Ann Napolitano’s Dear Edward, a 2020 “Read with Jenna” pick, is a powerful and profoundly moving novel that explores the aftermath of unimaginable tragedy. The story centers on Edward Adler, a twelve-year-old boy who becomes the sole survivor of a catastrophic plane crash. Napolitano, known for her sensitive character studies and emotionally charged narratives, crafts a tale that is as much about loss as it is about the resilience of the human spirit. Her ability to delve into the complexities of grief and trauma, combined with a compelling narrative, makes this novel a standout.

The narrative unfolds across two timelines: the period leading up to the ill-fated flight and the subsequent years following the crash. We are introduced to Edward and his family, including his older brother Jordan, a vibrant and deeply sensitive teenager. The plane, filled with a diverse group of passengers, becomes a microcosm of life itself, each character harboring their own hopes, fears, and secrets. Napolitano masterfully builds tension as the reader becomes increasingly aware of the impending disaster, making the actual crash even more devastating. The setting shifts dramatically after the crash to Edward’s new life with his aunt and uncle. This new world is one where he is constantly reminded of his loss, and forced to navigate a life completely different from his previous one. This creates a sense of deep melancholy and reflection.

Edward is the heart of the story, and Napolitano’s portrayal of his character is nothing short of remarkable. He is not just a survivor; he is a child grappling with the weight of an experience no one should ever endure. His relationship with his aunt, Dee Dee, and uncle, John, is complex, marked by both love and unspoken grief. The author also does an amazing job in showing the development of Edward’s relationship with Shay, a neighbor who also experienced profound loss. These relationships help reveal the different ways people cope with grief and how these bonds help them heal. The way these characters interact with Edward, both the ones who understand and the ones who are baffled by him, adds depth and authenticity to the story. https://www.amazon.com/s?k=9781984854803&tag=verified0ea-20

The themes of grief, identity, and the fragility of life are woven throughout the novel. Napolitano explores how trauma can reshape a person’s sense of self and their place in the world. The narrative delves into how survivors are perceived and treated, and the often unspoken expectations placed upon them. I found the way Napolitano explored the complexities of the human spirit, its capacity for both great suffering and incredible strength, to be especially moving. As someone who has experienced profound loss, I found myself deeply connecting with Edward’s journey and the way he tried to navigate his new world. The book is also a beautiful exploration of how human connections can help people heal, and the importance of remembering our loved ones.

Napolitano’s writing is both lyrical and precise. Her prose flows effortlessly, and she has a remarkable ability to capture the emotional nuances of her characters. The dialogue is realistic and engaging, further enhancing the authenticity of the characters. The book does not shy away from difficult emotions. It allows the reader to experience the full spectrum of grief, from crushing sadness to moments of quiet resilience. The pacing is also well-managed, switching between timelines in a way that keeps the reader engaged and invested in Edward’s story. The narrative technique allows us to see the world through Edward’s eyes, making his pain and his growth feel immediate and real.

Dear Edward is not an easy read, but it is a profoundly rewarding one. It is a story about the resilience of the human spirit, the power of connection, and the importance of honoring those we have lost. It’s a book that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page, prompting reflection on the nature of life, loss, and the possibility of healing. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys character-driven stories that explore the complexities of human emotion. Readers who appreciate books like The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold or Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng, which delve into themes of loss and family dynamics, will likely find Dear Edward to be a compelling read. https://www.amazon.com/s?k=9781984854803&tag=verified0ea-20

The structure of the novel, alternating between the past and the present, enhances the reader’s understanding of Edward’s journey. We see the vibrant life he had before the crash, which makes the pain of his loss even more acute. The author uses the airplane crash as a symbol of the fragility of life, reminding us that our lives can change in an instant. This aspect of the story is particularly poignant and forces the reader to confront the randomness of tragedy. The way Napolitano intertwines the lives of the passengers on the plane and Edward’s life after the crash is brilliant, highlighting the interconnectedness of human experience.

The novel doesn’t shy away from the difficult questions about why some live and others die, but it doesn’t try to offer easy answers. Instead, it focuses on the human experience of grief and survival, allowing readers to grapple with their own questions about life and loss. The book’s emotional core comes from the relationships Edward develops with those around him. Dee Dee, for example, is struggling with her own grief and guilt, and her relationship with Edward is far from perfect. Yet, these imperfect bonds show how flawed people can find a way to care for each other, even through immense pain. The story is a testament to the power of human connection to help us move forward. https://www.amazon.com/s?k=9781984854803&tag=verified0ea-20

Napolitano’s novel is a reminder that life can change in an instant, and it is how we respond to those changes that truly defines us. The book’s lasting impact lies in its ability to show that even in the face of profound loss, there is still hope, and the possibility of finding light again. It’s a story about learning to live with grief, about building a new life, and about remembering those we have loved. The book doesn’t provide easy answers, but it provides something far more valuable: a space to reflect on the complexities of life and loss. This is a story that will resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with grief or loss, reminding us that we are not alone in our experiences. This novel is a true testament to the power of human resilience and the enduring strength of love. https://www.amazon.com/s?k=9781984854803&tag=verified0ea-20