Naked Without a Hat

Rating:
Summary: a quirky, fun read
Review: NAKED WITHOUT A HAT is a coming-of-age story told in first person by the main character, Will Avery. Will must learn to assert himself with his mother and gain his independence. When he moves into a flat with Chrissy, James and Rocko, Will is well on his way to starting a new life for himself. Chrissy helps him get a new job at a park where he meets Zara, a gypsy girl whose family is camping illegally there. A romance soon blossoms between Will and Zara.

Will enjoys his first opportunity to live away from his mother. He makes new friends and earns the respect of his boss. Just when his life seems to be getting on track, his mother threatens to reveal their family "secret." Will's relationship with Zara is compromised. Will their love be strong enough to survive the truth? You will have to read NAKED WITHOUT A HAT to find out.

Ultimately, this story deals with prejudice of one kind or another. Almost everyone in the story has something to hide. When Will's secret is revealed at the end of the novel, the reader will see the narrative in a new light.

With a cast of quirky characters and an original plot, NAKED WITHOUT A HAT is a fun read for teens.

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