The Art of Escaping

Librarian: This is a fun, breezy YA novel. It's got a decent (if not spectacular) plot, and a decent (if not spectacular) premise. Honestly, I think that the decision regarding whether or not you should order this one depends entirely on what you know about the interests of your library community. At my last library there was a huge interest in magic and escapology, so for that library this would be an excellent book to add to the collection. At the library before that, there was little interest in the subject so the decision about whether or not to buy it would need to be determined by how many new contemporary YA novels were needed in the collection. At the moment, my library needs more in this genre, so purchase is a no brainer. Reader: I have always enjoyed stories that center around the world of stage magic, and escapology. This one is no exception. I found myself immediately drawn into the world, and I fell in love with the characters with a speed that surprised me. I'll definitely be looking for more books by Erin Callahan in the future.

*I received a copy from NetGalley for a honest review* I liked the concept of the book, however I couldn't make it more than halfway through. I dnfed this book at about 40%. Unfortunately this book was not for me. I just couldn't connect to the characters at all and the plot line was personally just a mess. While, I think many people will enjoy this book and it could be an underrated favorite for some; I just couldn't connect well. This may be because of the e-book format, so I'm open to a rereading this in a physical format. I gave what I read 2 stars for the potential it could have as a diverse contemporary novel.

I’m very glad I finally read this! I got an e-arc of this from net galley maybe five years ago??? I finally started it on a plane ride a week ago and now I’m bawling my eyes over the end. I’ve heard of so many YA contemporary that are advertised by their winning friend group and have never been surprised with an actually good one. This might be the first one that actually had that friend group. And it was cringey but I still loved it. All of these characters are just so solid and fun. And I love Miyu forever. The miary entries were really getting to me towards the end wowow.

The Art of Escaping is a noticeably short novel about a girl named Mattie who is not only obsessed with the Jazz Age, but in escape artist Akiko, and her daughter who resides in the house her mother left behind in her passing. Mattie doesn't know what she wants to do after graduating, even less sure about what school she'll go to, but she goes to Miyu at her feet and begs to be taught how to be an escape artist. Along with her new friend Will with Two Ls, who has a secret of his own, it's a coming of age mixed in with found friendship and high hopes. Mattie learns courage and hard work through her passion, what she wants to do with her life and how it inspires her, but she also encourages others including her friends and older brother into taking action. This was an incredibly cute story for the most part. I enjoyed how quirky Mattie was, and loved the no-nonsense acceptance of everyone and everything around her. While I was worried that Will's POV of the story would just be a gimmick, that his story would be more plot twist and fan-girl worthy, I was delighted to see it wasn't like that, and I appreciated that and how the author went about characters responding and dealing with his lies and secrets, which isn't as serious as I make it sound. This novel was sometimes light, with some heavier topics, and should be read with the knowledge that it isn't entirely meant to be taken seriously. Those who get frustrated by manic pixie fix-it-scenes should stay away. Suspend your belief kids. I did put this down for a bit but I'm glad I finished it, it honestly doesn't take long at all. My favorite parts happened to be the Miary, Miyu's diary written in the POV of her mother as a diary written in Miyu's own account of events. I enjoyed the family and friend dynamics. However, sometimes the scenes felt choppy, and the dialogue a bit stiff. However, it did not take too much away from the experience. Overall it was really good and I recommend it to anyone who likes young adult... but make it weird. Into Houdini? Chris Angel? More Houdini but you know what I mean. You'd like it. Give it a try! It's super cute and easy to read, overall really enjoyable. Have fun!

Blog | Twitter | Instagram | (3.5) Review also found here. As a note, an e-galley of this novel was sent to me via NetGalley by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not effect my opinions in any way. The Art of Escaping was a very promising release from the start. While I can't say that I loved every little thing about the novel itself, and it had some moments that rubbed me the wrong way, it was still quite enjoyable and I appreciate it for what it accomplishes. Plus, the underlying message behind it--about high school life, escaping the ordinary life we all have to eventually face--is something anyone can relate to. Something that is essential to YA is that the characters be obtainable and Callahan crafts a set of characters that is easy to connect with at any age. Even if you don't relate to their reasoning, you can certainly relate to their desires to escape and not face certain things just yet. I was the same way as a teenage and find myself even now in my 20s looking for ways to just... avoid. The Art of Escaping is universal in many ways. I found myself enjoying the characters more than the plot itself but, I think, this may be because I felt a little too disconnected with certain elements. It's hard to explain. But, Mattie, our main character, is someone I grew to really adore even if the story wasn't wholly for me. I found myself wondering if Mattie was my favourite character or Miyu. Will, too, is a great and emotionally complex character and rounds out the cast very well--I can't pinpoint my exact feelings towards him, but I liked the various traits of all three in particular. The Art of Escaping is, ultimately, a coming of age story that captures the highs and lows of your teenage years wonderfully. Erin Callahan is a voice to look out for.