It's Not About Me by Michelle Sutton

The Bottom Line

It's Not About Me is Michelle Sutton's debut novel, and if it's anything to go on, her books will become must-reads in our house.

Michelle is among a growing group of authors who describe their writing as edgy. They push the envelope and deal with topics most of us don’t want to think about. This particular book deals with pre-marital sex, assault, alcohol and teenage pregnancy, but not in a gratuitous way. Rather, it identifies with these issues and handles them in a way which glorifies God.

Pros

• Interesting reading.
• Deals with difficult subjects in a sensitive manner.
• Had me turning pages to find out what would happen.

Cons

• Edgy content may make some readers uncomfortable.

Description

• Genre: Young Adult
• Release Date: September 2008
• Author: Michelle Sutton
• Publisher: Sheaf House
• ISBN: 9780979748516
• Format: Paperback, 352 Pages

The story centers on Annie Myers, prom queen and church soloist. She also happens to be head-over-heels in love with Tony, the pastor's son.

Everything between Annie and Tony is wonderful, or at least it was. Lately, Tony’s been acting weird. He takes every opportunity to try and pressure Annie into doing things she’s not ready for. Tony is a master at getting his own way; he even manages to persuade her to get engaged. But deep down, Annie’s not sure. If Tony really loved her, would he pressure her so much? Wouldn't he want to wait as well?

Then the unthinkable happens, Annie is attacked while alone at church. She suffers devastating injuries to her face and neck. Tony who is racked with guilt and unable to bear seeing her, turns to alcohol for comfort.

His older brother, Dan, becomes Annie’s confidante and cheer squad while she’s recuperating. When Tony finds out, the brothers fight and a family is ripped apart.

Torn between her love for Tony and growing fondness for his brother, Annie realizes she hasn't sought advice from the one who really matters, God. Her decision isn't made any easier when her friend, Susie, starts throwing allegations at both brothers—allegations which may have Annie attending a shotgun wedding.

It's Not About Me comes with a discussion guide which youth leaders and parents could quite easily incorporate into a discussion group without sounding preachy or conveying an "I told you so" message.

Because of its wider application and skillful approach to relevant topics, I definitely give It's Not About Me four stars. Well done.