Theories of Relativity: A novel (Book Review)

Theories of Relativity: A novel Barbra Haworth-Attard.

A young man (Dylan) struggles to make it while living in the streets when his mother kicks him out. He meets a group of other young people who either help him get by or fall deeper into the black hole of the street life.

This book was a book chosen in a local book club. I was eager to read this book because I work with at risk youth in a major city and it kills me when I see youth living in the streets.

This book in focused towards young adult readers, however, anyone reading this book can learn something very important. We see kids in the streets everyday, and we see homeless people trying to make it. However, we rarely think about their past. What got them into that situation?

Barbra does a great job to at least open up the doors for us to look into this life. She does a great job in character development. Each character has his/her unique style. She also does a great job keeping readers guessing if the character is good or bad. After reading a couple of chapters you find it hard not to care for each character.

The plot has a very realistic feel to it. The author does a great job to pull you right in from the start. It is extremely hard to guess what is going to happen next. Every turn seems to get worse for Dylan. The readers will not help but wonder when it will it ever end and finally get better for this kid. Nevertheless, that is what makes this book so good. It does not always get better in the streets. Therefore, Barbra does a great job to have a realistic look on things and life in the streets.

I had a hard time getting past the end of the first half of the book. It seems like it started to loose some steam, but was very satisfied the second half of the book. Not only does it pick up steam but also I found myself not able to put the book down.

This is a great read for everyone. Not just youth.

4 out of 5 Shots