Girl Overboard (S.A.S.S.)

I found Girl Overboard to be an awesome book, and it also scarily reminded me of my life! My initial reaction after reading was, "Wow, I'd love to do a cruise like this, it reminds me of a letter that my classmates and I received that discusses a trip to Australia, which would be fun if I could afford it." All my life, I have enjoyed the sea and marine animals and such, as one of the first careers I have ever considered is "dolphin trainer" which I can now convert to marine biologist.My other main interest is writing, which I have been told is by teachers and peers is a talent. The main character's old boyfriend in Vermont reminds me of my ex boyfriend, and although he was kind, he was basically trapped in one place, constantly at a computer. I have always wanted to explore the world, especially involving the ocean, animals, and something for college or career credit would be a large benefit as well.The story and characters were excellent and likable, I especially enjoyed the description of Lincoln (Link), and although I do not always liketoo much overconfidence, he seemed charming and sweet, not to mention his imaginable suave Australian accent. I also experience the same torn feeling as Marina, because though I want to explore the world and travel far, I am afraid of leaving my friends and loved ones behind.I usually don't completely enjoy "chick-flick"esque books, but Girl Overboard has a great, driving plot, interesting characters, and a wonderful writing style that made me feel like I was on the Students Across the Seven Seas program as well.This book was not only entertaining and a good read, but made me think of my future, as I am two years away from college and such. In fact, after reading this book, I became more interested in marine biology again, and have decided to take the Marine Science and Creative Writing Workshop classes during my high school years. I am grateful that I have read this book, and I wish the best of luck on Aimee Ferris' success.

It seems to Marina like it should be a dream: six weeks on a luxurious ship, experiencing ocean life face to face as she's never been able to before, and the chance to further her goal of becoming a marine biologist. But she can't help worrying that she'll miss her long-time boyfriend, Damon, so much that the trip will become a nightmare. That's the basic premise of GIRL OVERBOARD, a fun, fast read that's easy to enjoy, especially if you share Marina's fascination with the ocean.Marina is a likable main character, with insecurities and doubts anyone can relate to as she struggles to figure out what she wants out of life. Her heart's in the right place, but she can't help taking a few missteps along the way, which just makes her all the more sympathetic. The other major characters -- flirtatious Link, bubbly Jeanette, thoughtful Ryan -- are colorful and distinctive. They also all prove to have more to them than Marina (and the reader) first suspects.The novel is most involving when dealing with Marina's oceanic studies. The author bio reveals that Ferris has spent many years in the Caribbean, and her experience shows in the vivid descriptions of the landscapes, animals, and island life, as well as the detailed procedures Marina participates in to try to preserve that environment. The reader feels right there with Marina, whether it's feeding a dolphin for the first time or diving with an enormous whale shark. It's clear why Marina loves this work so much, and anyone can understand why she's considering leaving everything she cares about back home to pursue her dream career.Where the novel falters a little is in Marina's romantic conflicts. Her realization of the differences between herself and her boyfriend develops gradually and realistically, and her attraction to Link, who shares many of her interests and values, seems only natural. Unfortunately, the problems that arise with both Damon and Link are resolved so easily there is hardly any tension at all -- Marina simply speaks her mind, and everything works out. While it's wonderful to portray honesty as a solution to problems, a few more complications would have made this part of the story more exciting and interesting.Nevertheless, the focus of the novel is more on the ocean and Marina's adoration for it than on the boys in her life. There, the novel succeeds completely. Whether as a beach read or a read for those who only wish they were down by the sea, it won't fail to entertain.Reviewed by: Lynn Crow

In Ferris's author debut she writes an addition to the S.A.S.S. Series. Before reading Girl Overboard I hadn't picked up any of the other S.A.S.S. books. In fact it was only halfway through Ferris's novel that I realized it was part of a series. Girl Overboard easily stands alone, but after finishing it I am eager to dive into more S.A.S.S. stories. The characters and scenery are wonderfully written and draw you into the life of Marina and her adventures as she sails through the Caribbean. Girl Overboard is the perfect Summer beach read. Overall 5/5 stars, Young Adults would likely enjoy this novel.

this book was absolutly amazing. i love how it was written. and the fact that it wa a fairly quick read. ive read almost all of the s.a.s.s. books and this has to be one of my top favorites. the main character was so easy to relate to. and she seemed so real. all of the characters did. perfect for a tropical vcation when you cant realy have one. this is a must read.

Published as part of Penguin's Students across Seven Seas (S.A.S.S.) line, Girl Overboard by Aimee Ferris charts Marina's trip aboard a ship with kids from around the world. This book is not only about studying abroad, but about appreciating and protecting marine life. It touches on many other things, such as being away from home, relating to different cultures, even unmasking poachers.Much like the seas in which Marina swims, there's more to this book than meets the eye. The poacher storyline is handled well, and the creatures and facts sprinkled throughout the story are well-researched. The school-on-a-ship setting will appeal to teens who dream of traveling to other countries. I hope that readers start thinking about how they too can make conservation efforts.