panThe book deserves credit for tackling important, often taboo topics like mental illness and generational trauma, particularly within the Black community. That said, its execution falls short. The fantasy elements are vague, the worldbuilding lacks depth, and key terms are poorly explained. With so many competing themes, none are given the depth they deserve.
McBride illustrates Whimsy‘s depression through bold language, shifting structure, and layout. Parentheses echo intrusive thoughts, while her right-aligned dialogue visually sets her apart, showing her sense of isolation. Sudden changes in structure reflect the confusion and unpredictability of recovery. I have never read a book formatted in such a way before.
so-soMcBride weaves a beautiful story about perseverance. The fantastical elements were not my cup of tea; however, I could see many YA readers enjoying this book. My favorite part of McBride's novel is the final message that one is never alone. Mental illness is often a struggle behind closed doors, but there is always someone rooting for you. I would love to include this novel in my classroom library and recommend it to my whimsy-loving students.
McBride's novel appeals to so many students with her characters. Mental health conditions and prejudice against black kids are at the forefront of the novel, but are not overwhelming for adolescent minds. These issues are not sugarcoated, yet they are not made too graphic for YA readers. McBride's novel encourages adolescents to learn about issues which, in turn, encourages them to use their voices for change.
pickA beautifully written book! I went in blind so I wasn't expecting a novel in verse at first, but I LOVED it and think it was a great medium to highlight all of the symbols, metaphors, and emotions of Whimsy and Faerry's story. I also appreciate McBride bringing in many diverse cultural allusions and practices to Whimsy's life and her healing journey that help make her HER and teach her valuable lessons. “The only way out is through.“ ❤️
One thing I loved about this book was the attention it brought to Black mental health. Unfortunately, people of color are not as widely recognized for their mental health issues because of past (and ongoing) racial prejudice, but this book highlights their struggles and journeys navigating this complex topic. The fantastical garden allegory and inclusion of Black spirituality made this discussion unique but also digestable for younger audiences!
I noted an activity idea inspired by something from one of my classes that could work with this book too! Just like Whimsy calls upon fairy tale/myth/folklore characters with their own lessons that help her, students could research their own character, find a lesson they could teach or advice they could give for their IRL lives, and then write a letter or advice column “from“ that character. Maybe Whimsy's reflection strategy could help them too!
“The only way out is through.“
What a line! In dealing with difficult emotions and anxiety, the only (true) way to escape them and be free is to face them head on. I think this line works well with the magical realism elements too, and the ominous forest is a cool thing to relate mental health issues too. When one finds themselves in the woods, the only way to get out is to go through the woods; the same applies to mental health issues.
