Lisa Scottoline’s latest novel, Someone Knows, presents a multi-layered narrative that explores the lives of teenagers and their parents in a suburban community. While the story opens with the perspectives of five 15-year-olds—Allie, Sasha, David, Julian, and Kyle—this is not a young adult novel. Instead, it delves into themes of friendship, family dynamics, and the complexities of growing up.
The first fourteen chapters, spanning 99 pages, immerse readers in the voices of the teens, creating a vivid portrayal of their experiences and challenges. This choice of perspective may initially lead some to classify the book as young adult fiction, but Scottoline’s intention extends far beyond typical YA themes. The narrative quickly shifts to include the viewpoints of the teens’ parents, adding depth and complexity to the storyline.
The adult characters play crucial roles in shaping the narrative. Among them, Linda Garvey, Allie’s mother, and Daphne Barrow, Sasha’s mother, highlight the multifaceted relationships between parents and their children. Other key figures include Bill Hybrinski, David’s father, and Scot Browne, a real-estate developer whose influence permeates the community. The inclusion of these adults provides a broader context to the teens’ struggles, revealing how their actions are intertwined with familial expectations and societal pressures.
Scottoline’s ability to switch between these perspectives enriches the reading experience. The parents’ narratives often serve to contrast or complement the teenagers’ viewpoints, illustrating the generational divide and its impact on relationships. Each character brings a unique perspective, allowing readers to gain insight into the motivations and concerns of both age groups.
In this novel, Scottoline explores the themes of trust, secrecy, and the consequences of actions taken in youth. The intertwining lives of Allie, Sasha, David, Julian, and Kyle form a tapestry of emotions and experiences, challenging readers to consider how their own childhood decisions resonate into adulthood.
Through Someone Knows, Lisa Scottoline has crafted a compelling exploration of life’s complexities, making it appealing to a wide audience. The blend of youthful discovery and mature reflection ensures that the story resonates across generations, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences while engaging with the characters’ journeys.
