From School Library Journal
Adult/High School–Four different people find themselves on the same roof on New Year's Eve, but they have one thing in common–they're all there to jump to their deaths. A scandal-plagued talk-show host, a single mom of a disabled young man, a troubled teen, and an aging American musician soon unite in a common cause, to find out why Jess (the teen) can't get her ex-boyfriend to return her calls. Down the stairs they go, and thoughts of suicide gradually subside. It all sounds so high concept, but each strand of the plot draws readers into Hornby's web. The novel is so simply written that its depths don't come to full view until well into the reading. Each character takes a turn telling the story in a distinctive voice. Tough questions are asked–why do you want to kill yourself, and why didn't you do it? Are adults any smarter than adolescents? What defines friends and family? Characters are alternately sympathetic and utterly despicable, talk-show-host Martin, particularly. The narrators are occasionally unreliable, with the truth coming from the observers instead. Obviously, a book about suicide is a dark read, but this one is darkly humorous–as Hornby usually is. Teens will identify with or loathe Jess and musician J. J., but they will also find themselves in the shoes of Maureen and Martin. This somewhat philosophical work will appeal to Hornby's fans but has plenty to attract new audiences as well.–

Nothing I would have picked up if I had not known Nick Hornby from "About a boy" or taking part in an audiobook ring. But it was well worth reading. Very subtle thoughts about life in general and how people cope with it. I enjoyed it very much and hope everyone will give this a chance. It's not too long.

available for trade.

reserved for a rabck surprise to LyekkaMarengo
will be traveling to the USA soon.

RELEASE NOTES:

Enjoy your trip, book!!

What a nice surprise to find in my mailbox. I''m always touched by the generous nature of bookcrossers. Thanks so much. I''ve never read any Hornby but have heard good things about him.

Thanks again.

Finally got to this one over the week-end. It was a very thought provoking book but I have to admit I was ready to smack Jess in the head more than once. It's hard for me to be sympathic to a snotty, brat that has everything character but in the end everything turned out. Not, mind you that it was an entirely happy ending but very satisfying in that it was also very believable. It made you think about the very ordinaryness of life and how extradinary it is. Well worth the read and I'll definately find more of Hornby now.

Lent this to my sister who just got it back to me. I'm going to put it out on the bookshelf at work but it may still be available, just PM me and I'll check.

Offering this to Audrey for the House of Care in State College, PA to do with as she sees fit.