The Eye of the Storm

Cara Ferguson

Burn For Burn

written by Jenny Han and Siobhan Vivian

Welcome to Jar Island High School: the center of jealousy, rivalries, and betrayal. The novel is told from three different perspectives: narrated by Lillia, Kat, and Mary. All of these girls are pulled together by the string of lies spread by their peers. The story of their high school experience mixed with the themes of friendship, lust, and temptation create an alluring novel that entertains the young adult audience while also reflecting the reality of adolescence.

Although this book is enjoyable and interesting, the plot tends to be drawn out due to the shifting perspectives.  As you are reading the novel, you will read about Lillian’s internal struggle with her relationship with her younger sister, then in an instant are thrown into Kat’s frustration with her damaged reputation. It takes the reader extra time just to catch up on what is happening, and what has already happened. It is very unique for an author to include this type of narrative; it adds complexity to the storyline while also allowing for several instances of dramatic irony to take place.

Another point worthy to note is the extremity of the feelings shared by each of the characters. Logic seems to fly out the window in many scenarios throughout the novel, especially when emotions come into play. The three main girls, for example, are consumed by either their resentment or anger towards their peers. While the heightened emotions do add to the plot, at certain points it is unnecessary and takes away from the story development. The author tries to make it relatable but also forgets that not every girl is the head cheerleader whose sister is sleeping with her best friend. It seems to be unclear exactly what tone the author has, and this can be attributed to the shifting perspectives. Once again, the creative idea to utilize all of the characters ends up becoming very dull and confusing over time.

I would recommend this book. Despite its downfalls, the plot is intriguing. I hope that as the story progresses, it will all tie together in the end. The style of writing is very descriptive and captures the reader within only a couple pages. The storytelling narrative draws the reader in, making them feel as if they’re a bystander to all the drama taking place.

As Kat tells Mary “Karma’s a bitch. He’ll get his” Prepare yourself, because there’s a storm brewing on Jar Island, and not everyone may escape the destruction. Are you brave enough to jump into the eye of the hurricane?