Sunday, December 5, 2010

Waves - Sharon Dogar.


Waves by Sharon Dogar.

"A remarkable novel...suffused by an atmosphere both sensuous and sinister." - Philip Pullman.

Three quarters into it, and I just can't wait till the end. I'm only stopping reading in order to write this.
It's a fantastic young adult novel that caters to adult needs, tackling themes regarding loss, grief and family issues. The protagonists Hal and Charley are brother and sister who find themselves tied with a strong bond that goes beyond the norm - they can hear each others thoughts, and whats more, they can see through each other's 'chameleon' eyes. Charley, deep in a coma in a hospital bed, reaches out for help to Hal, who is vacationing at their holiday house during the summer, hoping he can save her from the depths. The rest of the family, believing there is no hope for Charley, only fuels Hal's desires to 'rescue' his sister by finding out what really happened last summer to her.

It is a dark book; even the romantic scenes between Hal and Jackie, and Charley's flashbacks to her and Pete the 'surf-god', are infused with a sinister quality, like there is something not quite right, and the dangers of young love. Sharon Dogar treats human emotions and the strong bonds between family in a powerful way, and the symbolism of waves can be read in so many different ways, for changing emotions, danger, starting afresh and growing up.

Alright, back to the book!

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