Sadie by Courtney Summers
Review by Joanna S., Youth Reviewer
“Sadie” by Courtney Summers is a very fresh and exciting take on a mystery novel. We are introduced to the main character, Sadie, through podcast host West McCray. West is the host of a podcast called The Girls, in which he aims to uncover hidden truths and missed details about the disappearance of Sadie Hunter, a young girl who set out to hunt her sister’s killer and has not yet returned. The novel is told in a mix of podcast transcripts and Sadie’s first-hand experiences. The format and the experience were gripping, chilling, and refreshing.
Sometimes I find myself in what I call a reading slump. The best way I can describe it is as a period where books aren’t exactly the most appealing things. I believe it takes very special books to get oneself out of this state and be reminded of the enjoyment that books can truly provide. After a long reading slump, “Sadie” was just that for me. The podcast format is what initially drew me in. I absolutely love podcasts, especially those related to true crime. For me to be able to experience two things I enjoy (books and podcasts) in one, I had very high hopes. Long story short, “Sadie” did not disappoint. There were times when I couldn’t put the book down because I desperately needed to know what would happen next and if Sadie was okay. The podcast format made it even more real to me as I truly felt like I was being told Sadie’s story. I truly enjoyed this book, and I believe that anyone who picks it up would feel the same. I have heard great things about the audiobook and would love to do a reread in that format. Definitely recommend.
Find Sadie at Kitchener Public Library!