Review of Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly

Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly is so far out of my comfort zone, I feel that I've been stretched as a reader to the point of no return. This contemporary story paints the past and present together in a hauntingly brutal portrait of two girls, in two different times. After tragedy strikes, Andi discovers Alex, a girl of the past. It is through Alex's diary that Andi learns how to live in the present.

As a writer, Donnelly is amazing. She always manages to masterfully weave together an unbelievable complex story. The author uses multiple genres in a complicated plot crossing time and dimensions. Revolution is both contemporary and historical, and possibly fantasy, but you are never really sure whether or not Andi's trip back in time is a "trip" or the truth.

This book blends the French Revolution (you must have a strong stomach to read this story -it's graphic), musical genius, genetics, tragedy, love, and hope together in a poignant novel that will shake you to your core. Yes, I had disturbing dreams. Revolution is a unique read requiring a strong, mature reader. I would not recommend it to anyone under the age of sixteen.