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There is Much in Life that is Unexplained
The Journal of Hidden Truths follows a 13-year-old girl who receives a journal from her mother that she uses to record her introspective revelations. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
What I love most about fiction is that it allows the reader to enter the interior worlds of characters. Star’s Journal provides a clever way to give readers a peek into her personal experiences and beliefs, access her mother does not have.
In a lot of contemporary coming-of-age fiction novels, authors often add their own life experiences to the story. Are there any bits of you in this story?
I can’t imagine writing a story that doesn’t include the author’s own experiences. I can’t claim to have been as precocious as Star; however, like Star, I have and do pay attention to synchronicities in my life. I struggled to fit in, am sensitive to people’s “energy”, and love animals. I have kept a journal most of my life. Having raised a strong-willed daughter, I can relate to Mariah’s annoyance (and deep love) for Star.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Love is a powerful force that can override all kinds of physical/psychological barriers.
There’s a lot that is not easily explained, but clearly exists.
The universe is fundamentally a friendly place.
In my own life I have been amazed by the many “coincidental” happenings that have shaped my path. The findings of quantum physics open “the door” to the possibility that an interconnectedness exists among those we encounter.
I love the character of Candice Quinn. As a dutiful scientist she assumed a materialist view of life. And then, several unexpected personal challenges led her to re-examine her notions of reality. Michael Talbot’s book, The Holographic Universe, is important to both of us and Candice gives it to Star to read.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
For starters, this is my second novel. Both have taken ten years to complete. Granted, until recently I had a demanding day job in Seattle Public Schools as a school psychologist. My first novel, Once Upon a Time a Sparrow is a fictionalized memoir of my experience growing up in rural Minnesota with severe dyslexia at a time when it was not understood. Despite my struggles with reading, I knew I wanted to write stories early on.
“Working on” is still a bit premature. I am contemplating an illustrated book themed around the grief experienced, singularly and collectively, that we humans experience with change. Change is the constant in life and it comes with a hefty package of emotions, including grief.
The Journal of Hidden Truths
The Journal of Hidden Truths by Mary Avery Kabrich elegantly bridges the realms of coming-of-age and speculative fiction, appealing to a broad audience spanning adults, teens, and young adults.
As readers dive in, they’re introduced to Star, a 13-year-old character whose introspective nature shines brilliantly. When she receives a journal as a gift from her mother, Mariah, it becomes a vessel for Star’s introspective revelations and concealed truths.
Kabrich showcases her adept writing skills, seamlessly drawing readers into the narrative and cultivating a plot that beckons one to eagerly anticipate the unfolding events. The prologue, in particular, serves as a model for creating dramatic tension.
The characters, with their relatable and heartfelt complexities, are a highlight. Star, often perceived by others as “strange” and “different,” faces her mother’s desires for her to be “interesting” and “unique.” While some may find her peculiar, her journey of building genuine friendships and traversing the challenges of her teenage years will resonate with many.
Her introspections on her dynamics with Mariah offer an authentic portrayal of a mother-daughter relationship. Yet, it’s Star’s uncanny insights into the secrets of those around her that truly distinguish her tale. Contrasting Star’s unwavering belief in cosmic signals, Mariah embodies a pragmatic outlook, often skeptical of perceptions beyond tangible realities.
The narrative’s rhythm is engaging, with a gentle ebb and flow. Enhancing the pacing in the central sections could further elevate the reading experience, as these parts delve deeply into the characters’ trajectories, occasionally overshadowing the main plot’s advancement.
For those seeking a narrative intertwined with mystery, introspection, and a touch of the metaphysical, The Journal of Hidden Truths is a commendable choice. Kabrich’s narrative talents breathe life into the captivating journey of an enigmatic girl and her pragmatic mother.
Pages 363 | ISBN : 0997233214
LITERARY TITAN 