Raise the Curtain

by Kirby Hall

[Nadz@Totally Addicted to Reading]

Recently, I have found myself gravitating towards the young adult genre and now and then I would find one that intrigues me. When I read the synopsis for Raise the Curtain, I knew right away; I had to read this book.

What the Story is About

Seventeen-year-old Alexa Cross dreams of one day making it on Broadway. She practices every day to ensure that she gains a scholarship, which would be the first step in realising her dream. However, she faces two obstacles, a failing math grade and a disapproving father. The first obstacle is easy to overcome, but the second would prove to be her biggest challenge.

West Harlow, has suffered his share of pain and loss. His inability to channel his anger in a positive way placed him in trouble, which led to switching schools. Determined to keep out of trouble and maintain good grades, he kept to himself and avoided all forms of social activities. However, when recruited to become Alexa’s maths tutor, he slowly found himself changing his perspective. He would find himself on a journey of healing and acceptance.

What I enjoyed

The Story

Raise the Curtain which was narrated in alternate POVs, is not just about two teenagers falling in love. It is a story of healing, acceptance and accomplishing one’s dreams. The story highlighted issues of abandonment, classism and low self-esteem. There was the typical teenage drama and angst that one would expect form a story such as this, but it was not overly done.

The Characters

I love stories that features a strong and likeable heroine and Raise the Curtain did not disappoint. I admired Alexa or her loyalty to her friends; her love for her family and her dedication towards achieving her goals. In spite of the obstacles faced, which came not only in the form of a failing grade and a father’s disapproval, but also from a jealous peer, she demonstrated determination in the pursuit of her dreams. She was not the pretentious type and despite her station in life she was never a snob.

West is hounded by of a tragic event from his past. He spent most of his time in solitude and avoided making friends. West is a quiet and brooding hero. I admired his love for his mom and his willingness to help even he desired to be left alone.

I loved the interaction between West and Alexa. However, as time went by, he warmed up to her. Initially, he thought her to be a rich and spoilt and being recruited to tutor her was not an ideal situation from his perspective. She thought he was an arrogant douche. However, the more time they spent in each other’s company they would realise that first impressions is not what they always seem.

I enjoyed watching both characters growing to become a better version of themselves. By the time the story ended West was no longer the closed of angry young I first met and he had become better at socialising. Alexa’s relationship with her father improved and things appeared to be looking up.

I loved the development of the relationship between Alexa and West. They started out on a not so friendly course, which slowly developed into something meaningful and worth fighting for.

The issues I had.

I had problems with Alexa’s father’s attitude towards her dreams and her friendship with West. I understand wanting the best for your child, but his actions were just wrong. He saw her love for the performing arts as a hobby. His desire was for her to stick to the path he chose for her and not go after the things she loved. He failed to see how stifling his actions were.

Conclusion/Recommendation

This book not only featured a sweet romance, awesome friendships and family dynamics. It was a story of healing, self-discovery and acceptance. If you are a fan of the young adult genre and enjoy a sweet and charming story then you will love Raise the Curtain.