Kelly, Margo. Who R U Really?. Blue Ash, Ohio: Merit Press, 2014.

I have mixed feelings about this book. I purchased for my library based on the reviews I read because students need be much more aware of internet safety. Thea’s story is a scary one. She begins by playing an online game where she meets and becomes involved with Kit. She is in Idaho; she believes Kit is in Georgia. Gradually, in spite of her very aware and protective parents, Thea becomes more and more involved with him. She shares personal information; uses an email that her parents don’t know about; and ultimately shares her cell phone number with him. She becomes increasingly isolated from her family and friends. Every nightmare that every teacher and parent has about online predators is realized over the course of this novel. Turns out, the plot seems so real because it is based on the real life experience of Kelly’s daughter. Scary stuff.

I am not entirely certain that this novel will accomplish as strong a warning as I would have liked. Thea’s mom and dad briefly discuss the concept of grooming. I certainly recognized the grooming as it was happening, but I’m not entirely sure the process is elucidated enough for the students who will be reading this. I did, however, appreciate the message that is loud and clear that people you only know online are never your friends. Ultimately, even the main character accepts this message. Another issue I had in the end is that the mom bears some responsibility for encouraging the stalker who is after her daughter. I didn’t like that daughter’s responsibility being mitigated that way. The novel also includes an anorexic best friend, and the love of a boy who certainly seems wiser than his years - almost unbelievably so. At some times the variety of story lines were just too much for one book. Finally, the writing here was not as strong as many YA author’s are, but not so weak as many students will notice. I found myself a bit lost in lengthy descriptions of hair dos and outfits that just seemed a bit misplaced.

Ultimately, while I wouldn’t consider this a must read, I will be working on getting this book in the hands of my students. Awareness of the dangers of the internet and social media is so important. The fact that the story is based on a true one will engage many of my readers. The creepy factor is also a book talk draw. Others will be drawn to the suspense engendered by the story.