Book details
What We Lost
Description
Hope can be hard to hold on to.When thirteen-year-old Jody goes missing, the national spotlight turns to Samara Taylor's small town of Pineview. With few clues for investigators to follow, everyone is a suspect, including Jody's older brother, Nick. But even as the town rallies in solidarity, Sam feels more alone than ever. Her mother is drifting farther and farther away while her father grows increasingly preoccupied as he steps in to help Jody's family in the wake of the disappearance. During the tense, uncomfortable days that follow, Sam draws closer to Nick as the local tragedy intersects with her personal one.National Book Award finalist Sara Zarr delivers a powerful novel about community, family, faith, and one girl's realization that sometimes you have to lose everything to find what's been missing all along.
Age
11-12
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
240 pages
Why to read
- Emotional Resonance: 'What We Lost' by Sara Zarr is a deeply moving novel that explores the complexities of grief, faith, and the process of healing. Reading it can provide a cathartic experience for those who have experienced loss, and can offer a profound sense of empathy and understanding for others' emotional journeys.
- Character Development: The book features richly drawn characters who are relatable and realistically flawed. Readers will find themselves invested in the protagonist's personal growth and the nuanced relationships that evolve throughout the story, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in character-driven narratives.
- Thought-Provoking Themes: Sara Zarr delves into themes such as the search for identity, the impact of trauma, and the struggle to find meaning in the wake of tragedy. These universal themes are presented in a way that encourages readers to reflect on their own lives and beliefs, sparking meaningful internal dialogue.
- Quality of Prose: Zarr's writing is both beautiful and accessible, striking a balance between poetic language and clear storytelling. Her ability to convey complex emotions and create vivid imagery makes 'What We Lost' a book that not only tells a powerful story but does so through exquisite literary craftsmanship.