A Heartfelt Journey Through Grief and Art: A Review of 13 Ways to Say Goodbye by Kelsey Rodriguez
When I first stumbled upon 13 Ways to Say Goodbye, I was immediately drawn in by the premise: a young girl, Nina, navigating her grief and self-discovery amidst the picturesque backdrop of Paris. Having recently faced loss myself, the book resonated with me on a personal level, igniting a familiar mix of sorrow and the search for healing. Kelsey Rodriguez’s portrayal of Nina’s journey is sincere and beautifully crafted, and I felt as though I was walking alongside her every step of the way.
At its heart, 13 Ways to Say Goodbye is about the complex tapestry of grief and love. Nina attends an art camp in Paris, ostensibly for a lovely escape and to reconnect with her Aunt Renee, but the truth is that she is running away from her pain after the death of her sister, Lily. The dual narrative of trying to complete Lily’s unfinished “12 things to do before she turned 12” list adds depth to Nina’s quest. This isn’t just a journey through a vibrant city; it’s a soul-searching endeavor, as she deals with regret and the weight of missing her sister.
Rodriguez delivers the story in verse, a beautiful choice that adds a lyrical quality to Nina’s emotional struggles. The pacing kept me engaged, with each poem unearthing new layers of Nina’s character. As Nina learns more French, grows as an artist, and develops a sweet, tentative romance with Sylvie, readers are pulled into the warmth and turbulence of young love. The scenes where they explore famous Parisian landmarks together were magic—each description wrapped in nostalgia and yearning, echoing the book’s themes of longing and connection.
One particularly poignant moment occurs when Nina stumbles upon her sister’s favorite spot in the city. It’s a turning point, a moment of clarity in her grief where she begins to heal, realizing that Lily’s spirit still dances throughout her life. Rodriguez beautifully balances these heavy themes with lighthearted moments, and I found myself laughing and crying in equal measure.
While I adored much of this story, I did find the portrayal of Nina’s parents somewhat troubling. While they embody a common trope in middle-grade fiction—grieving parents who seem absorbed in their own lives after a loss—it felt a bit one-dimensional. Perhaps there could have been more emphasis on seeking help, especially in a story so richly focused on the importance of connection. Nevertheless, Nina’s journey remains compelling.
For readers who appreciate poignant narratives exploring sibling loss, 13 Ways to Say Goodbye will be a treasure. Fans of authors like Condie and Warga will find themselves captivated by Nina’s story of love, healing, and self-discovery.
In conclusion, Kelsey Rodriguez has crafted a tender exploration of grief, art, and the bittersweet beauty of growing up. Personally, it served as a reminder that healing can happen even in the most unexpected places, and sometimes, we find our way forward by revisiting the past. Whether you’re a young reader or someone simply seeking connection through literature, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.