A Heart in a Body in the World by Deb Caletti is the story of Annabelle who suffered from a traumatic experience and decides to go on a cross country run from Seattle to Washington D.C to try and cope with the trauma she experienced. The story had two main parts, the past where Annabelle relives the events that led up to the trauma, and present where Annabelle is going on the cross country run and trying to cope with the aftermath of the trauma. The book lets you know that Annabelle faced a trauma but you are left uncertain as to what the trauma was. The book might be triggering to some individuals as there is some violence.
I really liked how the novel builds up to telling the reader what trauma Annabelle experienced. You know there was trauma but you are only given bits and pieces and the story comes together the more Annabelle confronts her trauma and tries to cope with it.
There were a lot of great characters in this novel. I thought the author did a wonderful job of providing Annabelle with an amazing support system. I felt that this book highlights why people who have been through trauma need a strong support system. You realize that Annabelle's support system helps to keep her going despite her constant struggle with the trauma she endured. I think my favorite character was Annabelle's grandfather. He features prominently in the story and he is the one who follows Annabelle while she goes on her cross country run. It was apparent how much Annabelle's grandfather wanted to support her and the love he showed her was such an amazing thing to read.
This book has become a new favorite which was surprising as I didn't think I would enjoy it because of how heavily the cross country run is featured. I decided to give this book a shot after hearing a few different reviewers rave about it and I can say that I am glad I gave it a shot. Annabelle will probably stick with me for quite some time. I feel this is an important book for many people to read and I cannot recommend it highly enough.
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