Book Review: Dear Edward by Ann Napolitano
When I first stumbled upon Dear Edward by Ann Napolitano, the premise instantly intrigued me: a young boy, the sole survivor of a tragic plane crash, grappling not only with the weight of his loss but also with the expectations of recovery. As someone who often seeks narratives that explore resilience and hope amidst overwhelming sorrow, I felt an undeniable pull toward Edward’s story.
At the heart of this heartrending novel is twelve-year-old Edward, whose life forever alters after he loses his parents and older brother in a catastrophic flight that claims the lives of 191 people. Now living with his aunt and uncle, the journey he embarks on is as much about understanding grief as it is about reclaiming joy. Napolitano paints a poignant portrait of not just Edward but also his relationships, especially the unyielding support he finds in Shay, his lively neighbor. Their friendship is beautifully layered, filled with both tender moments and the candid honesty that helps Edward navigate his new reality.
The structure of Dear Edward alternates between Edward’s present struggles and the backstories of select passengers from the ill-fated flight. While this technique is compelling, it occasionally left me feeling uneasy. The intimate glimpses into the passengers’ lives generated a heaviness I didn’t anticipate—one that at times overshadowed Edward’s healing process. It felt almost like a weight, pulling me further into sadness instead of letting me bask in Edward’s unfolding resilience. I wondered if a different approach could have started with these characters before pivoting to Edward, creating a more fluid transition into his world.
Napolitano’s writing has a neutral tone that sometimes makes it hard to fully connect with characters beyond Edward and Shay. While the emotional distance lends an air of realism, it occasionally dampened the effect of some crucial moments. I craved more depth in the interactions, which sometimes felt surface-level and detached, especially compared to the rawness of Edward’s internal battle. However, as Edward’s journey progresses, the grayness slowly lifts, revealing a world gradually illuminated by hope.
What truly stole the show for me was Shay. Her unwavering love and support serve as a lighthouse guiding Edward through his darkest days. Reading about their camaraderie not only brought warmth to the narrative but also highlighted the profound impact friendship can have in healing. Edward’s journey, although long and painful, showcased a resilience that left me in awe.
Despite my initial conflicts regarding the pacing and structure, Dear Edward blossomed into an inspirational and uplifting testament to the power of love, friendship, and the human spirit. I found myself wrestling with the book’s rating, oscillating between a 3 and a 4. Ultimately, I rounded up to 4 because the themes lingered in my thoughts for days, reminding me of the resilience that lies within us all.
This book will resonate with readers who enjoy poignant stories of survival, personal growth, and the complexities of grief. If you’re in search of a heartfelt narrative that navigates the darkest valleys, while always holding a glimmer of hope, Dear Edward is a journey worth taking. Ultimately, this book impacted me deeply, leaving me grateful for the gentle reminders to cherish every moment and the connections we forge along the way.