Review of Me Inside
- Claudia Angelucci
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Review of Me Inside
"Me Inside" by Martha Miller is a concoction of lesbian suspense and romance, stirred with mystery and garnished with drama. It opens with Hemingway's wise words: "The world breaks everyone, and afterward, many are strong at the broken places."
Our young narrator, Jeannie, guides us through this tumultuous tale. Abandoned by her troubled mother and left with a father fresh out of prison, Jeannie’s early years are far from ordinary. Yet, this unfamiliar father turns out to be a loving and hardworking man who fills her life with laughter, warmth, and wisdom, while the mystery of her mother's absence casts a long shadow.
At fifteen, tragedy strikes as her father is murdered, thrusting Jeannie into the care of her lesbian grandmother, Sylvia. Teaming up with her best friend, Ruthie, Jeannie plunges into unraveling the mystery behind her father's death. Along the way, she encounters Legs, a troubled foster girl and talented basketball player, sparking a journey of self-discovery and unexpected love.
Miller's pen brings to life the dialogue between Jeannie and Sylvia, painting their conversations with clarity, authenticity, respect, and humor. These exchanges resonate with the raw, painful truths of identity and self-discovery, drawing readers deep into Jeannie’s world.
From the gripping first page to the serpentine twists and turns of the plot, each character—from the enigmatic Legs to the homeless dog Diablo—leaps off the page with vibrant realism. Their struggles and triumphs echo through the narrative, creating a story that grips you and doesn’t let go.
Though not its primary audience, I found myself wholly immersed in this young adult novel. It's crafted for mature adolescents who will find a kindred spirit in Jeannie and her journey through the shadows. The mature themes and occasional strong language add depth to its portrayal of adolescence, family, and the tangled web of love.
Miller tackles these themes with a deft hand, presenting very mild erotic content tastefully alongside historical and political reflections on sexuality. Though the pacing occasionally dips, the writing remains elegant and clear. The book appears to be professionally edited as I didn't find any grammatical missteps along the way.
In conclusion, I have no criticisms of "Me Inside." I rate it five out of five stars.
"Me Inside" is a testament to love’s many forms—raw, real, and utterly captivating. Once you embark on Jeannie’s journey, you won’t want to turn back.
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Me Inside
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