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Amy and Roger’s Epic Detour | September 2, 2015

by Morgan Matson (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, May 2011)

After Amy’s dad dies in a car accident, her mom decides that their family needs a fresh start. She moves to Connecticut a month before Amy finishes her junior year, leaving Amy alone in their house in California. Since the accident, Amy hasn’t been able to get behind the wheel, creating a problem when her mom needs her to drive the family car to Connecticut. Enter Roger, Amy’s former neighbor who she hasn’t seen in years, and willing chauffer. The itinerary carefully planned by Amy’s mom is quickly left by the side of the road when Amy and Roger decide to take a detour, winding their way across the country in a true road trip. Between fast food stops and playlists (included in the novel along with a travel scrapbook, postcards, and pictures), Amy begins to come to terms with her father’s death, rebuild her relationship with her brother and mother, and recognize a growing crush on Roger—who happens to be grappling with a broken heart. Filled with a memorable supporting cast, Amy and Roger’s Epic Detour has a slow build that will leave readers clamoring for more. Even those who hate long road trips will be inspired to hop in a car with a friend and see where a map takes them.


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