The Tutor by Peter Abrahams

I got The Tutor from one of the library book sales I went to . I have to admit the first thing that drew my attention was the title of the book. Being a tutor and teaching kids I grabbed it. This book was not really about tutoring or teaching, but was still really good. It was such a well written book and I really liked it. I give it a B+.

From Amazon:
When Scott and Linda Gardner hire Julian Sawyer to tutor their troubled teenage son Brandon, he seems like the answer to a prayer. Capable and brilliant, Julian connects with Brandon in a way neither of his parents can. He also effortlessly helps Linda to salvage a troubled business deal and gives Scott expert advice on his tennis game. Only eleven-year old Ruby—funny, curious, devoted to Sherlock Holmes—has doubts about the stranger in their midst who has so quickly become like a member of the family. But even the observant Ruby is far from understanding Julian’s true designs on the Gardners.For Julian, the Gardners are like specimens in jars, creatures to be studied— and manipulated. Scott is a gambler with no notion of odds, festering in the shadow of his more successful brother. Linda is ambitious, hungry for the cultured stimulation Julian easily provides. Brandon is risking his future late at night in the town woods. And Ruby—well, she’s just a silly little girl. And in that miscalculation lies the Gardner family’s only possible salvation.

Mr. Abrahams is just a fantastic writer. All of the characters really seem to come to life and even though it is really easy to identify their faults, you really come to like them and can almost see some of yourself in them. I especially loved Ruby- "the silly little girl". Some of her interests truly remind me of myself and I can relate to her feelings on her relationship with her brother. Besides the characters, the suspense was well done. I did feel like the ending was a bit rushed which reflected my lower grade. I did some research on the author and was surprised that the Mr. Abrahams is the author who wrote the book that the movie The Fan was based on. I loved that movie though it has been forever since I have seen it. I am definitely going to keep this author on my list of those to keep my eyes open for.

I am not sure what I am going to read next. I did receive the next George Shuman book from Barbara in the mail yesterday. I don't think I am going to jump right in to it though, since I just finished the previous one. I am going to browse the shelves and find something that has been sitting there for awhile. Happy Reading!