The Send-Away Girl : Book Review

"The Send Away Girl" by Barbara Sutton is a deeply moving and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of identity, family, and the longing for a sense of belonging. Set against the backdrop of the 1960s, the story revolves around Lily, a young girl of mixed-race who is sent away to a school specifically for girls of her "exotic" background. In her journey to navigate the challenges of being the only non-white student in a racially divided society, Lily grapples with her own sense of self and strives to find her place in the world.

Sutton's writing is captivating and masterfully descriptive, effortlessly painting a vivid picture of the time period and the inner struggles faced by her protagonist. Lily's quest for self-discovery is both heartrending and empowering, as she confronts the complex racial dynamics of the era and explores her own heritage. The novel weaves together discussions on the enduring impact of racism and the ways in which it molds lives, while infusing the narrative with glimpses of hope and resilience.

What truly sets "The Send Away Girl" apart are its multi-dimensional and compelling characters, each with their own personal struggles and hidden secrets. Lily's relationships with her classmates, teachers, and family are portrayed with depth and sensitivity, allowing readers to fully connect with their stories. Sutton also incorporates historical events and cultural references to further enhance the authenticity and depth of the narrative.

One of the standout qualities of Sutton's writing is her ability to tackle sensitive and complex subjects with grace and sensitivity. She addresses themes of racial identity, discrimination, and self-acceptance in a nuanced manner, avoiding oversimplified solutions or stereotypes. The exploration of these themes adds layers of depth to the narrative, prompting introspection and inviting readers to reassess their own perspectives.

"The Send Away Girl" is an impactful and thought-provoking novel that sheds light on the struggles faced by individuals searching for their place in a racially divided society. Sutton's skillful storytelling and well-developed characters ensure that this book leaves a lasting impression on readers, long after they turn the final page.

What are readers saying?

The novel "The Send-Away Girl" by Barbara Sutton has garnered a mixture of reactions from its readers. While some found the book to be a captivating and thought-provoking read, others felt that it fell short of their expectations.

Numerous reviewers praised Sutton's writing style, appreciating her ability to create vivid and descriptive scenes. They found the story to be immersive, particularly enjoying its historical backdrop set in early 20th century China. The author's attention to detail and thorough research when exploring cultural and societal issues was also well-received.

However, there were a few reviewers who expressed disappointment with the book's pacing. They felt that while the story had a strong start, it lost momentum as it progressed. Some readers also found the plot to be predictable and lacking surprises, ultimately affecting their overall enjoyment of the book.

Characterization was another point of contention among reviewers. While some felt that the characters were well-developed and relatable, others found them to be one-dimensional and lacking depth. As a result, some readers struggled to fully connect with the protagonist, which ultimately affected their investment in the story.

The themes of identity and female empowerment in the book received mixed feedback. Some readers appreciated the way in which these themes were handled, finding them to be thought-provoking and inspiring. However, other readers felt that these themes were underdeveloped and desired a more nuanced exploration.

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