Review by kdstrack -- Elastic Girl by Olivia Rana

[kdstrack]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Elastic Girl" by Olivia Rana.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Elastic Girl by Olivia Rana tells the story of a young girl who felt unloved by her family. Will a change in her environment improve her outlook on life?

Muthu has been told that she is the cause of all the bad things that happen to their family. When her father puts her in the circus, she hopes things will change. She performs an act as Elastic Girl due to her ability to squeeze herself into tiny spaces. But, despite this new opportunity, bad things continue to happen. The people who come to see the circus clap and cheer without knowing what kind of life the young performers are subjected to behind the scenes. One day, Muthu decides to return to her family home. When she arrives back home she discovers something about her past that helps her understand her family situation. But now she must decide how to face the future. Should she stay with her family or head out on her own?

When the circus comes to town, people line up to see the acts. The great majority of spectators do not understand the situation of the actors. The author shows how many of the youngest performers are not participating by choice. They are actually the breadwinners of the family!

This story takes place in India. The author includes a wealth of information on the culture and customs of the country. Included are many holidays and how they are celebrated. There are also descriptions of different foods and clothing.

The author also deals with the theme of extended family living in the same house. In some instances, this can be helpful for the different generations coming together. On the other hand, difficult family relationships often result in lifelong resentments. Other themes touched on include child labor, rape, prostitution and runaways. Muthu’s youth and lack of education contribute to poor decisions and unreal expectations.

I really enjoyed the first half of the book. There is a clear focus and direction on Muthu’s life situation. After she realizes what life in the circus entails, the remaining events seem to just twist and turn. These experiences seem hurried through and are underdeveloped. The second half felt too rushed and crowded in contrast to the first half.

I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. The author writes in a compelling way about difficult topics that occur, all too often, in our modern world. I would recommend this book to people interested in reading about the human struggle with self-doubt and also for those interested in how poverty affects child development.

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Elastic Girl
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Like kdstrack's review? Post a comment saying so!

[kwame1977]

It necessary for this girl to stay away from her family because they have nothing to offer her. Reconciliation is necessary but what about if the family plans something evil against her again? Its better to stay away.

[kdstrack]

It necessary for this girl to stay away from her family because they have nothing to offer her. Reconciliation is necessary but what about if the family plans something evil against her again? Its better to stay away.

Family ties are so strong. The girl portrayed in the story was too young to understand why she was being treated the way her family treated her. Her natural instinct was to go "home". The story explains her final decision. Very interesting.

[Ashiyya Tariq]

It's an awesome story of circus girl who faced many hardships from the very beginning. The story portrays a grim picture of child trafficking in India. Thanks for your review. You can check out mine, if you like.

[CommMayo]

This is an enjoyable review to read. I'm almost surprised that you rated it so highly after the negative issues you mention. It must be a worthwhile read and quite the cautionary tale about child trafficking.

[Italiansweety1982]

I just read this book. A good read, well written, but some parts were hard to get thru.