As I mentioned earlier, this story takes place in the 50s, to New Orleans, the United States, and highlights the dark side of this southern city. The climate that emerges from this novel is rather dark, oppressive enough, both intriguing but disturbing. Ruta Sepetys decided to develop his characters in disreputable streets which combines brothels, bars and malicious crooks. All the conditions are there to scare the reader of this city, or at least this one area, the French Quarter, commonly called the Old Square.
But through this poor life, where frequent prostitutes and murderers and where easy money falls freely, a young girl, also living in the same neighborhood, will stand out. Josie, as everyone calls Jo, works in a bookstore, to Patrick's side, and her father, Charlie. From its seventeen years, she has only one goal: from here, as far as possible, to get out and not end up like her mother. For his mother, shameful as it is, is a prostitute since Josie was born, and never brought him any attention. Far from blame her, she still despises for his depraved attitude which gives no respect or to herself, much less to others.
Ruta Sepetys will immerse ourselves fully in the heart of this neighborhood life in the bowels brothels and poorly frequented streets. Only small dose of a little gay hope is the desire to Josie to get away, to become someone else, and not to follow the footsteps of his mother. His strength of character will carry it extreme, but it still will remember his supreme wait leak. Unfortunately for her, when starting so low, the chances of success are minimal or almost inexistences. She will face all the difficulties that form obstacles to success, along with the precious help of his friends, Willie, Patrick, Cookie, Jesse, and many others.
Although a person smarter than the average seen, within this neighborhood (or at least a person who gives more way to get there), wants viewed as different, as the paradox between life they lead is far from the dream life that Josie.
Immersion in this world is total, and the emotions felt by the reader are doubly multiplied. The characters themselves are moving, both by their simplicity, their personality, or even their lives, they do not often chosen. Secondly, the story told is overwhelming. The author seeks to convey a message of hope to show the world with insurance, envy and atmosphere, everything is possible and achievable.
/! \ Small spoiler! In conclusion, we sadly realized that Josie was not successful in achieving its ultimate goal of entering university of Smith College. But she has not given up so far, she has not resigned, and successful to be happy, despite that, and continue her life, full of dreams and ideals. /! \ End of spoiler!
This novel should be read, just to discover the framework it contains. The message is so powerful and encouraging, after that, who dares give up without trying, will have to deal with me!
A beautiful lesson in humanity, in a world where the same word is banned.
