Book Review: Every Exquisite Thing

 

I will say this early to everyone who will read my review: You should absolutely read this!

Nanette O'Hare is a goody-two-shoes. She's a straight-A student, a star athlete and a dutiful daughter. She does everything that society expects her to be. Until one day her favourite professor gave her a book entitled The Bubblegum Reaper. Upon reading, this unveils her hidden self and tries to explore who she really was - befriending the reclusive author, falling in love with a young troubled poet and rebels to the society that controls her.

Why did I like the novel?

The story: It is very moving and speaks to you thoroughly. In one way or another, you can relate to the book as this story tells a story that we may have experienced. We can say that we have been there in the story all along. It's a YA/coming-of-age story that cuts out all the cheesy stuff. The story showcases how it can be hard to know oneself in a society that kicks you in what you have to be - how hard to be a misfit. It shows you that sometimes, it's ok not to be okay. Its melodramatic tone can make you cry but it does give you hope and fight for yourself.

The characters: I love all of the characters. they are all fleshed out without overdoing it. You can feel that you are walking in their shoes. I love how the characters developed through time. I really love Nanette and her struggles towards knowing oneself.

The writing and delivery: Matthew Quick is a master of words and storytelling and it shows in this book. The book starts off on its premise right off the bat - no shitty introduction of the catalyst that will move the story. The delivery of the story is quick but not rushed - it has the right amount of pacing, cutting all the unnecessary plot and being very direct, that will make the readers enjoy the reading progress. I love the metaphors that have been used in the story: scrabbles and words being compared to life and a lot more. There are quotes that are very moving and will leave a mark to you. One quote that struck me the most: '' Just because you’re good at something doesn’t mean you have to do it.'' The author concocts the right blend of emotions. He knows where to insert the right emotion and he did it effectively. Overall, I can say that this is book is very well-written.

I've been a fan of Matthew Quick ever since I've read Silver Linings Playbook and I've been on a constant hunt to find and read his works. I'm so glad that I saw this copy when visiting the bookstore and never regretted buying it. like what I said earlier, I recommend this book to everyone and will definitely reread this masterpiece.