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Category: Helen

Our Little Secret by Edward Kay & Mikhael Klassen-Kay

This book grabs the reader by the throat. It opens with a textbook case example of "in medias res". Truly, the opening sentences are among the best I’ve ever read, for any age level, ever.

Our Little Secret reveals said secret in the final words of the book – BANG! I honestly, did not see it coming. I believe it’s the reason the book was written, in the first place.

Mind you, please don’t just read the last page. Please treat yourself to the whole thing. Why? We have a fantastic beginning and a extraordinary close. In between, there is a mystery which, full disclosure, I did unravel, but I am very proud of myself about that. The story is relentless in expanding mystery conventions. Like the rule for improv theatre, the plot constantly says, “Yes, and…” More than a whodunnit – although it is that – it is also an intriguing “whydunnit”.

So, to review we have… a great opener, great final curtain, great plot. The protagonists are also remarkable, not the least because there are three of them - well developed, flawed, presented in first person. The interactions of Chloe, Jordan and Nick deepen the mysteries, suspense, and characterization building in the other two. Books told from several points of view sometimes require the reader to page back, “who is this again? Who’s talking?” Not here. Their voices are distinct. Also, I grew to really care about each of them, and was terrified for most of the book, for all their sakes.

Other boxes this book checks, besides what we’ve explored so far; there is a neurodivergent protagonist, a trans protagonist, and a BIPOC protagonist. The timing of the transition of the protagonist is critical to plot development, in several ways. Intricate framing of the plot and characters build beautifully. I’m running out of adjectives! In short, one of the best books I’ve read, for any age, ever. In many ways it is a peerless book. Oh, and, one more plus… it is Canadian.

Young Adult Fiction pr8324219