A Heart in a Body in the World

Wow, I am glad I went into this book not really knowing what it was about.
The author does a great job of handling a really relevant topic(s)- in fact, I don't even want to really say what they are as it spoils her slow unraveling of the tragedy the main character faced and her attempts to move past a truly traumatizing event (one that unfortunately is way too much of a reality in this country.) At first I struggled with the 3rd person narration but, as it went on, I understood the choice. It doesn't feel preachy, but is still extremely affecting and effective. It's the kind of book certain people (or extremely powerful lobbying groups.......) should read, but never will. She connects these issues very well to the realities of what it's like to be a woman- especially the way it is so hard to create boundaries that are really respected without ridicule.

I haven't loved past books by Caletti, but this one feels mature while still realistically a focusing on a teenager's experience, thoughts and actions.

What an emotional read.

Pay attention to the CWs on this one because this book absolutely does not hold back on the hard parts, but it is definitely to its benefit. This entire story is just so raw and brutal that reading it makes it feel like there's a stone sinking in your stomach, but you still don't want to stop reading. This is a story that needs to be told, needs to be heard.

I love how the author doesn't name The Taker until the very end of the book; names give people power, and people like him don't deserve any of it. I think Annabelle's PTSD was represented really well in this book, especially the parts where even something small: a car playing music, seeing someone checking their mail, or even just the sound of your phone buzzing can set you off.

There's one quote I marked down that I think really sums up the message of this book and what Annabelle was struggling with the most. I'll put it under spoilers but it is just an absolute gut punch to read: ‘She's responsible. She caused these feelings. She encouraged him, she was unclear, and now she's finally being clear. She hurt him, and dealing with that hurt is her job now.'

An incredible and devastating read.