Just Fly Away Hardcover – March 28, 2017

I didn’t expect much from this book. I bought it because Andrew McCarthy has been one of my favorite actors for years, and I wanted to support his writing endeavors. I was very pleased by the book and couldn’t put it down! Definitely worth purchasing!

Good story of a young girl learning her father isn't perfect, but finding out no one is and that's okay.

Yes. that Andrew McCarthy. And yes, I bought this book based solely on the fact that it was written by Blaine from Pretty in Pink.Lucy is 15 and has just found out that her father had a one time fling 9 years ago and that she has an 8 year old brother that she's never met. And her world is shattered. How could her dad have an affair? How could he have a son he knew about but didn't know? How could her mom have stayed with him?Lucy doesn't know how to reconcile all of her feelings. She pushes her family away and even though she's never been much of a rebel, she runs away to her estranged grandfather's house. Her dad's dad who she barely knows.It's a sweet coming of age story about accepting and loving your family and yourself even with all of the flaws. It's about how you never really know someone unless they let you. It's about overcoming shame to become your true self.

I read this book with great interest knowing that Mr. McCarthy was an award winning travel writer. I always found his travel pieces captivating. I read this book in 2 days because it was hard for me to put down. I tried to understand Lucy's feelings, as most of the hurt and anger I've experienced were from wives who found out they had a spouse who cheated on them. Honestly, I hope Mr. McCarthy puts out a sequel to this book, as I am curious about Lucy's healing process and the dynamics of her family. If I make it to a book talk, I am definitely going to ask that question. As far as downsides, I think Mr. McCarthy referring to the "shore" as opposed to the beach may have bewildered some people, as "The Shore" is a very regional term for those who live near or in New Jersey (as I do). I certainly enjoyed the book and loved the references to Journey and Bruce Springsteen (as classic rock...am I that old?), especially Journey given their induction into the R&R Hall of Fame.All in all, I enjoyed the book, which allowed me to wonder how I would feel if I were Lucy and if the family secret devastates the family once they were reunited.

I'm of an age when memories of early teen days are somewhat faded. This precious story brings them back & into Lucy's world. I absolutely loved the novel & highly recommend it for teens & adults. We all grow up & find it comforting to read & reminisce. I hope you continue writing Andrew. You have a special gift.

A fun read into the mind of a girl struggling with deceit and betrayal at the hands of the one person idolized. I loved it. It reminded me of myself when I was that age. The confusion, the rebellion, the solitude. Lucy strong willed and passionate looking for the answers that she needed from the one person she loved above all.Andrew is brilliant in they way he brings her to life in my mind. The way she falls for the not so bad boy, her first kiss,the awkward stage. Yes all brought to life with his words. I look forward to reading more of his books.A book that I am proud to have my daughter read.

I bought this book for my niece, but after scanning the first page, I couldn't put it down. Teenage Lucy is spirited, dramatic and full of wry commentary as she navigates the coming to terms with a family secret and her ultimate understanding of the individuals in her life who care deeply for her.All that aside, its perfect for my niece because Just Fly Away is a superbly written, contemporary, coming of age story about a young woman whose attempt to escape her "intolerable life" leads to an adventurous journey of discovery. Bravo!

Always been a fan of his work. Nice to see he is good at writing, too! Will get the autobiography, too.

Love it

i read it in two day. it is a young adult book but it was a fun read. it probably will become a movie.

I loved it great story. Hope he writes more.