By Jandy Nelson
4 Stars
Jandy Nelson's I'll Give You the Sun is a well crafted novel that tells the story of twins Jude and Noah who are very close until tragedy drives them apart. Nelson uses a unique narrative style that tells the story alternating from the perspective of both Noah and Jude at ages thirteen and sixteen respectively. The plot is one of love, loss, and self-discovery.
One of the most interesting and compelling aspects of this novel is its writing style. Nelson's vibrant writing is able to depict the intensity and artistic traits of the characters. The dual narrative structure adds to this and allows the readers to see the contrasting yet interconnectedness between the twins. This ultimately adds depth and complexity to the story.
Being the two main protagonists in the story, both Jude and Noah are very well developed. Noah's artistic passion and Jude's struggle with guilt and identity create a very compelling dynamic that drive the plot. Their respective journeys of growth and reconciliation invoke many emotions within the reader that draws the reader in with great attention.
However, the novel's poetic and metaphorical language may not appeal to all. Some may find the novel is too "on the nose" and makes it difficult for the reader to think for themselves. It is also important to note that there are some quite mature moments in the book that would absolutely not be appropriate for young readers.
Putting its negative points aside, Jandy Nelson's I'll Give You the Sun is a great novel for those who enjoy character-driven stories with imaginative language. It is particularly well suited for teens and those who enjoy artistic expression, self-expression, open-mindedness, and much more.
Reviewed by Aayan
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