Sigler’s  “about the author” bio says “Sigler made a New Year’s resolution in 2008 to complete a book.  Here it is.”  If this is true, I sincerely hope she made a similar resolution in 2009.  Thank yous are in order for  Mr. Jeffrey MacAdam Sigler, who she mentions in her dedication “insisted I finish at least one thing I started”.  You’re a good man.

I love the main character, Lila’s sarcasm, sense of humor, and general outlook on life. Except for her little stealing problem, she reminds me of a girl I went to school with.  The story follows her through her Catholic school childhood, when her kleptomania begins, through her public high school, and university.  It’s a coming of age story, a love story, an American girl story.  Lila lives through the large and small embarrassments and predicaments of school years, parents, and boyfriends, giving her unique spin on the details, and stealing things to help her deal with the stress.  Her stealing is not for money or thrills, but more of a comforting nervous habit like nail-biting or binging on ice cream.  It doesn’t make her seem evil and mean, but somehow more human and endearing.

I also love Lila’s mother Lynette (all her family members have “L” names).  Although she can be nasty and over-demanding, she makes Lila who she is.  Not just a neurotic knick-knack thief, but a strong, independent woman who thinks for herself.  Without Lynette there would be no Lila, just as with no Himalayas, we would not have a Sahara Desert.

It’s always going out on a limb to read a independently published book.  You never know what you’re going to end up with.  But Five Finger Fiction is not a disappointment.  This is very much a girl story…guys just wouldn’t get into it, and the dust jacket, cover, and little attached ribbon bookmark are screaming pink.  But that’s not a bad thing.    This book is one of those where the main character becomes so real, and so interesting, you don’t want it to end.  Only 209 pages, I read it in a few days, no major feat for me.  But I’m so hungry for more.  I want to call Lila up and ask her if she wants to go out to lunch sometime.  Just so I can hear her opinions and see what’s going on in her life now. The cool thing is, I think she’s very much like Brooks herself, who is a witty, charming lady available on Twitter.  In fact, I’d like to take a little look through her purse, see if there are things there that shouldn’t be!

Thanks to the author for sending me a review copy of her book. Loved it!