Shine

[Nolan]

Shine

Have you ever felt like it was you against the world or had the feeling that you must do what is right even if it will cost you in the end? Cat Robinson faces this exact dilemma in Lauren Myracle’s novel, Shine. Cat makes the decision to launch her own investigation into a brutal, homophobic hate crime against her former friend Patrick Truman. The story takes place in a small North Carolina town called Black Creek. Since Cat’s little neighborhood is full of bigotry and discrimination, her task of uncovering the true perpetrators behind Patrick’s attack is made that much harder. Shine is the perfect book for those who love mystery, and it bares many similarities to Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird. The entire premise of the book is about “shining” light on the importance of justice.

In my opinion, Shine is perhaps one of the most powerful stories I have ever read. There are several elements that make this story so impactful. First, the author uses a lot of imagery and symbolism to emphasize the book’s main themes. Second, the plot is simple and resembles that of other mystery novels, but still excels at telling a heartfelt and intense story. Next, characters (including Cat, Patrick, Beef, and Christian to name just a few) are complex, flawed individuals who still manage to inspire empathy from the reader. Lastly, the book’s big twist is shocking yet just right, and the details leading up to it fit perfectly into the story. From start to finish, Shine ties up all lose ends, finishes each of the characters’ arcs, and satisfies the reader with its conclusion. Shine perfectly embodies the ideals of compassion and justice.
Still, the question of whether justice will be served can only be answered by reading this novel.


My website:
https://catandpatrickinasmalltown.wee...

Related articles:
https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.alja...

https://www.google.com/amp/s/abcnews....
The two news articles I included deal with the topics of hate crimes and how they are still present in today’s society.

Book review:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/entert...

This review is brief and effective.
The author talks about how at first she didn’t want to read the book claiming it to be stereotypical growing up in the rural south but she eventually read it. They then go into a short summary of the book with no spoilers and give a positive review and a joking stereotype of herself to show it has her approval.