Compelling.  Raw.  Beautiful.   

 

Twelve-year-old Edward is a lone survivor.  His immediate family gone in an instant.    

 

This tragic plot is the very essence of my nightmares.  For my son to be left alone in the world… it’s beyond what my mama heart can bare.

 

And so, I avoided this book… Until…  

 

I read Hello Beautiful (twice) and had the honor of chatting with Ann. 

 

And I was reminded: some authors can be trusted with your heart.  So, I finally queued up Edward’s story, where I found myself immediately captivated.  

 

There’s a tenderness to the way Napolitano delves into the deepest recesses of the soul, allowing the reader an exploration that haunts and heals. 

 

Such was my experience here.  Eddie’s story is one of profound trauma and grief.  It’s an authentic and visceral portrayal that had me grappling with this loss alongside Edward.

 

And yet, I never felt lost in the mire.  As Eddie navigated the challenges of survival, Napolitano subtly wove in tendrils of resilience which burgeoned into hope.  The story of loss morphed into one of growth and connection.  

 

Turning the last page, all hesitations were gone, and Napolitano solidified her trustworthiness.  There’s a beauty and emotional depth to her writing that supports as it challenges.  I’m a forever fan.