As part of the Teen Volunteer Program, Alexis wrote a review of a teen fiction title. See Alexis' thoughts on Normal People by Sally Rooney below, then check out the book for yourself and decide if you agree!
Normal People follows the on-again, off-again love story of Marianne Sheridan and Connell Waldron across their adolescence in high school through college. Marianne and Connell form a deep attachment based on their shared values and perspectives on life, both dealing with feelings of being different from their peers in their small town in Dublin. This book explores both Marianne’s personal feelings as she struggles with self-confidence and navigating complicated relationships in her life, as well as Connell’s feelings of insecurity and desire to be liked and have friends.
This book was an amazing and inspirational read because it was nuanced in exploring the realities of growing up to be your own person while struggling with your home life and school life. The author put a lot of emphasis on the character’s flaws which allowed me to connect as a reader because I was able to understand the beauty in people’s imperfections. Overall, Marianne and Connell learned how to navigate their own paths and were able to stay connected, providing emotional support to each other through tough times.
I would recommend this book to all young adults. It explores mature themes of adolescence that I think will be appealing and moving for young adults. I also think it will help readers reflect on the experiences they’ve had, as well as recognize their personal growth as individuals and those who helped them get to where they are today.
Add a comment to: Teen Book Review: Normal People by Sally Rooney