A review by bookedupandbusy
One for Sorrow, Two for Joy by Marie-Claire Amuah

3.0

Set against the backdrop of London and Ghana this coming of age story follows Stella, through her traumatic childhood to a hopeful adulthood.

The first half of the story is traumatic yet engrossing and based on Stella’s childhood. Her childhood was difficult to read as Stella’s father was angry and abusive towards her and her mother. I found myself more interested in the character of her brother Sol, his reactions and non-responsiveness to the abuse of his sister was something I wanted more answers on, I wanted to hear his child voice on this matter.

It is a skill to write a child’s voice for an adult audience and I have to give the author all the praise here as these chapters were captivating. Even though Stella had a disturbing childhood, she found ways to make light of the situation and the author does a great job in showing her innocence through the narration and dialogue.

The story is also based on superstitions as Stella believed by knocking on wood/seeing magpies could control her father’s behaviour or certain events in her life. Stella was also religious and I liked the contradiction of the two used throughout the story.

Stella’s diverse friendship group was beautiful. This was the first story I have read in a while that portrayed female friendship groups being supportive, kind and playing a big part into Stella’s growth.

I didn’t enjoy the second half of the story and it wasn’t as engaging as the first half. I thought it would be heavily based on confronting her father and brother but It felt like short stories and memories of Stella’s adult life with friends and at work. However I did understand the message which was traumatic events in your childhood can effect your lifestyle at work, choice of men, relationships etc. and that through therapy and support there is a light and hope at the end of the tunnel after trauma.