Any way the wind blows by Rainbow Rowell

In this gripping final novel in Rainbow Rowell's Simon Snow trilogy, Simon and his friends trudge through another adventure in self-discovery and acceptance. Having returned from their road trip in America, each of Rowell's unique and realistic characters are faced with situations, and crises, that force them to challenge their ever-evolving sense of self. Simon must decide whether he wishes to remain involved with the World of Mages, and whether this impacts his relationship with Baz. For Baz, this novel presents the balancing of two family crises as well as his own discoveries about his vampiric nature, while deepening his relationship with Simon. Penny must deal with the consequences of spontaneously smuggling an American Normal into London, and finally, Agatha attempts to find herself in the shadow of the events of the last book. Rowell's prose and endearingly complicated characters mirror young adolescent's own challenges with identity and teaches the reader that you are not defined by the things that happen to you, that we can forge our own destiny, and that there is more after the 'happy ever after'. Rowell implores the reader to not give up, and to remember that we are never truly alone. The ultimate ‘found family’ trilogy, this novel is highly recommended for young adults seeking a magical adventure, with some comforting messages along the way.

Themes: Magic, Coming of Age, Relationships, Friendships, Grief, Identity, Family.

Daniella Chiarolli