The Way Light Bends by Cordelia Jensen - ESSENTIAL

The Way Light Bends by Cordelia Jensen.  396 pages. Philomel (Penguin), 2018. $16. 

Language:  Mature content: PG (LGBT) Violence: G

BUYING ADVISORY:  HS – ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

This is the story of Holly and Linc. Two sisters. One adopted (Holly) and one born to the parents shortly after Holly was adopted. The two girls are just months apart in age and think of themselves as twins. The family focus is on academic achievement and Holly can do no wrong. Linc is creative and artistic and loves photography. She is gifted with photography and in her artistic approach to everything. The more she focuses on the artistic the more she perceives her parents’ displeasure. Her mother is especially hard on her, and especially disproving of what Linc excels at.

This was a fast read, written all in verse. Linc’s feelings shine through, with few words. I could not help but feel for Linc and my heart ached for her. One day she overhears a conversation between her parents and she is crushed.

Linc’s story will stay with you for a long time, as will the way her family finally face their problems and deal with and work out their issues. It shows how it is possible for a family to right wrongs and work through their problems and accept one another for who they are. New York City is vividly described and I learned so much about Central Park, things that I did not know and had not heard of. Fascinating.

I highly recommend this book, especially to students and parents that have a hard time appreciating one another. I will recommend this book to students who feel that they are not appreciated and valued, as well as do a lot of book talks with this book. I will give a copy of this book to my counseling department, too.

Reviewer: Ellen-Anita – Library Teacher.