Going Bovine

While this book may not have fell into my top ten as a reader, I can see its importance in the YA genre. Bray is spot on with her characterization and development not only of the central character Cameron, but the supporting characters as well. Cam is a self described social outcast, young and relevant to the audience, quirky, sarcastic and unreliable. His persona is one that most teenagers can relate to on some level. As his journey continues he becomes a leader, no longer invisible (literally. he is wanted for a $15,000 cash reward), and actually bags the hot chick. At this point in the book, I wanted to throw it down for sticking to the nerd becomes popular schtick, but Bray must have read my mind because he instantly realized it was Dulcie he wanted. Dulcie's character was the most intriguing to me: an angel that breaks all the rules. Just when you think Bray's book is meant to entice the male audience, she brings in a strong female character like her. Bray also does a great job developing Gonzo's character. Who knew the reason behind his paranoia and anger!? WOW! And while Balter's gnome character was a tad strange to me, Bray developed his Norse culture and legend into a central point in the plot. I think overall, Bray sticks to the YA rule of developing a character (or characters) that are relate able, and find themselves amongst the plot.

To say that Going Bovine's plot is imaginative is an understatement. It supersedes time, dimension and space all to keep the audience locked in a psychedelic trip alongside the protagonist. Cameron switches back and forth between reality (the crazy quest he is on) to dreams (him still in the hospital), only to find out the opposite is true. This take on a teen going on a journey is captivating to the YA audience by being both unique and surprising. While it kept me confused at times, I can see how this book won the Printz award.