Girls Don't Fly by Kristen Chandler

Penguin, 2011. ISBN 9780143566588.
Girl Don't Fly, written by Kristen Chandler, follows the endearing story of a teenager stumbling her way through the realms of self-discovery. Myra, already juggling the crumbling bricks of her family fortress, has her feet fail beneath her and the world seemingly fall out of the sky when her 'prince' dumps her. As the previously steady foundation of her life deteriorates slowly under her, Myra is forced to reconsider her so-called 'doormat' approach to life in order to save herself from falling. Suddenly, like the gulls she so passionately admires, Myra has the overwhelming urge to fly . . . fly as she contends with her ex for a position on an expedition to an island . . . fly recklessly into the arms of the expedition's promoter . . . and, ultimately, fly as the strong, self-respecting woman she longs to become.
Surrounding such a well-intended, kind-hearted main character, this novel immediately draws on the emotions of readers and creates an intimate feel for the audience. Girls Don't Fly harbours a certain down-to-earth nature; all characters and events hold a sense of reality resulting in issues that are easily related to and engaged in. Chandler effectively uses clever metaphors to announce each chapter, introducing humour and charm into the story. Overall, a recommended novel, particularly for middle to late teenagers. Girls Don't Fly explores the evolution of a formerly timid and reliant teen into a thriving independent woman through hectic, dramatic and hilarious high school drama . . . a journey that will stay with me forever!
Emilia Corbo (student)