Reviewed by Kelly on
Penelope Lee has aspirations of becoming an author, sharing adventures with captivated audiences. Embarking on her first year of college, Penny is spreading her wings as a young, independent woman and her nonexistent social standing. Her mother Celeste is a vibrant woman, single parent and although Penny often begrudges her mother for her affectionate and effervescent personality, is concerned Celeste will succumb to opportunists of the male persuasion, a point of contention believing her mother encourages male suitors.
Penelope is a ambitious young woman although frustrating, intolerant and critical. Penny begins her journey on the threshold of her first year at college, reluctant to abandon her mother, anxious but determined to become an accomplished author. Penny believes her mother Celeste is irresponsible and effortlessly coerced, ridiculing her choice of attire and her demeanour as an affectionate, compassionate single woman. Her disregard for her mother was disappointing. A woman who raised her child to become an independent young woman, providing for her daughter and a wonderful encouragement. Once arriving at college, Penny ceases communication with Celeste. Penny is undoubtedly obnoxious but possesses a relatability that is confrontational and reflective.
Sharing a dormitory room with Penny, Jude is a vivacious girl, her wealthy and ignorant friend Mallory is abrasive, as Penny despises commercialism and material possessions. Despite the dissimilarities, Jude is determined not to exclude Penny and encourages her socialise. Jude is a wonderful character of compassion and enthusiasm and although privileged, is considerate and nurturing.
Sam Becker is despondent, his relationship fractured as he now resides in an intimate loft above his workplace, an Austin coffee house and patisserie. As a child, Sam endured a home of alcoholism and neglect, his mother a stern and resentful woman now estranged from her only child. Sam is a passionate, intense character yet wilfully ignorant, although his former girlfriend is unfaithful, Sam is prepared to absolve her of responsibility, a desperate young man moments from destruction. Uncharacteristic altruistic, Penny has volunteered to become the Emergency Contact and concerned by his behaviour, they begin messaging one another secretly, under the covers until the sun rises. Throughout their covert messages, Sam and Penny begin a tentative friendship, sharing their aspirations, thoughts and trepidation.
Sam and Penny are undoubtedly attracted to one another but I appreciated the platonic friendship and Sam allowing Penny to determine the parameters of their friendship. The narrative also touches upon casual racism, poverty, socioeconomic barriers, privilege, alcohol abuse, pregnancy and sexual assault through a Korean American own voices narrative. The essence of Emergency Contact is a narrative of companionship, acceptance, maturing as individuals and learning from our experiences. A gentle, mature and beautiful contemporary romance, thoroughly enjoyed it.
Reading updates
- Started reading
- 20 December, 2018: Finished reading
- 20 December, 2018: Reviewed