Review of Death Coming Up the Hill by Chris Crowe
When I first stumbled upon Chris Crowe’s Death Coming Up the Hill, I was instantly intrigued. The year 1968 has always carried a weighty significance in American history—an era of turmoil, transformation, and a youth awakening. The innovative approach of exploring such a profound period through the lens of a seventeen-year-old boy resonated deeply with me. Little did I know that this would not only be a glimpse into a pivotal time in history but also a poignant exploration of family dynamics and personal growth.
Ashe, the protagonist, finds himself ensnared between two conflicting worlds—his father’s rigid racism and his mother’s fervent peace activism—against the backdrop of the Vietnam War. The personal turmoil within his family mirrors the chaos of the world around him, and Crowe expertly weaves these layers into a narrative that’s both intimate and expansive. Ashe’s journey towards understanding his parents’ struggles and his own burgeoning identity—set against the tide of historical events—was, at times, heartbreaking yet exhilarating.
What truly captivated me about Death Coming Up the Hill was Crowe’s distinctive choice to tell Ashe’s story through haiku. It’s a bold and artistic choice, offering a lyrical quality that pulls you into Ashe’s emotional landscape. The format creates a sense of urgency and simplicity, yet it captures the complexity of Ashe’s thoughts and feelings in a unique way. Phrases like “I see Death coming up the hill, and I am not ready to meet him” lingered in my mind long after I turned the last page. The poetry doesn’t just serve as a stylistic device; it elevates the narrative, creating a thematic resonance that complements the exploration of mortality, conflict, and the stark realities of growing up.
Crowe’s pacing feels deliberate, allowing moments of tension to build while also providing necessary breaths of insight and reflection. The ongoing political upheaval—symbolized by the assassination of figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert Kennedy—adds layers of depth to Ashe’s story, inviting readers to contemplate the intersections of personal and public crises.
The heartrending moment in which Ashe grapples with the fear of being drafted into a war he doesn’t believe in is particularly impactful. It serves not only as a tangible threat to his youth but also as a gateway to understanding the greater societal conflicts of his time. For young adult readers grappling with similar themes of identity, family, and political consciousness, Ashe’s story becomes both a mirror and a guide.
I believe Death Coming Up the Hill would resonate profoundly with teens and adults interested in historical fiction that blends personal and political narratives. Fans of coming-of-age stories will find it a compelling reminder of the struggles faced by previous generations while offering reflective insights into our current societal challenges.
In closing, Chris Crowe’s Death Coming Up the Hill is more than just a historical narrative; it’s an empathetic invitation to reflect on our own lives and the world we inhabit. The experience of reading it was enlightening and moving—one I’ll cherish and recommend for years to come. Whether you’re a history buff, a poetry enthusiast, or a listener to the whispers of youth’s struggles, this book offers something profound for everyone.