Great book. Sad but hopeful. Edward is on a plane with his family, both parents and an older brother, when he is 12. The plane crashes and 191 people die. Edward is the only survivor. Chapters alternate between the plane flight and the next six years of Edward's life. His grieving process, his family and friends, and how he finds the strength to live again and forge a new path. And make good out of his new world.
Helpful Score: 3
Read this one because it's wonderful in a haunting, traumatic sort of way. It's the type of book that leaves a lasting impression. The tale toggles between past and present, which turned out to be really effective. It was like two tales at once, both equally riveting for different reasons. I began to dread the intimate accounts of the passengers on the flight in the final countdown to the crash. Those affected me deeply. All the what-ifs. In some sections, it was a tough and emotional read. And a novel that compels me to delve into the actual events that were the inspiration behind the work make it especially memorable. 4.5 stars.
Helpful Score: 2
Dear Edward tells the story of a 12 year old who is the sole survivor of a plane crash that kills the rest of his family. The story is told in chapters that alternate between the flight and Edward's life after the crash. Edward's story was sad and moving, but much of the plane portions focused on other people on the flight. I didn't feel much of a connection to the other characters, as not enough of their stories were told to have much emotional resonance. Although sad, the story is ultimately hopeful.
