EDITOR’S CHOICE
Beautifully written in verse, Forget Me Not captures the raw emotions of adolescence with haunting poignancy and a touch of magic.
Carolee Dean’s Forget Me Not is a hauntingly beautiful tale that delves into the fragility of adolescence, the consequences of thoughtless actions, and the battle between life and death. Written in interwoven verse, the narrative is uniquely lyrical and deeply evocative, making it a compelling read for lovers of both poetry and storytelling.
The novel follows Ally, a teenage girl whose world unravels after a scandalous photo of her circulates around school. Devastated and overwhelmed, she retreats to a quiet hallway where she meets Elijah, a boy tethered to his own tragic past. Elijah, having survived a suicide attempt that left him seeing spirits, reveals a chilling truth to Ally: she exists on the brink, caught between life and death.
Dean masterfully crafts each character, making them heartbreakingly real and relatable. Ally’s inner turmoil and the deeply personal battle to reclaim her will to live are conveyed with raw honesty. Elijah’s enduring love for Ally and his determination to guide her back from the edge add soul to the unfolding drama.
The poetic format of the novel enhances its emotional resonance, capturing the gravity of teen issues like bullying, shame, and mental health struggles while weaving in an element of fantasy. The blend is seamless, making it both poignant and thought-provoking.
Ultimately, Forget Me Not is a story of redemption, resilience, and self-discovery. It reminds us of the importance of kindness, both to others and to ourselves. Highly recommended for readers seeking an impactful, poetic exploration of life’s trials and triumphs.
