Between Two Skies, by Joanne O’Sullivan, is a novel set in Bayou Perdu, a quaint and lively town along the coast of Louisiana. Sixteen-year-old Evangeline Riley, the protagonist, loves taking her boat out and catching fish as the sun rises. However when Hurricane Katrina hits, Evangeline and her family are forced to leave their beloved town and friends, and start over somewhere else. At their new school, Evangeline and her sister are strangers, owning nothing and knowing no one. Despite Bayou Perdu being wiped out of almost all infrastructure, schools, and homes, Evangeline would do anything to return home.

A powerful story of family, love, hope, and belonging, Between Two Skies an amazing read. The author does a good job of portraying Katrina’s destruction and devastation towards towns and citizens that were affected by this disaster. When Evangeline and her family visit what is left of their home, the author describes that there “was an eighteen wheeler with its back wheels in a tree and its front ones on the ground. A school bus like a crumpled soda can.” I was really able to comprehend the extent to which Katrina destroyed everything in its path by descriptions like these. The author mentions the unfortunate impact on families, with many homeless and without jobs. O’Sullivan also depicts the emotions that overtook the Riley family after they lost their home, and were sent to live with cousins. Relationships became tense, and everyone was hopeless and miserable at first. As the healing process began, the family was forced to absorb the reality of what had happened to their cherished town. Through reading the book, I was really able to grasp the massive impacts Hurricane Katrina had on all aspects of society.

Although this novel deals with a lot of heavy and saddening topics, the author shines some light on the characters through their demonstration of hope and positivity. I appreciate how the author connected the importance of family with this tragic situation. Evangeline lived with her grandmother “Mamere” in Bayou Perdu and continues to rely on her for advice and knowledge as she tries to adjust to her new life. I also like that the author demonstrated the importance of organizations and people that help those in need. Evangeline and her family were given free food and supplies to which they were very grateful for. Evangeline also has a special relationship with her counselor, who aids her during these difficult times. I admire Evangeline’s personality, and how she refuses to give up on her town. She was determined to locate all her friends, and ensure they were safe. Just before the hurricane struck, she met a boy named Tru, who she helped rescue when he was stuck in the ocean on his boat. The two become friends, but are separated since everyone was encouraged to evacuate Bayou Perdu. Evangeline discovers that they happen to attend the same school. So on top of her undecided future, homesickness, and family drama, she also must evaluate her feelings for a boy. 

I would rate this book 9/10 and recommend it for anyone that wants a sweet and heartwarming read. While at times the story may seem a little slow, completing the book was definitely worth it. 

Checkout Between Two Skies from the Newport Beach Public Library.