Review of Dear Manny by Nic Stone
I often find myself captivated by the exploration of youth and identity in literature, but Nic Stone’s Dear Manny truly hit me in an emotional crescendo. As the final installment in a series that has tackled the complexities of racism and privilege with such unflinching honesty, it stood as a poignant reminder of the vital conversations we need to engage in today. From the blurb alone, I was drawn in, knowing I was about to embark on a profound journey of self-examination and understanding.
At the heart of Dear Manny is Jared, a character first introduced in Dear Martin. Now a white college student, Jared, whose well-meaning intentions often blind him to the privileges he holds, finds himself in the difficult position of running for class president on an antiracism platform. The arrival of Dylan—a sharp, self-assured Black student—shakes his understanding of activism to its core. What I found so gripping was how Dylan challenges Jared’s self-image; she doesn’t let him off the hook for his perceived “good deeds.” This dynamic opens up dialogues about allyship, privilege, and the complexities of social justice, and it was hard not to feel a mixture of admiration and discomfort as I traversed the pages.
Stone’s writing style remains elegantly accessible yet imbued with depth. The pacing felt just right; it allowed me to soak in the rich themes while still propelling the plot forward. The narrative cleverly alternates between present-day challenges and Jared’s intimate letters to his deceased best friend, Manny, each missive dripping with raw emotion. These letters serve as more than just an outlet for Jared’s guilt; they connect the dots of his journey, exposing his internal struggles with identity, grief, and accountability.
One quote that stuck with me is when Jared reflects on the idea of responsibility: "You can’t fight for change without being ready to face what you’re fighting against." This line echoes the essence of the book: that understanding privilege and taking action is a messy, often uncomfortable journey, but one that is absolutely necessary. Stone doesn’t shy away from the uncomfortable, and it is this commitment that elevates her work in YA literature.
I chose to experience this book as both an audiobook and a read, intertwining the two for an even more immersive experience. The narration was exceptional, bringing the characters to life and heightening the emotional stakes. If you’re someone who enjoys being swept up in the cadence of a story while also having those poignant moments underscored by a powerful voice, I highly recommend this method.
In closing, Dear Manny is not just a book for young adults; it’s a compelling read for anyone who appreciates thought-provoking narratives about justice, identity, and friendship. I found it difficult to step away from the characters, as they felt like companions on a journey that challenged my own beliefs and prepared me for hard conversations around privilege and allyship. Whether you’re a long-time follower of Stone’s work or new to her resonant voice, this novel will undoubtedly leave a mark on your heart and mind. Thank you, Nic Stone, for another important contribution to contemporary literature that I will carry with me long after closing the final chapter.