annieb123
Written on Dec 25, 2021
The Storyteller is a well written YA story about "truth" and the different narrative our lives can encompass by Kathryn Williams. Due out 11th Jan 2022 from Harper, it's 368 pages and will be available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats.
This is a YA coming of age story told in parallel flashback story lines through journal entries made by the main protagonist's great aunt as a young girl. There's a clear delineation between the modern day and early 20th century stories and the characters' voices are quite distinct, so it's easy to keep track - there's no confusion between the two.
The story is compelling and I found myself drawn in by Anna's recollections of life in Russia in the early part of the 20th century. The intended audience will likely find protagonist Jess likeable and relatable. There's romance, but it doesn't overpower the story.
The author makes some good points about changing who we are to fit in and conforming to other people's expectations in order to avoid conflict. In addition, the story is engaging and plays across the wider canvas of the Russian revolution and history.
Four stars. An exciting story, well told.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.