“Mackenzie, Lost and found is the utterly original, beautifully crafted story of a forbidden love…I have to give serious kudos to Deborah Kerbel for writing this wonderful book…I thoroughly enjoyed it and would recommend this book to anyone…I know it is one I’ll be re-reading and I’m proud to have it in my personal library.”
-Briana, The Book Pixie
“The author’s description of Jerusalem offers a vivid and fascinating outsiders look at a city that is both ancient and modern. Kerbel’s description of the sights, sounds, and smells, of the city is tactile and engrossing. She depicts the ethnic conflict that arises between Jewish Israelis, Muslim Arabs, and a Gentile Canadian with sensitivity and insight…Mackenzie, Lost and Found is an excellent read for teens of any age.”
“The setting was so spot-on, it practically painted you right into the scenery, so that you can ogle the sights yourself…I really did enjoy this book. It’s memorable for the culture it brings, and although the ending was abrupt, I liked the subtle imperfectness of it. And the character of Mackenzie’s father was completely quirky and likeable. He was a cape-wearing archaelogist - can you really get much better?”
“The idea of the book was fabulous. While the idea of “forbidden love” has been done before, this book makes it different and original…it was really good.”
-Hope Lagrois, Hope’s Bookshelf
“(This) novel introduces the Mideast conflict to teens…”
“Like Mackenzie herself, readers are sure to fall under the spell of Jerusalem and its many charms as the author adroitly conveys a sense of the land, its people, and its rich history. While she depicts the tension and the ever-present threat of violence simmering near the surface of ordinary life, she also captures the awesomeness of its ancient ties. Her story gives readers much to think about…”
-Canadian Children’s Book News, Spring 2009 Edition
“Mackenzie, Lost and Found appeals to a wide audience, including anyone who enjoys romances, mysteries, history, culture, or coming of age novels.”
“A good contemporary tale, with an exceptionally fine setting for 12-15-year-old readers.”
“Kerbel’s writing was really good and she really made Mackenzie’s voice feel like that of a teen and it was hard for me to put the book down. This was a great book that deals with loss, first love, traveling, culture shock and a father-daughter relationship. Written in a simple yet thought-provoking way, Mackenzie, Lost and Found is a great read!”
-Carolina Rueda, Bookluver Carol’s Reviews
“Romance, culture, mystery, and action? What’s not to love? I think just about anyone could find something they liked in this fast-paced pageturner. I can definitely see myself reading this again in the future. ”
“A good avenue to explore Jewish and Muslim religious traditions, relationships with family and friends, and the sweetness of first love.”
“There was indeed a point where I cried…Kerbel is a strong writer and I definitely look forward to reading something else by her.”
“Readers are challenged to think right along with Mackenzie in this sensitive, romantic, and intriguing read, and are sure to learn plenty along the way. Kerbel has created a unique, inviting, and thought provoking book that is sure to grab teens looking for something different.”
“Kerbel creates such a real setting and plot. Her writing style was flowing and makes you want more. I can’t wait for more books from her in the future.”
-Sarah’s Random Musings, A Young Adult Book Review Blog
“This solid coming-of-age story offers a unique setting and a likeable young heroine.”
“Wonderful characters are made more vivid by the city of Jerusalem which almost felt like a character itself. I loved the taste of that exotic city that author, Kerbel, gave us. She very gently encourages the reader to think about the complexities of living in such a volatile place.”
-Karen Bass, Author of Run Like Jager.
-Canlit for Teens, distributor of ‘Outstanding Recently Published Canadian Children’s Books’.
“Gut-wrenching…from the moment I saw the cover, I knew I just had to read it. I love knowing that I got a book that my students enjoy for the library!”
-Amanda Villagómez, Mrs. V’s Reviews
“This book really is a poignant coming of age story with a twist…Kerbel is a great writer. With a writing style that is familiar but distinctive at once. She gives a taste of what’s there but keeps you wanting more and more. Overall, this novel was a very well done and extremely original. I hope to read more of Kerbel soon…”
-Kelsey Boeckermann, Reading Keeps You Sane
“This novel grabs you from the first page and doesn’t let go until the very last line!”
-Marina Cohen, Author of Shadow of the Moon and Trick of the Light.
“The plot races towards a hair-raising climax and ends on a beautifully thought- provoking moment. Definitely a book for your must-read list!”
-Mahtab Narsimhan, Author of The Third Eye (2009 Silver Birch Award Winner)
“I really enjoyed this YA novel. It’s a story that starts with a spark and gradually builds into a conflagration of romance, suspense and action! I recommend this book!”
-Marisa Zammit, Librarian and Author of A Friend in Hope.
“Deborah Kerbel weaves a very convincing tale of a Canadian girl, adrift in an unfamiliar land. A wonderful tale with believable characters and an imaginative premise.”
-Hélène Boudreau, Author of Acadian Star (2009 Hackmatack Award Nominee).
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