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43 pages 1 hour read

Looking for JJ

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2004

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Book Brief

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Anne Cassidy

Looking for JJ

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2004
Book Details
Pages

332

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • Contemporary

Publication Year

2004

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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Super Short Summary

Looking for JJ by Anne Cassidy is a young adult thriller that follows British teen Alice Tully as she attempts to lead a new life under a changed identity after serving time for a crime she committed as a child, revealing themes of guilt, justice, and forgiveness, while her past increasingly threatens to resurface. Contains sensitive topics including child murder and exploitation.

Mysterious

Dark

Emotional

Suspenseful

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

3.7

6,654 ratings

61%

Loved it

29%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Anne Cassidy's Looking for JJ offers a compelling exploration of guilt and identity through the story of Jennifer Jones, a child who killed another child. Many reviews commend its psychological depth and nuanced character development. However, some critique the pacing and find certain plot twists predictable. Overall, it's a thought-provoking read on redemption and societal judgment.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Looking for JJ?

Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers and young adult fiction will be captivated by Looking for JJ. Fans of Jay Asher's Thirteen Reasons Why and Laurie Halse Anderson's Speak will find similar themes of trauma, identity, and redemption in this suspenseful, thought-provoking novel.

3.7

6,654 ratings

61%

Loved it

29%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Character List

Jennifer Jones/Alice Tully/Kate Rickman

A young woman with a troubled past who tries to navigate her new life while wrestling with her uncertain identity and the impact of her childhood actions.

Jennifer’s mother, who became pregnant at a young age and struggles to balance her career and responsibilities, often neglecting Jennifer in favor of seeking fame and money.

Alice’s foster mother, who provides the warmth and care Alice lacked in her early life, offering stability and support in her new environment.

Alice’s boyfriend and a university student, initially presented as aggressive but is eventually shown to be immature yet genuinely caring.

Jennifer's childhood best friend, known for her bossy demeanor, whose relationship with Jennifer profoundly affects the story.

A neighborhood girl who becomes friends with Jennifer and occasionally stays with Michelle, shy by nature and younger than Jennifer and her friends.

A schoolmate of Jennifer, briefly befriends Michelle, and becomes involved in an altercation that significantly impacts Jennifer’s childhood.

A photographer associated with Carol, characterized by his sneaky and untrustworthy nature, involved in inappropriate activities alongside Jennifer’s mother.

An investigative journalist who befriends Alice under the guise of a neighbor and teacher, attempting to write a story while maintaining Alice's anonymity.

Book Details
Pages

332

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • Contemporary

Publication Year

2004

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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