What a Time to Be Alive: A Mesmerizing Journey Through Youth and Self-Discovery by Jenny Mustard
When I first stumbled across "What a Time to Be Alive" by Jenny Mustard, the title struck a chord within me. As someone who has navigated the turbulent waters of youth, I found myself instantly drawn to the prospect of discovering a story that encapsulates the dizzying highs and lows of coming of age. Mustard’s debut novel, described as both a dark coming-of-age tale and a tender bildungsroman, offers a lens into the life of Sickan, a 21-year-old grappling with the complexities of friendship, love, and identity within the vibrant yet isolating backdrop of Stockholm.
Sickan’s journey resonates with anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider. Her path begins at Stockholm University, where she hopes for a fresh start, free from the loneliness that defined her childhood in a small southern town. The novel captures the essence of youth’s awkwardness and wonder: the exhilaration of new friendships, the tingling nerves of first love, and the painful realizations that come with vulnerability. As she begins to form bonds with her peers, it becomes clear that these connections carry the weight of her deeply ingrained insecurities. Meeting Abbe—a beautiful, charming figure who seems to embody everything Sickan longs for—brings an additional layer of complexity. Their budding relationship asks poignant questions about intimacy, acceptance, and self-worth.
What struck me most about Mustard’s writing is its enchanting blend of humor and heartache. Critics have noted her "honesty and wit" (Ayşegül Savaş) as she navigates the "strange, mundane, and wondrous aspects of youth." There’s a raw authenticity in her prose that lets the reader feel both the lightness and the gravity of Sickan’s experiences. The pacing flows seamlessly, allowing moments of joy to simmer alongside deeper reflections on class and loneliness. As Bryan Washington aptly put it, Mustard’s prose is "piercing" and a "joy to read," balancing the effervescence of youth with the sobering weight of personal sacrifice.
As I turned the pages, I found myself reflecting on my own youthful introspections, often prompted by poignant phrases from the text. One particularly stuck with me: "How much of myself am I willing to sacrifice to finally fit in?" This haunting inquiry reverberates long after you close the book, encouraging readers to contemplate their own sacrifices and choices.
Ultimately, "What a Time to Be Alive" offers a fresh perspective on coming-of-age narratives. It’s a story not just for the young, but for anyone who has ever felt the pangs of longing or the burdens of self-discovery. The book’s blend of humor, warmth, and insight makes it a perfect read for those navigating their own journeys, as well as those who appreciate beautifully crafted prose.
In conclusion, if you’re seeking a novel that captures the bittersweet essence of youth—replete with moments of joy, frustration, and the delightful yet painful dance of relationships—then Jenny Mustard’s debut might just be the read for you. It reminded me that sometimes, amidst the chaos and uncertainty, there’s a grace in simply being alive and learning to embrace every first with open arms. This book is an invitation to reflect on our own journeys and perhaps find a little piece of ourselves in Sickan’s story.