Book Review: Skid by Doug Solter

Book Title: Skid

Author: Doug Solter

Britni's Blog Score: 8 racecars out of 10

Britni's Blog Rating: Recommended for teenage readers.

I recently reread what has become one of my favorite books, Skid by Doug Solter. This book was so much fun to read and it's also been a big inspiration to my own writing, as well. Therefore, I decided to write a review so I could share this book with other people.

The Plot. Seventeen-year-old Samantha Sutton is a racecar driver. Though she may not fit in with the other girls at her school or have a boyfriend or be totally into beauty, she shines when she's behind the wheel. When she's presented with the opportunity to become a test driver for a Formula 1 racing team, she jumps in with both feet, sending her reeling into a new world of expensive food, unexpected fame, and opportunities that she's only ever imagined--and that her father had imagined for her. Samantha is put to the test against family drama, racing gods, complicated romance, and her own dark secret. Will she be able to bring balance to her life and reach her ultimate goals?

The Cast.  I love how relatable and likable Solter has made his leading lady. Even though she's going through extraordinary circumstances, she's still just a teenage girl, and she's still like all of us young women who have a dream to chase. Even though she has her fair amount of flaws and failures, she fights her way through them, emerging strong and confident.

I liked the romance between her and love interest Manny, a sweet guy who cares for and respects Samantha in a way that she's never had. The family relationships in this book do take a backseat to a lot of the other action, but those too are full of tension and emotion.

There are no cardboard cutout people here. I was impressed with how Solter gave so much life to everyone on the pages. Each person in this book is an individual, which says a lot about Solter's writing ability. Manny's ex Hannah, Sarah Wolert, and Samantha's father. None of these people are ever seen in the flesh, and yet their stories are interesting, memorable. Emilio, in particular is a character I enjoyed reading. He's a formidable opponent with as much dedication as Samantha. Only he has no problem playing dirty when there's a trophy and a title at stake. He makes an intriguing antagonist for Samantha to go up against in the climax.

The Message. Doug Solter's book contains an empowering message that isn't just for young girls and women. Samantha, though facing odds stacked against her, faces challenge after challenge with daring and dedication. She doesn't let her mother's lack of approval keep her from moving to Germany, she doesn't let the racing world's sexist attitude keep her from racing, and she doesn't let her worst fear or her strongest opponent keep her from gunning for the championship.

We can all learn a little something from Samantha and her willingness to put it all on the line to reach her dreams. 

My Recommendation. The only reason that I recommend this book for teenagers and not for younger kids is because Skid touches on several mature and/or controversial topics such as homosexuality, drugs, and rape. I will say that none of these is presented in a particularly objectionable or offensive way (rape--or sex of any kind--is never seen), but some teen's parents may want to be careful. 

My Notes. The detailed imagery in Solter's book is amazing. The world of Skid came alive for me. As Samantha explored the globe in the name of racing, I traveled with her and took in the sights. Locations as well as people became characters. Racetracks are described in so much detail that I could see Samantha roaring through them, taking turn after turn, weaving her way between other drivers. I know nothing about Formula 1 or Nascar or cars in general, but Solter's use of racing jargon drew me into the story and made everything even more vivid. I was completely wrapped up in every moment, whether Samantha was on the track or off.

In Conclusion. This story is enrapturing, well written, and so very real. The views of the city are almost as breathtaking as the whiplash-inducing scenes told from within the racecar. Samantha Sutton is just an everyday teenage girl with an incredible opportunity and the courage to fight for her dreams. She's willing to put everything on the line and face impossible odds to achieve victory.

I loved how Solter brought each character to life for me. The cast is full of memorable characters, both good and bad. 

I loved this book and I highly recommend it. Since I bought it off of Amazon last October, I've already read it twice and I'll go back and read it again. This story of passion and determination will never get old. I'm looking forward to reading the second book, Rivals, which is available now. If what I've read is true, there will also be a third book to the Skid series. I'll add it to my reading list as soon as it comes out.