"Bone Gap" By Laura Ruby
0Laura Ruby's "Bone Gap" is a young adult novel that explores the themes of love, identity, and perception. The story is set in a small rural town called Bone Gap, where the citizens are haunted by a mysterious and malevolent force that takes the form of a man with a honeycomb face. The novel follows the lives of two brothers, Finn and Sean, as well as the enigmatic Roza, a Polish immigrant who goes missing.
The novel is written in a nonlinear fashion, with chapters alternating between different perspectives and time periods. This structure creates a sense of mystery and intrigue, as readers must piece together the events of the story themselves.
One of the central themes of the novel is identity. Finn, the younger of the two brothers, struggles with his own identity and how he is perceived by others. He is often seen as strange and aloof by his peers, but he also possesses a unique ability to see people's true selves. This ability is both a blessing and a curse, as it sets him apart from others but also allows him to understand and empathize with them on a deeper level.
Another key theme of the novel is love. Finn is infatuated with Roza, who he believes is the most beautiful person he has ever seen. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Finn's love for Roza goes beyond her physical appearance. He is drawn to her strength and resilience, and he sees her as a symbol of hope in a town that is plagued by fear and darkness.
The novel also explores the power of perception and how it can shape our reality. The citizens of Bone Gap are often quick to judge others based on their appearance or actions, and this leads to misunderstandings and conflicts. However, as Finn learns to see beyond the surface level, he is able to understand and connect with others in a more meaningful way.
The character of Roza is particularly intriguing, as she represents the struggle of immigrants in America. She is fiercely independent and determined to make a life for herself, but she also faces discrimination and prejudice from those around her. Her disappearance serves as a catalyst for the events of the novel, and her resilience and bravery inspire Finn and others to confront their own fears and prejudices.
The novel's setting of Bone Gap is also significant, as it represents the isolation and close-mindedness of small towns. The citizens of Bone Gap are largely content with their simple way of life, but they are also suspicious of outsiders and resistant to change. This mindset is embodied by the character of Charlie Valentine, a popular and charismatic boy who uses his charm to manipulate and control those around him.
In conclusion, "Bone Gap" is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant novel that explores the themes of love, identity, and perception. Laura Ruby's nonlinear storytelling creates a sense of mystery and intrigue, and her characters are complex and nuanced. The novel's exploration of the struggles of immigrants and the power of perception is particularly relevant in today's society, and it serves as a reminder to look beyond the surface level and strive for empathy and understanding.