Breath : Book Review

"Breath" by Donna Jo Napoli is a captivating and touching coming-of-age tale set in 16th century Italy. Following the life of a young girl named Rachel, born with a cleft palate, which makes speaking a challenge, the novel explores her journey of self-discovery and the power of her musical talent as a flautist.

Napoli's writing skillfully transports readers to the vibrant world of Renaissance Italy. The attention to detail and atmospheric descriptions create an authentic and culturally rich backdrop, immersing readers in the historical setting.

The emotional depth of the characters is one of the novel's standout features. Rachel's struggles and triumphs as she navigates a society that often judges her for her condition are compelling and heart-wrenching. Napoli portrays these challenges with sensitivity and realism, allowing readers to connect with Rachel on an empathetic level.

Themes of identity, self-acceptance, and the transformative power of music are expertly explored in "Breath." Through Rachel's passion for the flute and her unwavering determination to use her talent, Napoli highlights the importance of art as a means of self-expression and healing.

Overall, "Breath" is a beautifully written and thought-provoking historical novel that will resonate with readers of all ages. With its engaging storyline, well-developed characters, and rich historical backdrop, Napoli has crafted a compelling tale that underscores the significance of finding one's voice and embracing one's unique qualities.

What are readers saying?

Breath by Donna Jo Napoli has received a mixed response from readers, with both praise and criticism for the book. Some found the novel to be a captivating and emotional read, admiring the author's sensitive handling of difficult subjects. They appreciated the unique premise of the story, which centers around a young girl with cystic fibrosis, and felt a strong connection to the characters. Napoli's portrayal of the physical and emotional challenges faced by individuals with chronic illnesses was regarded as educational and eye-opening.

However, there were readers who felt that the execution of the story did not meet their expectations. They found the pacing to be slow, which hindered their engagement with the narrative. Some also mentioned that the characters lacked depth and development, making it difficult to fully connect with their struggles. The resolution of the story was criticized by some, as it left unanswered questions and unresolved plotlines.

Opinions on the writing style were also divided. Some readers praised Napoli's lyrical prose for bringing depth to the story and enhancing its emotional impact. Conversely, there were those who found the writing to be too simplistic and repetitive, which affected their enjoyment of the novel.

Despite the mixed reception, Breath was generally applauded for its representation of cystic fibrosis and its impact on the characters' lives. Readers commended Napoli for shedding light on an often overlooked topic, which allowed them to gain a better understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with the condition.

In conclusion, Breath by Donna Jo Napoli received a range of reviews, with some readers appreciating the sensitive portrayal of cystic fibrosis and the emotional depths of the story, while others found the pacing slow and the character development lacking. The writing style also divided opinion, with some praising the lyrical prose while others found it to be too simplistic. Nevertheless, the novel was commended for raising awareness of cystic fibrosis and its impact on the lives of those affected.

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