While I love to read and enjoy most literature, I rarely find novels that captivate me like "White Oleander" by Janet Finch. It embodies all I find beautiful in writing: sharp dialogue, vivid description, thoughtful character creations and a winding journey.
Finch has a stunning possession of her subject matter, as "White Oleander" is an original tale of not only one girl's trek toward adulthood, but a beautiful allegory for motherhood.
"White Oleander" is the story of Astrid and her incarcerated mother, Ingrid. Ingrid is a brilliant but tormented poet, and her influence over Astrid is sometimes heartwarming, many times chilling.
At the start of the book, Astrid is a pliable young girl thrown from foster home to foster home. While her many experiences with many families polarize her from the mother she once knew, Ingrid remains an emotional cornerstone in Astrid's life. But as time passes, Astrid begins to realize that she does not want, nor does she deserve the life her mother wants for her.
Fitch is a gifted writer, but "White Oleander" proves her to be a brilliant novelist as well.
The setting of Los Angeles is a perfect choice, as Astrid is able to experience and grow from her interaction with the urban spectrum — from trailer parks to suburbia to the Hollywood Hills, For the West Coast, is not only the place where dreams come true, but also where dreams are broken.
What emerges is a captivating tale of the white oleander, a beautiful yet deadly plant.
The white oleander signifies not only the toxic maternal relationship between Astrid and Ingrid, but the nature of Astrid's many relationships with her host parents and families.
And it is Astrid's recognition of this poison that marks her true journey toward adulthood: while she can still draw from the beauty of her mother, Astrid must also become independent of her deadly forces.
I would give White Oleander a 10 out of 10. Poignant and stunning, the novel presents not only a gripping plot but also a beautiful work of literature. Finch crafts her story with care, precision and sheer talent.
Better suited for an older, high school audience, this is one of the finest books I have ever had the pleasure of reading.
Astrid's story is gripping and unique, yet distinctly relatable, and easily appreciated by teens of any gender or background.
The writer is an Andover resident and student at Phillips Academy.
