Tag: Emma Daly

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Review: Girl on Fire by Alicia Keys and Andrew Weiner

Girl on Fire 

Alicia Keys, Andrew Weiner

Illustrated by Brittney Williams

Harper Alley, March 2022

Hardback, £12.99

ISBN 9780063029569

Girl on Fire follows the story of Lolo Wright and her discovery of her hidden power, the ability to control objects with her mind. This is a beautiful graphic novel that portrays the realities of being a teenager with superpowers thrown into the mix. Prejudice, class, race and the importance of family and friends are just some of the themes explored within the colourful illustrations on each page. It was a refreshing change of pace to read about a strong female superhero. The authors don’t sugar coat the truth in this book, they tackle many different issues head on.

Lolo is such an endearing and inspiring protagonist as well as a great role model. At fourteen years old, she is razor sharp and top of her class. Even as she faces extreme danger and threats to herself and her family, she displays remarkable strength and resilience. The reader gets to observe her journey as she grapples with her newfound power, antagonists and fitting in at school.

I would highly recommend this graphic novel to anyone looking for a unique read, it is penned by Alicia Keys and the title comes from her chart-topping song of the same title. It is suitable for younger teens and anyone looking for a nail-biting, action packed read.

Emma Daly 

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Review: The Gone Book by Helena Close

The Gone Book
Helena Close
Little Island Books, April 2020
Paperback, €9.99
ISBN 9781912417445

The Gone Book forces you to question the consequences of one decision: whether or not to abandon your family; to go on holiday; or to learn to skate. Each decision has a definite, and sometimes catastrophic, ripple effect that echoes in the lives of those close to you.

Matt’s life has drastically changed since his mother left five years ago. In order to process this monumental disruption to his life, he writes letters to his mother in his Gone Book. This journal gives the reader a chronological insight into Matt’s emotions in the days, weeks and years that follow. He keeps the Gone Book secret and hidden, tucked away from prying eyes. Entries to the Gone Book are artfully sprinkled throughout the novel and depict the highs and lows of Matt’s family life, and the consequences of his mother’s decision to leave.

The narrative of this book begins as Matt’s mother suddenly returns to Limerick and causes great upheaval. Helena Close expertly captures the varied effects of both the absence and unexpected return of Matt’s mother on all three siblings, as well as their father. The emotional push and pull of this novel is captivating and it really drew me in. Anger, suffering and violence simmer under the surface in each chapter, but we also feel Matt’s longing to have his mother back permanently. He wishes for stability not just for himself but for his brothers Jamie and Conor. I would highly recommend this book. It’s a chaotic read, full of twists and turns. It is gritty and realistic, and highlights the anguish of an absent parent and the strife of teenage friendships.

Emma Daly, 18