Book Review: "Blue" by Lou Aronica

Title: Blue

Author: Lou Aronica

Publisher: The Fiction Studio

ISBN, PUB Date: 978-1-936558-00-1, January 16, 2011

Reviewed By: Libby for Author Exposure

“Do not begin this novel unless you are prepared to be moved, willing to open your heart, and available to the possibility that life can bring you magic.”

Heed this back cover warning before you start reading Blue. You will be moved. It will open your heart and mind to the possibilities that lie beyond our imagination. What would you do if you could travel to the storybook land you created for your child? What would you do if your child was terminally ill and the only way to save her was through your imagination?

This is exactly what happened to Chris Astor. His fourteen-year-old daughter, Becky, has been in remission for years, but the leukemia is back. Just before Becky receives this news, she discovers a portal to the fantasy world her father created as a coping mechanism when she was first diagnosed with cancer at age 5. Although creating this place was once an important part of her childhood, it has been years since Becky and Chris last spoke about Tamarisk. Her parent’s divorce has taken a toll on her relationship with her dad. But, when Becky tells her dad, “Tamarisk is real” (98), it is clear that this fantasy land will once again be there to help them overcome the pain and sadness surrounding Becky’s cancer.

The author does a fabulous job intertwining the fantasy world and the real world. It is clear that both worlds are experiencing suffering; Becky’s cancer is destroying her body and a mysterious blight is obliterating the plants in Tamarisk. Juxtaposed with this, however, is the overwhelming power of possibilities that the characters in both lands realize once they discover each other. What was once hopeless is possible now that they are together; they can save each other.

Admittedly, I thought Blue was slow in the beginning, but once Becky discovers Tamarisk, the pacing really picks up. This fantastic book will take you on an amazing journey you won’t soon forget.

I absolutely loved the imagery of Tamarisk. Aronica writes with such clarity and his descriptions make everything incredibly easy to visualize. The first time Becky steps outside in Tamarisk, she experiences “an immediate sensory barrage” (127). These few words express so much. You can almost feel the wonder and amazement Becky feels as she looks out in a world where colors are so rich, they are “almost physically overwhelming” (127). The sights and sounds of Tamarisk are dazzling, to say the least. I really enjoyed discovering this world along with Becky and Chris.

Blue is a compelling book that is hard to put down once you are into it. I think it would appeal to both adults and young adults. I wholeheartedly recommend Blue! Even if you don’t consider yourself a reader who enjoys fantasy novels, I would encourage you to give Blue a try. You will not be disappointed.