Say a Little Prayer: A Heartfelt Exploration of Faith and Identity
Jenna Voris has long been on my radar as a must-read author, and her latest release, Say a Little Prayer, solidifies that status in a delightful way. Having thoroughly enjoyed her earlier work, Every Time You Hear That Song, I approached this new novel with eager anticipation. In a world that often feels divided by doctrine and identity, Voris bravely navigates the turbulent waters of religion and queerness, crafting a story that resonates deeply.
At the heart of Say a Little Prayer is Riley, a teenager grappling with her sexuality in a conservative religious community. Her journey begins against the backdrop of trauma—her sister Hannah publicly humiliated by Pastor Young, the powerful figure of Pleasant Hills Baptist Church. This shameful incident creates a chasm between Riley and her friends, Ben and Julia, who are Pastor Young’s children. It’s a compelling setup that sets the stage for Riley’s internal struggle, as she finds herself torn between loyalty and self-discovery.
When Riley is sent to Pleasant Hills youth camp as a punishment—a seemingly ironic twist of fate—her narrative takes a turn. The decision to write essays on the seven deadly sins as a form of rebellion against Pastor Young is both audacious and cathartic. Being immersed in the camp environment, her relationship with Julia evolves beautifully. Their friendship, by turns innocent and fraught with an electrifying tension, captures the essence of first love that people yearn for but often fear to embrace. It’s this exploration of intimacy amidst conflict that really resonated with me.
Voris’s writing style is refreshingly authentic. There’s a candidness in her narrative that perfectly captures the chaotic emotions of youth, deftly balancing humor and weighty themes. The pacing kept me engaged throughout; I found myself laughing out loud at Riley’s witty repartees while simultaneously feeling a heavy weight in my chest during more sorrowful scenes. Voris’s ability to delve into the complexities of faith without coming across as preachy is commendable. Instead, she fosters a thoughtful dialogue about fear versus acceptance—a theme that will likely echo with many readers.
A particularly noteworthy moment for me was when Riley questions why so many remain silent in the face of Pastor Young’s toxic brand of religion. It’s an inquiry that beautifully illustrates the internal conflict many experience with authority figures, especially when it comes to matters as profound as faith and identity. Voris encourages a critical look at the structures we often take for granted, prompting reflections on personal experiences that hit home.
While the ending may leave some wanting more definitive closure, it feels realistic, a reflection of real life where not everything is neatly wrapped up.
Say a Little Prayer is a poignant read for young adults and everyone who has ever felt caught between love and societal expectations. Voris has penned a powerful narrative that offers comfort, understanding, and hope to LGBTQ+ youth still searching for their place in a complex world. I found myself resonating deeply with Riley’s journey, reminding me of the importance of self-acceptance amidst adversity.
In closing, I highly recommend this book for anyone exploring themes of identity, faith, and friendship. Jenna Voris’s talent shines bright, and I’m excited to see where she takes us next.