The Raging Quiet : Book Review

"The Raging Quiet" by Sherryl Jordan is a captivating and thought-provoking historical fiction novel set in a small coastal village during medieval times. The story follows Marnie, a young widow who faces challenges due to her inability to speak. Upon her arrival in the village, the suspicious villagers view her as an outsider. However, an unexpected bond forms between Marnie and Raver, a young man considered an outcast due to his unconventional behavior and intellectual nature.

As their friendship grows, Marnie and Raver discover their shared love for music and find solace in playing the fiddle together. This unique form of communication becomes their way of expressing their feelings and thoughts, especially as they face misunderstanding and prejudice from the villagers. Through their bond, they challenge societal norms and teach the importance of empathy, acceptance, and embracing differences.

Jordan's writing skillfully brings the medieval village to life, immersing the reader in its rich and vibrant atmosphere. The characters are well-developed, relatable, and their struggles and emotions are portrayed with authenticity and depth. Marnie's portrayal as a silenced woman adds another layer of complexity to the narrative, shedding light on the power of communication and the experiences of women whose voices are often unheard.

"The Raging Quiet" not only explores themes of acceptance, friendship, and the unifying power of music, but it also delves into timeless issues of prejudice and discrimination. The novel serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion and empathy, and the potential for positive change when societal norms are challenged.

In summary, "The Raging Quiet" is an engaging and insightful novel that transports the reader to a different time and place while addressing universal themes. Jordan's storytelling captivates the reader, leaving a lasting impact and encouraging reflection on our own behavior and attitudes towards others.

What are readers saying?

Sherryl Jordan's novel "The Raging Quiet" has garnered a range of feedback from readers. The book tells the story of Marnie, a young woman who becomes isolated in a small coastal village following her husband's death. In her journey of coping with her loss, Marnie develops an unexpectedly close bond with Raven, an outcast who is both deaf and mute. Here is a summary of the varying reviews:

1. Positive reviews note that "The Raging Quiet" is a captivating and emotionally charged tale. Readers commend the book for its realistic portrayal of grief and its exploration of themes such as friendship and acceptance. The author's engaging and descriptive writing style is also highly praised, particularly in creating the atmospheric setting of the coastal village.

2. Some negative reviews express disappointment with the story's pacing, finding it slow and difficult to become invested in at the beginning. These readers also criticize the underdevelopment of the characters and feel that the romance between Marnie and Raven was rushed and lacked depth. A few reviewers point out that the dialogue occasionally felt unrealistic, making it challenging to form a deep connection with the characters.

3. Many reviewers appreciate the book's exploration of important themes such as communication barriers, prejudice, and the transformative power of empathy. They find that these themes add depth to the story and spur meaningful discussions.

4. Several readers mention that "The Raging Quiet" has a profound emotional impact, leaving a lasting impression. The raw and authentic depiction of grief, as well as the characters' struggles, resonate strongly with many readers, making the story both heartrending and heartwarming.

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