I have yet to mention that this entire novel is written in verse. As someone who always prefers the narrative form over verse, I was bit turned off by it. It didn’t help that the format of the digital copy I read left a lot to be desired. However, I did manage to become engaged with the story. The author writes very well and created a very likable main character in Maria. She’s young, naïve and full of heart. The story was very basic. Every twist and turn was predictable, and the ending was a little too good to be true. But it’s hard to dislike a story that means so well. It’s a very sweet tale about two sisters during that time in Italy. The author does a lovely job of describing that era and all the traditions and customs. Using verse gave a bit of a fairy tale, yet authentic, feel. Also, the glass-blowing element was interesting and gave the story more substance. Still, since the story is rather short, especially being written in verse, it wasn’t able to expand and go in-depth with some of the characters. We only get a shade of who they are.
In a lot of ways, Sisters of Glass reminds me of the fairy tale stories I used to read as a little girl before bed. I think this story is really targeted toward a slightly younger audience than the typical YA audience. Regardless, I did enjoy reading the story and it did touch my heart with its sweetness. I definitely recommend it for someone looking for a very light and cute read. It’ll leave you wanting to Google some beautiful Murano glass too.
Rating: 3/5 stars
Sisters of Glass hits bookstores March 27, 2012. You can pre-order the book at our TYF Store!
Book info:
Publisher: Alfred A. Knopf BFYR (March 27, 2012)
Length: 272 pages, Hardcover
Format: E-Book
Source: NetGalley.com
Genre: Young Adult, Family, Romance, Italy, Renaissance
Ages: 12 & up
Completed: January 2012
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