Golden - Jessi Kirby
Golden follows Parker, the picture perfect high school girl, Valedictorian, on her way to a scholarship for college. But when she read a journal of a former student, Parker takes a different path, and that is where her journey begins.

The characters are so well developed. Parker is a intelligent girl, a teacher assistant, and just an all around good girl, who want to do something unexpected and maybe a little out of character before she graduates. Parker has one overbearing mother, I mean I understand wanting our children to succeed and do their bests, but wow she was certainly a pushy one and has a tremendous influence on Parker and her decision. Her best friend Kat was best friends are supposed to be, roots for you and stands by you no matter what and tells you like it is when it is needed. That’s Kat.. There of course is a little romance along the way, Trevor. They guy she’s grown up with, and has just always been around, he’s sweet and does seem to care for Parker.

The whole idea behind the high school students writing a journal and ten years later reading what was written, is a a fantastic idea. How could Parker not be drawn to Juliette’s life and death? Juliette was the golden girl, her and Shane were the golden couple and their sudden deaths rocked this small town. The mystery of what happened that night is something that Parker wanted learn about, and got a journey of a life time instead. There are two stories going on, Parker’s journey surrounding Juliette’s journal and the truth behind it, and Parker’s growth, independence and self discovery along the way, and they intertwine very well.

Golden is a beautiful story of learning what is important, love and living life and learning along the way. It is a story not be missed.