A Map of the Known World by Lisa Ann Sandell
Release Date: April 15, 2009
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Age Group: Young Adults
Pages: 272
Cora Bradley dreams of escape. Ever since her reckless older brother, Nate, died in a car crash, Cora has felt suffocated by her small town and high school. She seeks solace in drawing beautiful maps, envisioning herself in exotic locales. When Cora begins to fall for Damian, the handsome, brooding boy who was in the car with Nate the night he died, she uncovers her brother's secret artistic life and realizes she had more in common with him than she ever imagined. With stunning lyricism, Sandell weaves a tale of one girl's journey through the redemptive powers of art, friendship, and love.
The real reason I picked this one up: I dig the cover. Hadn’t read anything by Sandell, but I had heard good things about Song of the Sparrow. Really awesome cover + good vibes from a recent book = maybe I should read this one!
Another great novel. I’ve been reading so many lately! A Map of the Known World deals with grief, first love, family, and coming of age. It’s apparent almost from page one that this family is suffering. Each one dealing with their loss in different ways, individually. I suppose you could say this is a story of healing, because ultimately it is.
I really enjoyed reading Sandell’s writing. It was simply beautiful, utterly captivating. It was just as expressive as an artist... her novel was her canvas and her paintbrush her words. Corny, I know, but how can I not reference art when it is so prominently displayed in this novel.
Cora’s character unquestionably embodied the awkward transition from middle school to high school. I recall feeling the same awkwardness. And Sandell perfectly captures the emotions of Cora’s despair with her parents and the pain of an ostracized teen, there isn’t anything quite like being ditched by your best friend.
The plot was intriguing, maybe a little bit slow in areas. The relationship between Cora and Damian was slow to develop as well. It was an interesting dynamic, falling for your big brother’s best friend maybe somewhat typical, but falling for your dead brother’s best friend, now that’s a unique take.
The ending was inspiring. While everything wasn’t resolved you can see the start of the process taking shape. Excellent novel, I will most likely continue to pick up Sandell’s novels.