GOING THE DISTANCE
There’s no doubt about it. The Wicker King is my favourite read of 2023.
The first thing I fell in love with is the book’s structure – one page per chapter. Everything happens so quickly once you start reading. The only way I can describe it is a “blink and you finish” experience! Every chapter delivered its own big revelation. I was glued to the story and compulsively turned every page. It’s not only the words but also mixed media, with images of notes in class or school documents, all of which added to the fun.
The second thing I liked was the relationship between August and Jack. As it grew on the pages, it grew in my heart. It was a very slow burn, and it gave me the perfect YA coming of age/queer awakening experience I needed. Not only was it sweet, but also dark in all the right places.
Which brings me to the final thing I enjoyed about this book – the way it explores mental illness. Those of us who struggle with our mental health always come back to the same thing: would those who love us be strong enough, patient enough, and willing enough to love and care for us if our condition got worse?
The book basically asks the question: What would you do for someone you love? How far would you go to help them?
The answer: You would do anything. You would go to the ends of the earth and beyond.
That part of the novel was handled with care, especially at the end with the author’s thoughtful note.
To me, this was one of the most beautiful (and darkest) love stories I’ve ever read. Parts of it reminded me of The Song of Achilles, but better. It also reminded me of Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe, These Violent Delights, along with vibes of The Raven Boys. For me, that was the cherry on top.
I would honestly recommend this novel to anyone who likes reading about mental illness (or if it triggers you, skip this book). If you like a fast-going coming-of-age story, a queer story, a modern love tragedy, then this is for you. Enjoy.
PS I am looking forward to reading more books from this author.
Reviewed by Violeta Nedkova
