Baby Got Books

Revolution (The French One)

I don’t normally pick up YA books, because frankly, I don’t want to read about depressed teenagers. But when Jen told me about Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly (one of her favs of 2010) I couldn’t wait to read it.

The story begins with plenty of teenage angst – which Jen assured me that I could get through. The main character, Andi, is trying to come to terms with a recent tragedy in her life and may not graduate from her prestigious high school.

The tragic event didn’t just result in Andi battling internal guilt, it affected the entire family. Her mother has become withdrawn and secluded and her re-married father uncommunicative. Dad decides to take Andi to Paris with him in order for her to focus on her Senior Thesis - a graduation requirement. He happens to be in Paris working as a world renowned DNA scientist to determine if a jarred heart does indeed belong to Louis-Charles, the son of guillotined King Louis XVI during the French Revolution.

Within the first few days in Paris, Andi discovers in a hidden compartment of an old violin case, a diary belonging to a girl who was a companion to the young dauphin while he lived at Versailles and during his captivity in Paris. The girl, Alexandrine Paradis, recorded her adventures as the French Revolution exploded and gained momentum in 1795.

Revolution takes us on a wonderful journey into present day Paris including hip clubs and parties in the Catacombs. Through Alexandrine’s diary, Ms. Donnelly masterfully transports us back in time to the Paris of 1795, during the last days of the monarchy and through the Reign of Terror.

At one point Andi time travels back to 1795 and I thought “oh no, this isn’t going to be good” but I was pleasantly surprised. The time travel was done exceptionally well and describes a vivid picture of life during 1795. If you think rotting teeth, stench and lice are glamorous then the Court of Versailles was for you. During this exciting adventure she is immediately connected to someone who is very important to her current research. (I can’t give away the details.) When she introduces this person to her ipod and the music of Led Zepplin and RadioHead, I laughed because that would be so cool! I would love to go back to different places in history, but only knowing that I could return to the present.

Unfortunately, time travel is not realistic, but who cares? I felt like I was transported – I couldn’t put this book down. Revolution is a fun novel. Not only does Ms. Donnelly treat us to an important part of French history, she adds plenty of teenage drama and musical variety for everyone to enjoy.

Books, Fiction, Review | Anne | January 25, 2011 8:27 am

2 Comments

By jen, January 25, 2011 @ 7:44 pm

I’m so glad you liked this book! Since it’s a YA book, I’m always curious to know if any real life young adults have read and enjoyed it. So, YA readers, now’s your chance to chime in.