“Orpheus Girl” by Brynne Rebele-Henry – A Review
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5
Year Published: 2019
Genre: Young Adult Fiction, LGBTQ+
Page Count: 176
Quick Summary
Orpheus Girl tells the poignant story of 16-year-old Raya, who, abandoned by her mother, lives with her grandmother in a conservative Texas town. Deeply fascinated by ancient myths, Raya harbors a secret love for her best friend, Sarah. When their relationship is discovered, both girls are sent to Friendly Saviors, a conversion therapy camp aiming to "fix" them. Drawing parallels to the Orpheus myth, Raya becomes determined to rescue herself and Sarah from this harrowing ordeal.
What I Loved
Powerful and Unique Characters: Each character in this novel is intricately crafted, offering a vivid portrayal of their struggles and resilience. Raya's internal monologues about concealing her true self and the fear of exposure are especially impactful, resonating with anyone who's felt the need to hide their identity.
A Loud Call for Change: The narrative boldly addresses the real-life horrors of conversion therapy, serving as a powerful critique of such practices. The author's commitment to shedding light on these issues is both courageous and necessary.
Emotional Depth: This book is an emotional journey that doesn't shy away from the brutal realities faced by its characters. Michael's storyline, though briefly mentioned, is profoundly moving and evokes a deep sense of empathy.
What Didn't Quite Work for Me
Dreamlike Prose: While the lyrical writing adds a poetic touch, there are moments where it feels more distracting than enriching, occasionally pulling focus from the core narrative.
Abrupt Plot Twists: Certain unexpected developments felt jarring and, in my view, unnecessary, disrupting the story's flow.
Who Should Read This?
If you're interested in a raw and unflinching exploration of LGBTQ+ themes, societal norms, and personal resilience, Orpheus Girl is a compelling read. However, be prepared for its intense and, at times, disturbing content.
Final Thoughts
Orpheus Girl is a beautifully written novel that courageously tackles challenging subjects. Despite its occasional stylistic distractions, the story's emotional weight and the author's dedication to highlighting pressing issues make it a significant and thought-provoking read.
