Only Child by Rhiannon Navin Published by Knopf on 06/02/2018
Genres: Fiction
Pages: 304
Format: eBook
Goodreads
A mesmerizing debut, Rhiannon Navin’s Only Child touches the heart of her readers through the narrative of a seven-year-old boy.
The storyline of this book is based on reality. The recent events of shooting in schools in the USA, the novel tries to explore the horrible incident in a realistic but a unique manner. The novel deals with the aftermath of a school shooting. From the voice and eyes of a seven-year-old Zach Taylor. His voice not only explores his own pain and emotions but that of his parents and other surrounded. While Zach’s mother pursues a quest for justice against the shooter’s parents by holding them responsible, Zach does the opposite. He sets on a journey of healing and forgiveness, determined to help the adults in his life, his parents and to discover the love and compassion that can pull them out of their darkest hours.
The theme of the storyline is based on realism. The way it is told is beautiful. Putting all the responsibility on a seven-year-old to describe all the events with clarity and in a careful manner to the reader, is a job well done in this book. The narration engaged me from first few pages until the end of the book. It made me curious, it made me realize the harsh reality of loss, love, parents and the process of healing. Emotionally, the plot has all the elements that will engage the reader to think and feel at the same time. The confusion and the feeling of being neglected are the biggest emotions that a reader will clearly observe through Zach’s heart.
I applaud the author on her writing style. It did sound a bit overwhelming for a seven-year-old to narrate feelings that I do not think I ever felt when I was the same age as Zach. However, she mesmerizingly captures the events that sadly and terrifyingly might have been the reality. During the last chapters, a reader will clearly observe that how hypocrite the adults are in their spoken words and doable actions. This an important element of the novel that the author wants us to convey through the eye of a seven-year-old.
The characterization is flawless as the writing style. They develop with the plot, we see their flaws and how with compassion these characters overcome all the hatred and loss. I could not believe that it was a debut since it is a very mature and professional piece of work.
A must read since I consider this novel a Modern Day To Kill a Mockingbird. A perfect read if you are looking for something to discuss next week in your book club.
5 out of 5
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