Moving story about conjoined twins narrated by both girls. I absolutely loved the relationship between the Ruby and Rose and how they were “conjoined” in ways other than physically. The author did an excellent job of explaining their challenges, feelings, and differences. One of my favorite parts was when Rose expressed mild stress that people WEREN’T staring at them. I thought it was extremely poignant and realistic. Also, the play between the girls’ individuality (they were considered the town “mascot” – in singular) and the significance of their conjoined situation was particularly engaging. It was clear they wouldn’t have wanted to be separated even if it was possible. Indeed Rose referenced a story in which one twin was “sacrificed” to give the other a “normal” life. When the girl woke from the surgery she referred to her missing sister as “me.” (Tears here).

That said, the story was very slow moving at times and I felt much of the back story was unnecessary. Entire paragraphs were (written in parentheses) and I had to force myself to read them. Also, for a twenty-nine year old woman, I found Ruby’s voice childish at times. I felt bogged down in the middle and it took me longer to read this than most books, despite the (relatively) short length.

I can definitely see why this received so many positive reviews and the book had many memorable parts, but it just didn’t work all the way around for me.