For teens grappling with sibling rivalry, complicated family dynamics, first crushes, and the intense process of self-discovery amidst grief and artistic ambition.
A parent might reach for this book for a teen grappling with intense sibling rivalry, the chaotic process of self-discovery, or the profound grief of losing a parent. It tells the story of Noah and Jude, artistic twins who were once incredibly close but are driven apart by jealousy, secrets, and a sudden family tragedy. Told in split timelines, the novel untangles the betrayals and misunderstandings that shattered their bond. It's a powerful, beautifully written story for older teens that explores sexuality, family dynamics, guilt, and the healing power of both art and forgiveness.
Features both straight and gay teen relationships, including kissing and romantic longing.
Moral AmbiguityModerate
Characters make significant, hurtful mistakes driven by jealousy, fear, and grief.
Substance ReferencesMild
Some scenes depict teens drinking alcohol at parties.
Sensitive Topics
The death of the twins' mother in a car accident is a central plot point, and the ensuing grief is explored directly and intensely. The novel also deals directly with parental infidelity. A primary storyline involves Noah's journey of discovering he is gay and navigating his first romance with a boy who is still in the closet. The book’s resolution is hopeful, as the twins find a way back to each other, but it realistically portrays healing as an ongoing process. The approach is secular.
Ideal Reader
An emotionally mature teen, age 14 to 18, who appreciates lyrical prose and complex, character-driven stories. It is perfect for a young artist, a teen questioning their sexuality, or anyone navigating complicated sibling dynamics or the loss of a loved one. The book validates the intensity of teenage emotions.
Parent Prep
Parents should be prepared for mature themes, including frank discussions of sexuality (both gay and straight relationships), the sudden death of a parent, parental infidelity, and some references to underage drinking. The emotional content is intense. The book can be read cold by a mature reader, but opening a conversation about these topics beforehand could be beneficial. A parent has noticed their teen becoming distant, especially from a sibling they were once close to. Or, their child is processing a significant loss and seems overwhelmed by guilt or sadness. A teen expressing feelings of being misunderstood or struggling with their identity or sexuality would also be a candidate for this book.
Age Experience
A younger teen (14-15) might focus on the exhilarating and painful aspects of first love and the potent sting of sibling jealousy in Noah’s timeline. An older teen (16-18) will likely have a deeper appreciation for the novel's intricate structure, the nuances of long-term grief in Jude's timeline, and the complex journey toward forgiveness and self-acceptance.
What Makes It Special
Its unique narrative structure, splitting the story into a “before” and “after” told by each twin, creates a compelling mystery from a family drama. The prose is exceptionally lyrical and metaphorical, elevating it beyond typical contemporary YA fiction. The integration of art as a language for emotion is a core, distinguishing feature.
Read plot summary
The story is told from two perspectives in alternating timelines. Noah narrates the “before” story at age 13, detailing his intense, secret first love for the boy next door, his artistic rivalry with his twin sister Jude, and the events leading up to their mother’s sudden death. Jude narrates the “after” story at age 16, struggling with guilt and grief, believing her mother’s ghost is sabotaging her art. She seeks out a reclusive sculptor as a mentor, unknowingly setting in motion a series of revelations that will force the twins to confront the secrets that tore them apart.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Noah and Jude each tell one half of their story. How did seeing the 'before' from Noah's perspective and the 'after' from Jude's change how you understood their individual actions and guilt?
2
Jude uses her grandmother's 'bible' of superstitions to navigate her life after her mom's death. Why do you think people turn to rituals when they feel like their lives are out of control?
3
Both twins are passionate artists. How do they use their art to express things they can't say out loud? Do you think their art helps them heal or does it sometimes hold them back?
4
A major turning point is when Noah lies to Guillermo about his parents' relationship. What were all the reasons he did this, and how did that one lie affect everyone's lives moving forward?
