The Book of Essie

The Book of Essie by Meghan MacLean Weir

The Book of Essie is the debut novel for Meghan MacLean Weir. The story is based on a teenage girl’s life. The girl has been part of a reality TV series her entire life, as her parents showcase their ultra conservative Christian lifestyle and an abundance of kids. As the story moves along we discover that all that is shown on the screen isn’t the case for Essie. When Essie ends up pregnant the family’s first concern is their image to the public and how to deal with this unplanned pregnancy.  Should they have the baby aborted, pass it off as Essie’s parent’s newest addition or quickly marry Essie off? Will Essie have any say in her future and who is the father of her baby? The turn of events in this book will have wondering right up until the end how things will play out for Essie.

Reviewed by Stephanie Dunn, Zauel Library