Throughout the book, I was able to experience Cassie's emotions and struggles as she continued to starve herself and attempt to find peace with Lia's death. Along the way Cassie begins to cut herself as her guilt and stress increases.
I have read many books that deal with serious issues of divorce, drugs, eating disorders, self harm, etc, but what I truly appreciate about this book is its ending. Other books have some ridiculously happy ending that seems a bit unrealistic. Anderson, on the other hand, was able to incorporate scenes involving Lia that leaves the reader wondering if what Cassie saw was real or not. Instead of ending the book with Cassie declaring that she is all better, Anderson shows the reader how Cassie is trying and still fighting a difficult battle, which is in my opinion pretty realistic.
I have read many books that deal with serious issues of divorce, drugs, eating disorders, self harm, etc, but what I truly appreciate about this book is its ending. Other books have some ridiculously happy ending that seems a bit unrealistic. Anderson, on the other hand, was able to incorporate scenes involving Lia that leaves the reader wondering if what Cassie saw was real or not. Instead of ending the book with Cassie declaring that she is all better, Anderson shows the reader how Cassie is trying and still fighting a difficult battle, which is in my opinion pretty realistic.
-Stephanie Kim
It sounds like this book was very intense with the message and content. I agree books that have serious content and issues that resolve to a happy ending seem out of place, and sort of ruin the lessons that come from the issues. Do you think what Cassie saw was real?
ReplyDelete-Aimee E
I agree that Anderson does, indeed, take her works into a more realistic realm than do most authors. The only thing I am concerned with this review is the somewhat lack of a true highlight. If you could give me some highlight from the novel then I can confirm that this Cassie character exists in a closer realm to us.
ReplyDeleteIn any case, I do appreciate you showing your perception of this work and look forward to the advancement of your posts! =)
-David Lim, Hot Wings
I'm not a fan of Speak but Wintergirls sounds interesting and intense. I also appreciate realistic endings as a "happily ever after" isn't always possible. I'm not sure what you mean by what Cassie sees or not. Do you mean experience? If so, don't we have to question whether she is living in reality or not?
ReplyDelete- K. Lui
This novel seems very interesting and in depth with the topics. I agree with the author ending it with a happy or relieving way. It just takes away from the issues and situations that occurred during the novel. Is Cassie trying to kill herself to be with Lia or is she just making herself go through the pain because of what happened?
ReplyDelete-jessica whitfield
I agree with Ammie this seems like a very intense book. Books like this capute our minds and make you feel all the emotions that the character might be feeling. Thats how you know its a good book.
ReplyDelete-Kyle Fischer
This novel is probably interesting to us because of the fact that it deals with real problems people face today. I like that this book doesn't end with a fairy tale ending like a majority of the books these days. I like to read about books like this that describe the struggles faced by ordinary everyday people. It shows the actual emotions which is what most people want to read about.
ReplyDelete-Amanda A.
Amanda makes a good point. I feel books that can capture us so much that we feel the emotions of the character are the books worth reading. If you can go through a whole book without feeling any kind of relationship to the characters or author, your not getting the full effect of the novel.
ReplyDelete-Tyler A.
I too like books that have realistic endings. But I also enjoy books that do have happy endings. Is it that hard to believe that something good can happen to people? I feel like we live in a society that is so consumed with the negative. I like reading books and watching movies that hae happy endings. I find they shed light on the "ugly" of the world. I mean when is the last time you have turned on the news and they talked about something positive? Long time right? War, fear, and death consumes our society. So yes it is nice to have a novel that is realistic, but I also think that novels that aren't are just as good. They can be an escape for the harsh reality of life.
ReplyDelete-Melanie
This analyisis makes me want to read this novel now. Good job at not giving too much information but just enough to keep us wondering.
ReplyDelete-Jonathan S
After reading your post i am interested in reading the novel. i am intrigued by stories that i am able to relate to. (stresses of course, not drastic eating disorders or suicide) However it is nice to hear that a sensable ending is put into play rather than the fairy tale "and they lived happily ever after." real life is never "happily ever after." instead we face troubles and hardships. It seems that the story presses on the fact that it does not matter WHAT you go through in life, it matters HOW you deal with it.
ReplyDelete^^ Toni G.
Deletesorry forgot to tag myself for credit.
I should think the realism's appeal should at least be in part due to the fantastical nature of classic happy endings. It would be because the novel stands in a genre where happy endings are the norm that it would have the impact it does. Were the norm grim endings a la 1984 I suspect reactions might be more muted.
ReplyDeleteDisclaimer: I have no idea what the magic:the gathering (tm) I am talking about.
K. Lin
I enjoy reading books about topics people can relate to. Throughout high school we have all either met someone who has experienced or have self-experienced a traumatizing event. Everyday we are surrounded by drugs, alcohol, eating disorders, etc. We're at a time in our life where we are striving for acceptance by our peers and as sad as that is, it's true. I think that people should read books like these to open there eyes to what is really going on, especially parents. This is happening, and books like this make that noticed.
ReplyDelete-Secada C.