Anne Cassidy's Looking for JJ offers a compelling exploration of guilt and identity through the story of Jennifer Jones, a child who killed another child. Many reviews commend its psychological depth and nuanced character development. However, some critique the pacing and find certain plot twists predictable. Overall, it's a thought-provoking read on redemption and societal judgment.

Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers and young adult fiction will be captivated by Looking for JJ. Fans of Jay Asher's Thirteen Reasons Why and Laurie Halse Anderson's Speak will find similar themes of trauma, identity, and redemption in this suspenseful, thought-provoking novel.

Looking for JJ by Anne Cassidy is a young adult thriller that follows British teen Alice Tully as she attempts to lead a new life under a changed identity after serving time for a crime she committed as a child, revealing themes of guilt, justice, and forgiveness, while her past increasingly threatens to resurface. Contains sensitive topics including child murder and exploitation.

Mysterious / Dark / Emotional / Suspenseful / Melancholic

- Looking for JJ was shortlisted for the prestigious Carnegie Medal in 2004, highlighting its impact and recognition in the young adult literary community.
- Anne Cassidy, the author of Looking for JJ, is known for exploring dark and complex themes in her novels, often focusing on crime and its psychological impacts.
- Before becoming a full-time writer, Anne Cassidy worked as a teacher, which influenced her understanding of young adult perspectives and issues showcased in her books.

**Jennifer Jones/Alice Tully/Kate Rickman**  
A young woman with a troubled past who tries to navigate her new life while wrestling with her uncertain identity and the impact of her childhood actions.

**Carol Jones**  
Jennifer’s mother, who became pregnant at a young age and struggles to balance her career and responsibilities, often neglecting Jennifer in favor of seeking fame and money.

**Rosie**  
Alice’s foster mother, who provides the warmth and care Alice lacked in her early life, offering stability and support in her new environment.

**Frankie**  
Alice’s boyfriend and a university student, initially presented as aggressive but is eventually shown to be immature yet genuinely caring.

**Michelle**  
Jennifer's childhood best friend, known for her bossy demeanor, whose relationship with Jennifer profoundly affects the story.

**Lucy**  
A neighborhood girl who becomes friends with Jennifer and occasionally stays with Michelle, shy by nature and younger than Jennifer and her friends.

**Sonia**  
A schoolmate of Jennifer, briefly befriends Michelle, and becomes involved in an altercation that significantly impacts Jennifer’s childhood.

**Mr. Cottis**  
A photographer associated with Carol, characterized by his sneaky and untrustworthy nature, involved in inappropriate activities alongside Jennifer’s mother.

**Sara Wright**  
An investigative journalist who befriends Alice under the guise of a neighbor and teacher, attempting to write a story while maintaining Alice's anonymity.

Anne Cassidy

Novel

Jennifer Jones

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Looking for JJ Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Alice Tully”

Part 1, Chapters 1-4

Looking for JJ Part 1, Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 5-7

Looking for JJ Part 1, Chapters 5-7 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 8-10

Looking for JJ Part 1, Chapters 8-10 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Jennifer Jones”

Part 2, Chapters 11-13

Looking for JJ Part 2, Chapters 11-13 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 14-16

Looking for JJ Part 2, Chapters 14-16 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 17-19

Looking for JJ Part 2, Chapters 17-19 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Alice Tully”

Part 3, Chapters 20-22

Looking for JJ Part 3, Chapters 20-22 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 23-26

Looking for JJ Part 3, Chapters 23-26 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “Kate Rickman”

Part 4 Looking for JJ Part 4 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Looking for JJ Character Analysis

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Important Quotes

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Looking for JJ

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