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A review by librarinamama
Unbecoming by Jenny Downham
4.0
Although I loved this story, I understand that it may not be for everyone. It jumps back and forth between the past and the present, and there are multiple points of view, so some readers might not be able to follow so easily. Plus, there isn't much in the way of action and adventure, which might turn some people off. But there is love, and loss, and yearning, and learning about self and family and friendship. So much emotional depth! I hadn't really heard anything about this book before I saw the audiobook was immediately available for download via my local library, but I did recognize Jenny Downham's name because I recalled sobbing my eyes out as I read Before I Die. (I often search and see which YA titles are "available now" rather than searching specific titles because I like to find hidden gems and, well, I am impatient!) So, yeah... I decided to give it a go. And, boy am I glad I went for it!
Katie is seventeen and she is struggling with several things. First, and foremost, she is struggling with her sexuality. Not only is she not totally sure how she identifies, but she is being bullied at school because of it. On top of that, she has an overbearing mom (Caroline), who often needs her to help care for her special needs brother (Chris). And, as if that all wasn't enough, she also discovers that she has a grandmother (Mary) whom she never really knew and who now requires a place to live and constant care because she has Alzheimer's and her long-time partner/caregiver (Jack) just died of a heart attack. When Katie decides to record stories in a memory book, to try to help preserve Mary's memories, she discovers so much more than family history and secrets. She uncovers a variety of reasons her mother is so up-tight and the realization that "truth" varies greatly with perspective.
Happy Reading!
Katie is seventeen and she is struggling with several things. First, and foremost, she is struggling with her sexuality. Not only is she not totally sure how she identifies, but she is being bullied at school because of it. On top of that, she has an overbearing mom (Caroline), who often needs her to help care for her special needs brother (Chris). And, as if that all wasn't enough, she also discovers that she has a grandmother (Mary) whom she never really knew and who now requires a place to live and constant care because she has Alzheimer's and her long-time partner/caregiver (Jack) just died of a heart attack. When Katie decides to record stories in a memory book, to try to help preserve Mary's memories, she discovers so much more than family history and secrets. She uncovers a variety of reasons her mother is so up-tight and the realization that "truth" varies greatly with perspective.
Happy Reading!