Discovering The Healing Power of Art and Love: A Review of 13 Ways to Say Goodbye by Kate Fussner
There’s something profoundly comforting about books that explore grief, growth, and the subtle complexities of young love, and that’s precisely what caught my attention when I stumbled upon 13 Ways to Say Goodbye by Kate Fussner. Having an affinity for lyrical narratives that address the throes of loss, I was drawn into Nina’s world, where art and emotion intertwine amidst the breathtaking backdrop of Paris. This novel-in-verse not only captivates with its poetic language but resonates on a deeply personal level as it navigates the intricate journey of healing and self-discovery.
At its heart, 13 Ways to Say Goodbye follows Nina, a young girl grappling with the aftermath of her sister Lily’s death. Eager to escape the suffocating atmosphere of her family, who seem to be struggling to cope in their own ways, Nina heads to an art camp in Paris — ostensibly to visit her Aunt Renee, but primarily to confront her grief and regrets. The clever framing of her journey through the lens of Lily’s unfinished “12 things to do before she turned 12” list adds a poignant layer to the narrative. As Nina embarks on the quest to fulfill the 13th item on that list, readers witness her evolution, from a girl burdened with longing and sorrow to one who starts to reclaim joy and purpose through art and budding romance.
The writing style in 13 Ways to Say Goodbye is striking in its simplicity and beauty, effectively reflecting Nina’s internal turmoil and emotional growth. Fussner’s use of verse not only enhances the lyrical quality of the prose but allows readers to dive deep into the character’s psyche, making every heartbeat and hesitation palpable. One can’t help but be swept away by Nina’s vivid dreams and the dreamlike quality of her experiences in Paris, especially those moments when she interacts with the spirited essence of Lily. This deft blending of reality and ethereal experiences gives the book a whimsical touch while staying grounded in the rawness of human emotion.
I was particularly struck by the portrayal of Nina’s relationship with Sylvie, her camp companion and love interest. Their romance is delicately woven into the fabric of the narrative, marked by awkward beginnings, gentle hand-holding, and the tender exploration of Nina’s identity as she grapples with her feelings. “Every time I think about my sister’s list, I realize that love is also something to complete,” Nina reflects, underscoring the novel’s central theme of rediscovering oneself amid loss.
While the narrative’s focus on Nina’s emotional resilience shines, I did find myself wishing for a more nuanced exploration of her parents’ grief. The depiction of well-meaning yet emotionally distant parents might paint a familiar picture, but I wonder why middle-grade fiction often leans toward this narrative while overlooking the importance of therapy and open communication. Contrast this with the encouraging, supportive figure of Aunt Renee, who provides Nina with the freedom to explore her feelings and artistic expressions without the whirlwind of adult expectations.
13 Ways to Say Goodbye is not just a touching read; it’s a heartfelt invitation to any young reader (or anyone young at heart) who has felt the weight of loss, the thrill of first love, and the redemptive power of pursuing passion. If you enjoyed other heartfelt tales that tackle familial loss, such as Summerlost by Ally Condie or The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise by Dan Gemeinhart, this book will undoubtedly resonate with you.
In closing, Kate Fussner has created a charming yet powerful narrative that invites us all to embrace the art of letting go and finding our own way to say goodbye. As I turned the last page, I found myself reflecting on my own journeys through grief and love, hopeful for the ways we each learn to fill the void left behind.
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