South Haven is a fairly slow-moving story, but that just makes it more believable. The main character Siddharth, changes significantly over the course of the book, but is still recognizable as the boy at the book's beginning about 4 years earlier. It's a story of growing pains, being the "other," culture clashes and family politics.

The ending, deep-down I knew it was always coming, but it still made for a little shock none-the-less. ( )

South Haven was a quick and compelling read. A really brave and honest story that keeps you engaged. Heartbreaking in parts and very funny in others. Skilled writing and well rounded characters that felt very authentic. I live in New England and felt like the descriptions of the physical environment and the local customs and culture were very apt and beautiful. As someone else said in an earlier review here, could be read and enjoyed by a regular fiction reader or a young person. ( )

This book was just OK. Even on and off good. The problem I had is that I could not find any redeeming qualities in any of the 4 main characters. I don't mind depressing, or books that deal with imperfect characters (those are often the kind I most connect with), it was just that everyone seemed so uncompassionate and downright disrespectful and I just couldn't find anything I could relate to in any one of them. The writing was good, though. Even very captivating at times, but it was sort of on and off for me. I would try another book by this author in the future. ( )

This book was just not for me. I was drawn to the book by the premise, but felt that a good story was just out of reach for some reason. I felt no connection to the main characters. Every time I thought something was developing that would draw me into the story, it was either cut short or went in a completely other direction. ( )

Compelling and believable characters, would make a good movie, works as regular fiction or YA. Loved the cover and the feel of the book, as well. Akashic Books are usually good. I’ve received several from LibraryThing’s Early Reviewer program and was lucky enough to be able to purchase several from their display table at Tucson Festival of Books last year. ( )