Chat Room - Reviews
CM Magazine
By the end of Chat Room, Linda has learned some important truths about communication and making friends. One hopes that young readers would get the message that they should not be afraid to be themselves: they will find other people who enjoy their company. And, like so much of life, few things – or people – should be judged on first appearances. (Karin Rankin)
Kliatt
Teens can obviously relate to chat rooms and this new addition to the Orca Currents series offers a balanced look at the social connections, both real and virtual, and the basic need to feel accepted. (Stephanie Squicciarini)
Voya
The subject matter is topical and will appeal to readers familiar with instant messaging and MySpace.com. Its subject matter and breezy style will make it a novel sought by female reluctant readers. (Steven Kral)
Children's Literature
...the author bravely takes a look at the controversy surrounding teenagers, the Internet, and private chat rooms. The plot is fairly simple, while the issues are not. And in the end, there are a few surprise twists that lead to a satisfying conclusion; including Linda's necessary realization that "you can't really find out what someone is like by what they say online, can you?" A very palatable attempt at a difficult and emotionally fraught subject.
Resource Links
Serious safety issues surrounding chat rooms are addressed here by situating the chat room in a secure school-based facility. Concerns over personal safety still arise; however, the manner in which they are addressed and dealt with is both believable and instructive. There is an interesting denouement between personal jealousy and imagined risk played against a background of naivety and genuine personal regard. (Leslie Little)
Victoria Times-Colonist
Kristin Butcher presents an excellent conduit for discussion between parents, teachers and students on safety issues that surround online chat rooms and young people. (Dale Morrison)
infolink
The story is relevant and believable. The front cover is eye-catching ... the chapters are short and easy to read, making this book and the Orca Current Series in constant circulation. (Melissa Spatucci)
Canadian Book Review Annual
... a good high-interest, low vocabulary read for reluctant female middleschoolers.