Justin tends to be inside his head.  Not too many people understand him, and fewer try.  He has a few friends who seem to care.  This year it looks like that may change.  Like everything may change.

Dominic is back and living next door.  The past is catching up to both of them as they realize they may have more in common that they thought.  If he can just tell Justin the truth, and hang on to a friendship that could turn into more, this may be their year.

Characters that move me, well more than one per book is rare.  I found I loved both of this couple as it motivated me to read faster and get to the end.  I was pleased that there was romance, charm, and more among the angst.  So many surprises and a worthwhile read.  Hope we revisit this bunch of friends.  I give this a 4/5 Kitty's Paws UP!

***This copy was given in exchange for an honest review.

My favorite stories are the identifiers. Stories that carry a sense of truth that is relatable and raw. Characters that inspire by example and authors who are not afraid to expose their heart even at the worst moments. Across the Horizon is a compilation of fate, love and heartbreak. Martinez peers into an aching heart and a second chance at a surprising time. Emotion leaps off the page and pulls at your heart. Rita and Tanner are a match made in heartache, but healed by love.

La Madre Goose by Susan Middleton Elya is a retelling of several famous nursery rhymes. I adore this author because she incorporates Spanish vocabulary words into the text. The book also has a glossary at the front of the book in case the reader does not know a word. The reason I would love to use this book in my classroom is that it would serve a dual purpose. Students who are transitioning from speaking only English to being bilingual will benefit from having a book like this to read. All students in the classroom who are interested in learning about another language will have the option of adding vocabulary words from another language to their vocabulary. 

Lexile: AD490L