Dear Edward by Ann Napolitano

“Since death is certain, but the time of death is uncertain, what is the most important thing?” - Ann Napolitano, Dear Edward

Dear Edward by Ann Napolitano revolves around the twelve-year-old Edward who is the sole survivor of a horrendous plane crash that kills all the passengers, including his family. Grappling with bereavement, grief, survivor guilt, and identity crisis, Edward tries to navigate his new life with his aunt and uncle, and the newfound friendship with his next-door neighbour Shay - an endearingly quirky girl.

Ann Napolitano tells the story through two different timelines: during the flight and after the plane crash. This dual-timeline structure infuses the novel with suffocating suspense and mystery as the readers anticipate the cataclysm and its ruinous aftermath. This structural format also provides a glimpse into the stories of a few passengers - an injured soldier struggling with his sexuality, an old magnate disgruntled with his crippling illness, a young entrepreneur (desperately) trying to flirt with the stewardess. Napolitano expertly weaves a tapestry of humanity, a miniature society within the confines of an aircraft. Despite dealing with heavy subjects, the author does not fall into the pitfall of sensationalisation. She manages to narrate even the most harrowing scenes with grace and raw honesty. With its masterful pacing and compassionate portrayal of post-traumatic experiences, Dear Edward is truly the epitome of an emotional rollercoaster.