This debut novel is a story of loss, love, and friendship, about a teenager coming to terms with the past and dealing with repressed memories that are resurfacing...Readers will find Otis relatable and endearing in his first-person perspective of first love and heartbreak, as well as his unwavering loyalty to his friends. Meg and Dara round out a cast of ... Read morewell-developed characters who have extensive troubles of their own. Most teenagers will find a little bit of themselves in this well-executed work; a must-have for most YA collections.
School Library Journal (starred reviews)
The inability to let go of the past pushes all three white teens beyond their comfort zones into uncharted territory, Garner slowly and steadily guiding readers through these journeys. A heavy read weighted by intense emotions and grief, the novel sifts through tough memories, searching for the silver lining.
Kirkus Reviews
Otis' journey-as a competitive swimmer and as a grieving brother-is a poignant one...It's tough-talking, reckless Dara who will intrigue readers. Her struggles with her father, her sexuality, and the dreams deferred because of her accident complement Otis' story, elevating this to a narrative as much about human connection as it is about sports.
Booklist
Garner's debut sensitively portrays Meg and Otis's bruised emotions, both recovering from deep loss. Though the description of Mason's accident is a gut-punch in its realism, much of the plot unfolds predictably. The novel's strongest moments go to Dara, whose no-holds-barred personality- she was the human equivalent of a Venus flytrap -livens and complicates the novel.
Publishers Weekly
The nuanced way that Garner deals with loss is not only beautifully done, but it's thoughtful and insightful. Phantom Limbs is a quietly affecting, well-written gem of a book that will resonate with readers, long after the last page has been reached. A definite YA standout for 2016.
Romantic Times
Acquisition noted
Publishers Lunch
Cover reveal feature
YA Books Central (blog)
Featured/recommended as part of librarian preview
School Library Journal
Paula Garner mentioned in feature on Candlewick's BEA party
PW ShelfTalker
Featured/recommended in cover reveal
YA Books Central
Featured/recommended in list of 22 of Our Most Anticipated Contemporary YAs of the Second Half of 2016
B&N Teen Blog
Featured/recommended
Fiction Fare (blog)
Dazzling. Brimming with truth and beauty.
Jeff Zentner, author of The Serpent King
Otis is an immensely likeable narrator, dealing with both love and loss but still capable of noting cringeworthy adolescent moments [...]
Irish Times Weekend
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