Obsessed. I think the right word is obsessed.
To Kill a Mockingbird has been one of my all time favourite novels. And when Jasper Jones was recommended to me as an Australian version, I absolutely had to grab myself a copy and have a read. So yes, I am obsessed with the plot, the writing, the story and the little twists and turns that the exquisite writing of Craig Silvey brings.
It's 1965, there's a missing girl in a small Australian country town whirling with rumours and secrets.
Widely described as a coming of age novel, you can feel the innocence ripped away from Charlie Bucktin as he is taken on a horrifying night time adventure by town outcast Jasper Jones.
The plot was unexpected and takes surprising turns along the way. Our protagonist had to navigate his way through mystery, romance, loss and hatred. I loved the literary references to Mark Twain and I revelled in young Charlie's love for reading and writing.
After I finished reading Jasper Jones, I realised it was released the same year I read To Kill A Mockingbird for the first time! 2009! Not sure if its a coincidence, as To Kill a Mockingbird has been one of my all time favourite reads. But I can truly see a strong connotation between the two books and I can feel how the underlying themes are similar. I also loved that Charlie referenced Atticus Finch multiple times throughout the novel in his decision making. What would Atticus do?
This novel is easy to read. You'll just breeze through the pages whilst navigating the themes of racism, fear, secrets and rumours.
I am looking forward to watching the movie of Jasper Jones which is out now on SBS on Demand until August 5th.
Trigger Warning: suicide, death, racism, war
Completed on: 6th July 2021
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