Review of The Sun is Also a Star by Nicola Yoon
As an avid reader of young adult fiction, I was particularly drawn to The Sun is Also a Star because of its captivating premise: a whirlwind romance set against the backdrop of a looming crisis. The story intertwines the lives of two characters, Natasha and Daniel, who meet for what seems like the briefest moment in bustling New York City. Given that I’m fond of stories that explore love intertwined with societal issues, I couldn’t resist diving into this one.
The Story and its Characters
In this novel, Natasha is a grounded girl who values science over fate, and she’s facing the heartbreaking possibility of her family being deported to Jamaica within twelve hours. Meanwhile, Daniel is a dreamy teenager caught under the heavy expectations of being the “good son.” Their opposing worldviews create a magnetic tension that draws readers into their journey. I found Natasha’s pragmatic approach to life refreshing, particularly against the romantic backdrop of Daniel’s idealism.
One thing that stands out is how Yoon beautifully captures the essence of chance and choice. The book explores the question of what might happen in the span of a single day when life’s unpredictability puts everything at stake. The alternating perspectives of Natasha and Daniel provide a rich layer to the narrative, making it a compelling and immersive experience.
Positives and Drawbacks
One of the notable strengths of the novel is its pacing. The author seamlessly shifts between moments filled with humor, heartbreak, and existential musings, which kept me engaged throughout. As readers, we get an intimate glimpse into the characters’ thoughts and life events, from their family dynamics to heart-wrenching decisions. I definitely agree with the readers who praised Yoon’s writing style—it’s beautifully crafted.
However, I did find certain aspects of the story slightly underdeveloped. For instance, while I loved the scientific approach Natasha brings, I wished some of the scientific facts had been woven into the narrative more organically. Additionally, the pacing also sometimes felt rushed towards the end as the plot concluded, making me crave a bit more depth in certain areas. Even so, the gripping premise held my attention.
Another point that resonated with me, echoed by other readers, is how the book addresses the themes of identity and belonging. Natasha’s struggles with her impending deportation hit hard; it reflects real societal issues many face today. Many YA novels touch on themes of romance and young love, but this one digs deeper into emotional battles that resonate outside of adolescent angst.
Conclusion
Ultimately, The Sun is Also a Star exceeded my expectations in many aspects, crafting a tale that is not just about love but about navigating life’s unpredictable paths. Though there were moments where I wished for more depth and slower pacing, the overall experience was a memorable one, encapsulating the thrill and gravity of love, fate, and choice.
I would recommend this book not only to fans of Everything, Everything, but to anyone interested in poignant love stories that also tackle significant issues of identity and belonging. This is a beautifully crafted novel that truly lives up to its title—sometimes the sun shines bright just when you least expect it.
Discover a love story that transcends time and fate in The Sun Is Also a Star. >>