Griffin, A. (2014). The Unfinished Life of Addison Stone. Soho Teen.

YA / Mystery / Realistic Fiction

I gave this book 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Realistic fiction non-fiction. Can a book be categorized that way? With this book, yes. I had to keep reminding myself that Addison Stone was not a real person, despite the interviews and photo documentary of her short, colorful, brilliant, tragic life. This was such a unique approach that I am sure will be mimicked across YA. As the author defines The Unfinished Life of Addison Stone, "It is a novel posing as a memoir," and in it are photographs and selfies of Addison and even some of Addison's sketches and art work, all which make Addison a very real person.

Griffin manages to weave an intricate story with a cast of thousands, it seems, that absolutely works. The answer everyone wants to know is how Addison died. (That she dies is not a spoiler). It is clear Addison is the real deal, talent-wise, and it is also clear that she suffered from mental illness. As such, the presence of the spirit of a long dead artist must be part of Addison's psychosis -- or is it?

Readers will have to decide for themselves how Addison died, and it is worth the time spent information gathering. I recommend it for ages 16 and up. There are lots of situations of minors in adult situations, sex (not detailed), drug use, underage drinking, and profanity. All of it was fitting, as Addison was leading a life she was too young to live.

Thank you to Soho Press and Edelweiss for providing me a free ARC in exchange for my honest review -- the only kind I give.