Auracle

Gr 10 Up—Anna has an unusual talent-she can pop out of her body to explore the world and the universe whenever she gets bored or needs to escape. Her best friend, Rei, is the only one who knows about her ability, and he doesn't approve. He's afraid she'll get sucked into a black hole, or that something will happen to her body while she's not inside. Anna has always thought Rei was just a worrier…until something bad happens. Taylor Gleason, the meanest popular girl in their high school, in an attempt to seduce Anna and Rei's friend Seth, blackmails him into meeting her at the local waterfalls. When they argue, she slips and plunges over the falls to her death. Only Anna, who astrally projected to watch over Seth, witnesses what happens. And while she stays with him in spirit, Taylor's soul finds Anna's unoccupied body and decides to take up residence. Now Taylor, in Anna's shell, is accusing Seth of her murder. Anna has to find a way to get her body back and clear Seth's name. Fortunately, she still has Rei on her side. Rosati's first novel has an original premise and an intriguing plot despite early flaws. The exposition in the beginning chapters pulls readers out of the story-and away from essential character development-and into a more academic mindset. However, once past these explanations of astral projection, reiki, and interconnections of matter, energy, religion, etc., a well-crafted and exciting novel emerges. Teens who enjoy more complex plotlines and are tired of the usual fare should enjoy this new approach to paranormal fiction.—Heather E. Miller Cover, Homewood Public Library, AL