As adults we see it all the time, a child dies far too early.  Grief for us is not the same as for a child.  Having read obituaries of children dying young, Vivian Vande Velde broaches a topic that many probably think about, but never come right out and say.  If you died tomorrow, how would you be remembered? 

REMEMBERING RAQUEL is geared for ages twelve and up, suitably so, as the heroine in the book, if you can call her a true "heroine," is not quite fifteen.  Raquel is a forgettable girl, she's not skinny or pretty enough to fit in with the "in-crowd," so she trudges along in the high school setting.  Her best friend in the world had to go to a different high school, so Raquel is starting over with few friends in a tough setting.  After a particularly bad day, Raquel posts to her blog and then heads out to a late movie without her friend who fears she couldn't get a ride from her parents. 

Tragedy strikes when Raquel is hit by a car coming out of the movies.  What transpires is a series of essays written by Raquel's friends, peers, teachers, relatives, and even the driver who hit her.  Each person is reflecting upon their relationship with Raquel--good or bad.  It's poignant, funny, and touching.  Vivian Vande Velde tries something new in REMEMBERING RAQUEL and hits a homerun in the process! 

For me, REMEMBERING RAQUEL was a very quick read.  It is the perfect length for 'tweens and teens and the narrative flows smoothly from one character's thoughts to another's.  I know this book will have incredible appeal; my own daughter has already taken off with it for her mandatory silent reading during school.  All in all, it's a superior book that does leave you wondering about your own relationships and how you've treated those around you.