  This is also the second story centered on a broken family with largely absent parents. And the second story tackling some racial issues. However, the tales are very different.

Joshilyn Jackson is one of the best author narrators I’ve heard.  In fact, she might be the best—even better than my other favorite, Neil Gaiman.  She has a variety of voices and accents, her voice acting is perfect (of course, she should know how to interpret her characters better than anyone), and her pacing is great.  A+ all the way!