GATHER, by Kenneth M. Cadow, Candlewick, Oct. 3, 2023, Hardcover, $17.99 (young adult, ages 14 and up)
A rural Vermont teenager struggles to save his family home amidst his mom’s addiction in Gather, by Kenneth M. Cadow.
Ian Gray isn’t supposed to have a dog, but a lot of things that shouldn’t happen end up happening anyway. And Gather, Ian’s adopted pup, is good company now that Ian has to quit the basketball team, find a job, and take care of his mom as she tries to overcome her opioid addiction.
Despite the obstacles thrown their way, Ian is determined to keep his family afloat no matter what it takes. And for a little while, things are looking up: Ian makes friends, and his fondness for the outdoors and for fixing things lands him work helping neighbors.
But an unforeseen tragedy results in Ian and his dog taking off on the run, trying to evade a future that would mean leaving their house and their land. Even if the community comes together to help him, would Ian and Gather have a home to return to? —Synopsis provided by Candlewick
Gather is a 2023 National Book Award Finalist and for good reason. This debut YA novel reads like it was written by a seasoned writer. And it’s one I read start-to-finish in one day.
The story unfolds from Ian’s point of view. As he relates what happens, his first-person narrative bounces from time to time, topic to topic in a way that feels completely natural — adding context where needed.
Ian is the kind of character that you root for from the beginning. You want him to succeed, and you keenly feel every win and every loss with him. And though Ian’s life is far from perfect, there’s a vein of hope that runs throughout.
As Ian works through everything, he gains a true sense of community and friendship. He begins to realize his own value not only to himself but to those who surround him.
Equally exceptional is author Kenneth M. Cadow’s exploration of the land and Ian’s ties to it. The history. The ability to live off of it. Self-sustainability. And the pure joy of being one with nature shine through.
Gather is a beautiful story of resilience. It’s one of my favorite YA novels of the year. I highly recommend it.
Copyright © 2023 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.
