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Book Review of Willow

Willow
Willow
Author: Julia Hoban
Genres: Children's Books, Teen & Young Adult
Book Type: Paperback
skywriter319 avatar reviewed on + 784 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 6


WILLOW is an impressive novel about a difficult subject. The main character, Willow, is extremely well developed, and this book approaches her path to healing in a careful, subtle, yet realistic way. It balances the time spent on Willow's personal healing, her growing relationship with Guy, and her healing relationship with her brother in a matter that's satisfying in the end.

Julia Hoban writes in the third-person limited present tense, which may be a bit jarring at first, but you will quickly lose yourself in the emotional ups and downs of this book. Willow's path to recovery is not easy, and sometimes you'll want to cry the tears that she cannot, as she continues to hurt herself even though there are people caring about her. The ending, however, is hopeful, and ties up all of the major relationship issues satisfactorily.

All in all, WILLOW is a rare accomplishment of poignancy, grief, and the healing power of love. Read it if you want a Sarah Dessen-like story about emotional numbness and the difficult road to healing and feeling again.