Eccentric Everything: [Blog Tour] Review: Unscripted Joss Byrd

Hey! Today we have another book tour! In this case, I took the liberty to read and review the featured book, Unscripted Joss Byrd by Lygia Day Peñaflor. And I can say that I LIKED it! This tour is hosted by Jasmine Pearl, from Jasmine Pearl Reads! Click the banner to visit her!

About the book

Title: Unscripted Joss Byrd

Author: Lygia Day Peñaflor

Number of Pages: 200+ (tpb)

Publication Date: August 23, 2016

Publisher: Roaring Book

Synopsis

Hollywood critics agree. Joss Byrd is "fiercely emotional," a young actress with "complete conviction," and a "powerhouse."

Joss Byrd is America's most celebrated young actress, but on the set of her latest project, a gritty indie film called The Locals, Joss's life is far from glamorous. While struggling with her mother's expectations, a crush on her movie brother, and a secret that could end her career, Joss must pull off a performance worthy of a star. When her renowned, charismatic director demands more than she is ready to deliver, Joss must go off-script to stay true to herself.

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Review

The second I finished the first chapter, I knew that this was already a good read. Upon first reading, one might think that this book is Young-Adult because of the vibes Joss gives. Sometimes, however, it feels kinda like Middle Grade, because the characters are full of youth and are really pure. Unscripted Joss Byrd starts off with rather an unusual opening scene, but I guess it sets the stage for building the entire setting for the book. It gave me a nuisance as to how Joss and her mom operate in real life, outside the set.

"No one cares how you get the shot as long as you get it."

I can say that it was a quick read. As the plot progressed, more and more is revealed about Joss and Viva and those around them. It's really intriguing for me, though. Like, my face when I realized that this was a YA and not a middle grade. Priceless. I guess it's related to the author's execution? I mean, she knew that Joss was a 14 year-old child actress. And she centered the entire book around her own choices, decisions, and repercussions. I like how the scenes interconnected with each other, considering that Joss's character was in the process of developing in terms of personality and well, puberty? LOL.

"It was worth it, then, right?" He gives me a bigger, sadder, smile. "'Cause you got a brother, and I got a sister."

What really struck me about the book was the fact that it felt so genuine. I could look through the lens of the camera and find out what's really happening. I think that Unscripted Joss Byrd, together with its pacing, characters, and plot fit together. The emotional aspect wasn't even exaggerated (unlike in some works), and was let to develop as the pages turn. Joss is a really nice character and I'd LOVE to read about her again!