Teenage years can be troublesome for most of us, regardless of how well we've got it. Dealing with expectations of parents, teachers, friends and any/all of the other people that seem to want something from you, or want you to do something. Trying to feel comfortable in your own skin can be is one of the most difficult things to achieve when you can't even fathom your place in the world.
These are just some of the things that came to mind as I read this novel by debut author Emma Cameron. Then, on top of all of those expectations, awkwardness, friendships, etc. some people have a troubled home life thrust on them as well. I find it hard to imagine everything that some teens have to go through as well as just being a teenager. This book helped me see some of those things.
A stunning verse novel that really brought these characters alive, Cinnamon Rain follows three teens approaching the end of year 10, Luke, Bongo, and Casey (the girl they both love). I loved the format of this book. first, we get Luke's story, which introduces us to the other two as well as others in his life. Some aspects of his friends' lives remain a mystery to him though. Then, we get a similar time line over again from Bongo's point of view, taking us a little further along in time. Finally, we revisit the events from Casey's perspective, filling in the gaps that were left and taking us to a place where the characters have a chance at a sense of belonging.
Occasionally, I hear people scoff, or turn up their nose at a verse novel. I don't understand this. I genuinely feel that it is a great and under-used format. On the most basic level, they are simply easier on the eyes to read. You breeze through it, absorbing it all with ease. Then, poetry is ripe with poignancy, each poem with its 'punch-line' bringing the message home on each page. I love it, and Cinnamon Rain was no exception.
All in all, this is a great teen read by a new Australian author that I now look forward to what she does next.
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Great review Little Elf Man! I only made the relisation recently that this book was verse and I must admit I baulked a little. I have never read one before and I wasn't sure it was "my thing", but your review has encouraged me to approach this with an open mind. I hope to be delighted!
ReplyDeleteThanks Shirley! It's definitely worth a read! Some people are doing some really interesting things with verse novels and/or poetry in YA books. Have you read 'The Sky Is Everywhere' by Jandy Nelson? It's not verse, but uses poems and is amazing!
DeleteI've heard that The Sky Is Everywhere is amazing. Thanks for the personal rec Michael, that helps to bump it closer to my Read Now pile:)
DeleteNo worries Shirley! Glad to be of service!
DeleteP.S. I was stalkbooking you just now and noticed you have excellent taste in music! :)
I finally finished and reviewed this book myself Michael and I really loved it! Thanks to your review for giving me that push, I really appreciated it. PS - why thank you. But you should hear the music that I don't let people know I listen to :)
ReplyDeleteI too have that side of my music collection... But we're allowed! :)
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