The Girl Who Fell from the Sky
Published by: Algonquin Books
Published on: February, 2010
Page Count: 264
Genre: Literary Fiction
My Reading Format: Review copy sent to me by the publisher upon request.
Available Formats: Hardcover, eBook, audiobook
My Review
The Girl Who Fell from the Sky tells the story of Rachel Morse, the sole survivor of her Danish mother’s maternal psychosis that ended in the deaths of her mother and her siblings. She is sent to live with her African American grandmother and aunt. While they love her, her grandmother especially is wary of her mixed ethnicity and any influence Rachel’s mother’s mental illness may have on her. Growing up with the weight of her mother’s actions and her mixed heritage is challenging. Is she responsible for the sins of her mother? How can she find her way to herself when there is no one else out there like her?
This is a wonderful novel, but I have absolutely no idea how to review it. It tells the story of Rachel and her mother from various viewpoints, helping to paint a more complete picture. I liked how Rachel’s mom lived on through her subtlety and most significantly through her AA slogans. Rachel’s life isn’t the only one changed forever as a result of that afternoon at the top of their Chicago high rise. Brick, a child who witnessed Rachel’s brother fall from the sky, was also a victim of sorts. Both are survivors, though. That’s what makes this book so powerful.
My Final Thoughts
I thought this novel was an interesting character study that was both honest and respectful of person. It brings to light the plight of mothers who are mentally ill, bi-racial children, learning to make adult choices, and growing up despite overwhelming odds. I may not be able to articulate just why very well, but I do recommend The Girl Who Fell From the Sky for these reasons and more. It is well deserving of the Bellwether Prize for Fiction.
Other Voices
She Is Too Fond of Books
The Happy Nappy Bookseller
Amy’s Book Obsession
Wordbird
Well, you can’t tell that you struggled writing this! But I whole-heartedly sympathize with the challenge. It seems just about everything I read causes me review angst. I think I’m fighting off a writer’s block of sorts. Anyway, I digress. you have successfully made me want to read the book. Don’t know if that will ever happen because I’m into it up to my knees, but if the book landed in my path I would pick it up!
I enjoyed your reveiw. I would like to read this one. I have seen it around and honestly, I understand it better after reading your review. So thanks!
Wow, it sounds like that book would give me a lot to think about. I think I need to move it up in my TBR pile.
I saw this one at the library last week, and I should’ve snatched it up!
I really want to read this book, but I’m waiting for it come out in paperback. It’s not available in ebook form (boo!).
I’ve seen this book around and it’s received some great reviews, but I’m still not sure I should be reading it. Character studies can be too much for me sometimes.
I loved this book as well and linked to your great review!