May B. by Caroline Starr Rose This book is so beautiful. It’s the kind of book I would have loved when I was a tween (is that the term now? I’m so old, lol)—it’s got an intensity and seriousness to it, but it’s still so accessible. I’ve never read a novel in verse before and wasn’t sure how I’d feel about it. I wondered if it would slow down my reading. Instead though, I think it made it swifter, while at the same time, some of the line breaks would add punch to thoughts, descriptions, or emotions.
This story is intense, un-put-down-able. This book enters loneliness and darkness and hope in ways that are just almost heart-stopping. Though set in the past, it’s one of those books that feel universal, that grabs you with its raw language, stark images, and-- even though it’s set in the middle of nowhere--it still has incredible momentum and tension.
May B. debuts January 2012 (Schwartz and Wade/Random House Children's Books). My thanks to NetGalley for letting me read this ARC.
Heather, you have no idea what this means to me (Or maybe you do? Or will soon?). Thank you. I have drawn so much strength from this child (and yes, she's real -- at least to me). She has taught me about bravery and hope. So glad she spoke to you, too.
ReplyDeleteAnd I'm thrilled May was your introduction to verse! A little secret: I only read two verse novels before writing this. Shh! Don't tell.
I definitely did not see this on NetGalley last time I checked! I hope it's still there; otherwise, I'll have to wait!
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