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A review by labsandliterature
Runaway Train by Lee Matthew Goldberg
4.0
Runaway Train is a deceptively hard hitting novel that really took me by surprise. Set in the 90’s, it is filled with grunge music references and perfectly captures the teenage experience at the time.
The book follows protagonist Nico who is desperate to be free of the stigma and association of her sister who suddenly died on the same day as River Phoenix. In her attempt to avoid dealing with her grief she ends up hitting rock bottom. It is only then that she realises who she is, that she can exist without her sister while still honouring and remembering her.
The characters are vivid and well written and really drive the narrative. I love character driven stories so this was perfect for me. The book takes you on a journey as well and is filled with shenanigans but I was particularly drawn to Nico.
A wonderful contemporary that focuses on the power of loss and grief and the steps needed to learn and grow and emerge. I loved it.
The book follows protagonist Nico who is desperate to be free of the stigma and association of her sister who suddenly died on the same day as River Phoenix. In her attempt to avoid dealing with her grief she ends up hitting rock bottom. It is only then that she realises who she is, that she can exist without her sister while still honouring and remembering her.
The characters are vivid and well written and really drive the narrative. I love character driven stories so this was perfect for me. The book takes you on a journey as well and is filled with shenanigans but I was particularly drawn to Nico.
A wonderful contemporary that focuses on the power of loss and grief and the steps needed to learn and grow and emerge. I loved it.