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The Museum of Broken Things by Lauren Draper

Despite being excited from the moment I read the blurb, it took me a few chapters to warm up to The Museum of Broken Things. It was worth the unfamiliarity though (because what’s a book if not familiar and safe), and I have a lot of ‘loves’ coming up. I loved the setting. The small coastal town where everyone knows everyone contrasted with the new arrival of Reece (protagonist) and her family. I wouldn’t say the town of Hamilton is a quaint little town, but it’s without a doubt quirky and unique. I loved Reece’s relationship with Hamilton. She was reeling from her array of tragedies, so her coldness was understandable, and wholeheartedly relatable. Now, I haven’t relocated towns or anything, but I know first hand how lonely it could be when there is no one you can talk to at school, when it’s just you and your problems, and everything seems like foreign terrain. When Reece found friends, I was joyous for her, but it made me wonder when I’ll find somewhere where I belong.

The Museum of Broken Things, I feel, is a tale of loss and how to cope with it, moving forward, acceptance, forgiveness and friendship. I found I could empathise with Reece, connect with her fears, feelings and thoughts. The exploration of loss and healing touched me, the play with memories and sentimental objects intriguing.

I want to compare this book with a symphony. First, there is the tragic beginning; picking up the pieces, loneliness, regret. Slowly, the tune turns. I hear hope. Instead of a lonely violin, I begin to hear more instruments, more voices.

The Museum of Broken Things touched me. Reece’s voice is unique and strong. She is intelligent, and I feel privileged to see her transformation.

This was a story of healing, and in turn placed a content calm in me. I’ve enjoyed this book, and I’d recommend this stunning debut to anyone, whether you need a friend, a remedy or a guiding star.

#lauren drapper #yafiction #young adult #books #reading #book review #book blog #museum of broken things #australia #small town romance #recommend #book suggestions

[ya-book-blog]

What I Like About Me by Jenna Guillaume

This book had me gripped from the start. It was witty and funny and resonated with the voice of a 16-year-old in today’s society. What I Like About Me explored many themes, ranging from self-confidence, family dynamics, and societal norms to friendship, acceptance and courage. I found this novel to carry significant power, advocating and delving into many messages that deserve to be talked about. Right from the beginning, I have found a connection with Maisie, the narrator, on an emotional level. She was going through the stuff I’ve gone though, and seeing her positive outlook on the issues that many teenagers face has given me strength to do the same.

I loved the unique format that the novel was set in. The idea of a ‘discovery journal’ has shown how Maisie has grown over the summer, how her perspectives have changed, and her priorities as well. The light notes of a summer romance have given me a breath of fresh air. Sure, I love romance, but it’s nice to have have something else in the mix. I’ve found What I Like About Me to be a fun mix of key messages, romance, and a cosy setting I’d love to visit.

One thing I’ve taken out of this novel is that it’s okay not to be perfect. It’s okay not to have your career or uni goals sorted. It’s okay to have turbulent friendships. It’s okay to not fit the moulds and stereotypes of society. It’s okay to be different, weird, crazy, as long as you are happy and okay with that.

This was a wonderful read. I would recommend it to anybody, whether they’re twelve or twenty. The themes explored in What I Like About Me are relevant and need to be talked about, to ensure the world is a prejudice-free, safe, happy place for every person.

#whatilikeaboutme #jennaguillaume #bookreview #book #yabook #youngadult #youngadultnovels #bookblog #review #youngadultbookreview #yabookreview #australia #aussieyafiction #aussieauthor #summer #summerholidays #friendship #family #selflove