Skip to main content

Editorial Content for All The Major Constellations

Reviewer (text)

Ariel G., Teen Board member

A genuine journey of discovery, ALL THE MAJOR CONSTELLATIONS by Pratima Cranse is told from the protagonist’s, Andrew’s, point of view. Caught in between the neglect of his parents, the abuse of his brother, the responsibility of his job, and a drunk driver’s reckless choice, is Laura Lettel, a strikingly beautiful girl from school who Andrew becomes infatuated with. Yet, as he knows Laura is a devout fundamental Christian, Andrew is apprehensive when she approaches him about his difficult home situation. Ultimately, he succumbs to his feelings and becomes part of her group, which results in a series of unexpected surprises.

In all, Cranse’s compelling debut novel exemplifies how people think and feel when they’re struggling to figure out who they are and are contemplating the meanings of life and faith. ALL THE MAJOR CONSTELLATIONS isn’t afraid to point out a multitude of gripping issues that are hard to talk about, and it introduces sets of contrasting ideas in an innovative way. For example, religion and sexuality don’t necessarily seem appropriate together, but ALL THE MAJOR CONSTELLATIONS makes them almost seem like friends.

Cranse’s compelling debut novel… isn’t afraid to point out a multitude of gripping issues that are hard to talk about.

I was especially impressed with Cranse’s writing. She incorporates a lot of descriptive scenery and realistic imagery that reflects her Vermont childhood, and her writing style embodies her characters (provocative, daring, funny, smart and heartbreaking).

Even though much of ALL THE MAJOR CONSTELLATIONS is filled with profanities and vulgar slurs, there is still a lot to enjoy from it. For those who like to see dynamic changes in characters or situations, a fast-pace story with a lot of action and friendship being a huge focal point, this story might just be for you. 

Teaser

 

Andrew is leaving high school behind and looking ahead to a fresh start at college and distance from his not-so-secret infatuation: Laura Lettel. But when a terrible accident leaves him without the companionship of his two best friends, Andrew is cast adrift and alone --- until Laura unexpectedly offers him comfort, friendship and the support of a youth group of true believers, fundamentalist Christians with problems and secrets of their own.

Promo

Andrew is leaving high school behind and looking ahead to a fresh start at college and distance from his not-so-secret infatuation: Laura Lettel. But when a terrible accident leaves him without the companionship of his two best friends, Andrew is cast adrift and alone --- until Laura unexpectedly offers him comfort, friendship and the support of a youth group of true believers, fundamentalist Christians with problems and secrets of their own.

About the Book

When you’re about to face the world, who do you turn to? 
 
Andrew is leaving high school behind and looking ahead to a fresh start at college and distance from his not-so-secret infatuation: Laura Lettel. But when a terrible accident leaves him without the companionship of his two best friends, Andrew is cast adrift and alone --- until Laura unexpectedly offers him comfort, friendship and the support of a youth group of true believers, fundamentalist Christians with problems and secrets of their own. Andrew is curiously drawn to their consuming beliefs, but why? Is it only to get closer to Laura? And is Laura genuinely interested in Andrew, or is she just trying to convert him?
 
This provocative and compelling debut novel will resonate deeply with readers as it explores questions of identity, sexuality and spirituality.