Review: When Shadows Fall by Sita Brahmachari

When Shadows Fall is a modern classic in the making. Holding the beautifully designed hardback in your hands is like possessing your own piece of treasure, a portal that transports you to the Greenlands apartments, where Kai and his friends struggle to make sense of the ever-shifting world around them. Coping with grief and depression in a world of uncertainty presents huge challenges for our central protagonist Kai and his family. His closest friends struggle to bring back the Kai they know and love; the Kai who loves ravens, who loves laughter and song and friendship. 

The book is written in such an unusual and breathtaking way; the text is interspersed with poetry and candid illustrations. The story flows between modes with power and grace, and not a word is out of place. Brahmachari has a unique, authentic voice that rings true with our generation. Love, loss, connection and art are all explored in this masterful tale. Each character is brought to life with honesty and depth, and the illustrations only serve to emphasise this raw emotion. The life lessons hidden within the pages of this book are stark and true. It is a must read, and will resonate with young people everywhere. 

Sarah Fitz, 17