Review: The Mark by Jen Nadol

Title: The Mark
By: Jen Nadol
Reading Level: Young Adult
Review Book from Bloomsbury Books
Date of Release: January 19th, 2010
BookWhisperer Rating:


Book Description:
Sixteen-year old Cassie Renfield has seen the mark since forever: a glow around certain people as if a candle were held behind their back.

The one time she pointed it out taught her not to do it again, so Cassie has kept quiet, considering its rare appearances odd, but insignificant. Until the day she watches a man die. Mining her memories, Cassie realizes she can see a person's imminent death. Not how or where, only when: today.

Cassie searches her past, her philosophy lessons, even her new boyfriend for answers, always careful to hide her secret. How does the mark work? Why her?

Most importantly, if you know today is someone's last, should you tell?

What would you do if you had that ability to know when someone's life would end? Would you feel responsible to tell them, or would you feel it is better to not tell someone that their life could be ending? Cassandra is a very unqiue girl with the ability to determine when ones life will be ending. Although, she finds herself struggling with what responsibility she holds with such a gift or curse? Cassandra is very philosophical, and I found this to be a very intrigueing concept in this story. Philosophy runs throughout the story adding a very intellectual feel to this book. Cassandra appears to be a very well round character that was entertaining to follow. Although, I was not very impressed by the other characters of this book. Lucas was intended to begin a likeable character that turns unattractive, but I felt that this character was shady from square one. I was not impressed by the character or the turn out of his personality. I also was a slightly discouraged that the picture perfect image of Nan was blemished in the end. I understand making choices trying to protect your family, but I was altogether impressed by the turn out. This is a simple and entertaining read with highlights, but ultimately I feel that it had room for improvment.