About the Author

Kathryn Berla is the author of the young adult novels 12 Hours in Paradise, The House at 758, Dream Me, and Going Places (which received one of VOYA Magazine's Perfect 10 ratings for 2018). The Kitty Committee, a novel of psychological suspense, is her first novel written for adult readers. When she's not writing, she's reading (usually three or four books concurrently). When she's not reading, she's either dreaming about traveling or actually traveling. And when she's doing none of the above, you can probably find her in a movie theater, watching Netflix, or exercising. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area. You can learn more about her at www.KathrynBerlaBooks.com.

Reviews

"The House at 758 tells the subtle tale of a girl who is living through the aftermath of her mother's death and has developed an unhealthy fixation on its cause. The story will ring true with those who have experienced trust issues, boy troubles, loss, and growing up too soon. Krista is thoughtful, genuine, and well rounded, allowing a common plot device to result in a story that is both unique and enjoyable." - VOYA--VOYA

"A moving, mysterious coming-of-age story." - Kirkus Reviews--Kirkus Reviews

"A story of grief and coping, this title tackles the weight and confusion of losing a parent with no true place to set blame. There is an honesty and rawness to Krista's narration as she acknowledges the extreme highs and lows of her thoughts and emotions. The gradual revealing of the story of Krista's mother's death will prompt readerly consideration of moral beliefs, mental wellness, class structures, and the definition of justice. Readers will appreciate this glimpse into the messy and complicated journey towards renewal and healing."--Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

Gr 6 Up-Krista lives with her father who has recently let his new girlfriend move into their home. Krista's mother died two years ago, and she is stuck in a debilitating funk from which she cannot find her way out. The only way she feels control is through her constant surveillance of the house at 758. Her self-destruction leads her to an unexpected friendship with the local football celebrity Jake, but she still obsesses over what she can never get back. It is only when her Venezuelan maternal grandfather visits that she is pulled back to reality and can truly find a way toward forgiveness and acceptance. This was a wonderful story about life's struggles and not only forgiving others for unfortunate mistakes, but forgiving one's self. The slim novel starts off slow but Berla finds a rhythm toward the middle of the story, and it unfolds beautifully into a tale that teens and tweens will enjoy.

VERDICT Despite the story's slow beginning, readers will inevitably become invested in Krista's healing and will enjoy the novel's positive message. A strong purchase.-Davia Schmidt, Queens Public Library, NY--School Library Journal