Book Review: Diva by Alex Flinn

Title: Diva
Author: Alex Flinn
Paperback 274 pages
Published September 21st 2006

Caitlin McCourt knew what she wants and she intends to get it – even if her mom doesn’t agree to it. Caitlin loves singing, especially the Opera and she will do everything to be enter Miami High School of the Arts.

She actually used to be fat – really fat – but she went on a fat camp and shed at least 35 pounds. Then she became a pretty blond girl and eventually got a boyfriend. Too late when she realized, his boyfriend was from Hell.

Nick may have been wickedly hot, has nice car, brought flowers occasionally and even writes poetry. But beneath those façade, Nick actually hit Caitlin, he says her singing is stupid and no one ever wants to be friends with her except him.

Caitlin met new friends, Sean & Gigi and they are supportive of her because they believe in her. But her mom doesn’t think she’s good enough. Her mom is a little oddball – she chooses to dress like a teen-ager, way slicker and shorter than Caitlin’s clothes, much to her daughter’s dismay. Next thing she knew, her mom started dating another man, who was not only balding, he is also married to another woman. Caitlin doesn’t know anymore how to deal with her life.

I admire Caitlin for her perseverance to go for that something that she aspires to be. True, a lot of girls prefer to call themselves Diva but they do not know the extent of the word. As much as possible, Caitlin, a product of broken family – doesn’t want to ask for anyone’s help if she can manage herself.

With her father refusing to give alimony or child support, and her mom trying to get hitched with every man with lots of penny, and with an ex-boyfriend who used to beat her up, Caitlin’s dream of being an opera singer is the one that burns the flame in her heart.

I also like Sean’s character – helpful and down-to-earth, but I was a little dismayed when I learned about his true preference. I thought Caitlin & Sean look good together, but then, I'm wrong. And her best friend Gigi, is the wind beneath her wings, however eccentric she seems to be.

Overall, I give props to Alex Flinn for this fine work of art, venturing to something more mature than in her usual fantasy books. I am yet to read Breathing Underwater, the story of how Caitlin’s ex - Nick became angst-ridden and girl friend beater. Looking forward to reading it soon!

My rating for Diva – 4 bookmarks!