Review of 13 Ways to Say Goodbye by Amber McBride
Sometimes a book just calls to you, doesn’t it? For me, it was the title—13 Ways to Say Goodbye—that sparked my curiosity. When I discovered that Amber McBride’s novel is a poignant tale woven in verse, I felt compelled to dive in, especially given how beautifully poetry can capture the complexities of loss and love. This book doesn’t just tell a story; it invites you into a world of grief, healing, and burgeoning self-discovery, particularly against the charming backdrop of Paris.
At the heart of McBride’s narrative is Nina, a young girl grappling with an indescribable ache after the death of her sister, Lily. To escape the suffocating atmosphere at home, Nina attends an art camp in Paris, aiming to reconnect with her Aunt Renee and escape her haunting memories. But as she embarks on the adventure, it becomes clear that she isn’t just on a physical journey—she’s traversing the rocky terrain of her emotions. The juxtaposition of her grief with the exhilaration of exploring Paris is beautifully executed, with each landmark feeling like a character in itself.
Nina’s relationship with Sylvie, the daughter of her aunt’s friend, adds an exciting layer to the narrative. What begins as an uncomfortable partnership blossoms into a sweet, tender exploration of first crushes amid a backdrop of art and culture. McBride captures Nina’s confusion and excitement about her feelings for Sylvie in a way that feels authentic and relatable, especially for young readers navigating their own identities. One memorable moment that resonated with me is when Nina learns to embrace her feelings, culminating in a delicate and heartfelt kiss that not only signifies a budding romance but also illustrates Nina’s courage to step into her own life—one filled with both art and love.
The writing style is mesmerizing, with McBride’s poetic narrative flowing naturally, making even profound themes accessible. Each verse is infused with a sense of loss and hope, punctuated by vivid imagery of Parisian life. For example, when Nina finds herself in one of her sister’s favorite spots, it felt as if I were transported there with her—breathing in the bittersweetness of memory and the essence of healing.
That said, there were moments that felt a tad unrealistic, particularly how Nina’s parents processed their grief. The portrayal of them engulfed in their work often overshadowed their role as caregivers. While it serves as a dramatic tension in the story, I found myself wishing for a more nuanced representation of grief—one where healing occurs through family dialogue and support, rather than silence. Yet, perhaps that’s McBride’s point: to show how loss can lead to isolation, even among loved ones.
Overall, 13 Ways to Say Goodbye is a touching read that will resonate with anyone who has experienced loss, particularly younger audiences seeking stories similar to those by authors like Condie or Warga. It’s a beautiful reminder of the bittersweet nature of life, love, and the healing power of art. Finishing this book left me with a sense of catharsis; it’s one of those stories that lingers long after the last page is turned. If you’re a fan of poignant narratives that explore both sorrow and the tender moments of growing up, this book might just be your next favorite find.