ARC Review: The Minnow by Diana Sweeney

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Book summary:

Tom survived a devastating flood that claimed the lives of her sister and parents. Now she lives with Bill in his old shed by the lake. But it’s time to move out—Tom is pregnant with Bill’s baby.
Jonah lets her move in with him. Mrs Peck gives her the Fishmaster Super Series tackle box. Nana is full of gentle good advice and useful sayings.
And in her longing for what is lost, Tom talks to fish: Oscar the carp in the pet shop, little Sarah catfish who might be her sister, an unhelpful turtle in a tank at the maternity ward. And the minnow.
The Minnow is a moving and powerful coming of age story with a whimsical element that belies the heartbreaking truth of grief and loss. Tom is a character you will never forget. 

         Is it due to air or food or something else, but Aussie people really know their way with words. I was lucky enough to get to read some really amazing books from that part of the world, and we all know how much I love Melina Marchetta. Luckily I can tell you that The Minnow is not an exception.

         Filled with beautiful words and weird way of storytelling this one was hard to put down. Even though, I was completely lost at moments and even now after finishing it I don't think I understand everything I enjoyed reading it. Somehow I feel like the author herself wanted it to be this unusual and open to interpretation, which I totally approve. Some things seem better in our heads than they really are.

        So, we get to hear Tom's story here. First thing you should know about Tom is that she is pregnant and very young. It's not a combo I usually can get over with easily, but due to some things in this story (which I won't tell you - you won't get any spoilers from me) I really wanted to hug her and I truly hoped that she will find her safe heaven. Jonah on the other hand was that sweet little boy I wish all had as friend. Now from this you might assume some things I must tell you that you're wrong. It's nothing like it seems and it's sadly more realistic and cruel.

       So while reading about teen pregnancies I have that issue with wild girls sleeping all around, but as Tom is nothing like that I didn't have any problems there. I, however, did have problems with the community and their behavior towards it. Firstly her grandmother and the way people behaved. This is a very small community and people tuned blind eye more than they should.

        Still, this book was probably the most realistic I have read that deals with such issue. But it doesn't mean that I wasn't angry and frustrated. I still am and truth to be told the last sentence from the blurb is very true.

        This might be tricky but I would recommend this one to all of you how loved The Lovely Bones, as to me both give off similar vibe.

Rating: 3.5 stars.

Until the next time,

*NOTE: Copy of this book was kindly provided by he publisher, Text Publishing. Thank you! All opinions are personal.