Dive: A Novel

Dive is a truly poignant book about love and loss, friendship and family. The story revolves around Virginia, a 15yo girl who is going through one of the worst times of her life. And because personal tragedy is never enough, just about everything around her seems to be rising against her. Isn't that the way it always seems to be in life? This truly is what made the book so relevant to me as a reader, a person has been through their own fair share of loss and personal tragedy. Perhaps because of that, I read this a little differently. For me, it was the feeling of not being alone.This is a book that is extremely character-driven. We spend the book inside the head of Virginia, feeling her confusion, her pain, and even her moments of joy and happiness. Through her we get to know her parents, her siblings, and her friends. And every one of them is a very different person. Her mother is a bit of a drinker and that is getting worse by the day, putting Virginia in positions she should never have to be in at her age. Her father seems to be a bit on the oblivious even before he becomes so sick. Her brother Edward (and I love the random use of rude takes on his name throughout the book) is pretty apathetic most of the time. But it is her little sister, Baby Teeth, that shines. She is smart and quirky and, in some ways, the true heart of the book. Virginia is understandably overwhelmed and I think she spends much of her time a bit emotionally. And if all of her family problems aren't enough, her dog is run over and her best friend starts being unreasonably mean and avoiding her, just when Virginia needs her the most. But then there is Jane, who unwittingly becomes Virginia's anchor.At the center of the story is Virginia's fear and sadness. It is overwhelming and pervasive, just as it is in real life. She is barraged with so many things, each one of them enough to take her down by itself. But she is dealing with all of it all at the same time all by herself. There were moments that this was not an easy read because of the depth of the emotions, but it is a powerful read. It is also a read with unexpectedly funny moments and moments of happiness and joy. It is a book that truly gives you the feels!I gave this 4.5 mugs!

The flowing prose in Dive makes it an easy read, though it addresses heavy topics, such as loss and the sheer discomfort of coming of age. Insightful and subtle, it's an excellent novel for both the teen/YA audience, as well as adult fiction fans. It brought me right back to that time of self discovery and questioning one's place in the world.

My high school students read Stacey Donovan's beautifully written novel last summer in a Zoom English essay class. Then the author was kind enough to visit the class and have an informal discussion about the story and characters. Many were moved by how adeptly she handled issues of death and dying, others eagerly asked about the relationship between the central character, an initially shy girl, and a new, more outward girl. Donovan is especially gifted in reaching into the deepest thoughts of a young girl to reveal her grit, fierce voice, and blossoming autonomy. My students even wrote Stacey sweet thank-you letters. The whole experience was the highlight of their - and my - summer. This is a writer of true integrity, and I, for one, can't wait for her to produce a second novel for young readers. Thank you, Stacey!

Really enjoyed this very insightful novel of a teenage girl going through some very devastating events in her life. She is having to navigate without the help of her parents who are lost in their own problems. The author captures the thoughts and feelings of Virginia so perfectly as she faces these problems head on while also trying to protect and nurture her little sister, Baby Teeth. I love the author's descriptions and choice of words. She makes the ordinary so interesting, memorable, and laugh-out- loud funny. V's younger sister "Baby Teeth wedged several Raisinets up her preschool nose." Laughed so hard! Highly recommend this book.

This book dragged for most of it and then the ending felt rushed. Things that shouldn't have been stretched were so so stretched out. Just bad.

This is a powerful, deeply moving story that shares the struggles of a young girl, “V”, whose challenges go beyond typical teenage angst. She faces several crises at the same time: an injured dog, a mother who’s too fond of drink, a father who is battling illness, and a friend who is avoiding her. Add to that the discovery of her emerging sexuality and V’s plate is full. Her courage and strength of character as she comes to terms with all of this is inspiring. Donovan’s writing is sublime, often poetic, and filled with quirky, amusing surprises.

Lovely character development but did not reach the depth I anticipated about key people in V's life, such as her mother. Great subject, painted teenage struggles with empathy. I wanted to know what happened a month from the conclusion.... Six months.... A year....

I truly enjoyed the story of first love and first heartbreak written in a gorgeous lyrical prose that sweeps the reader into the story. A great read for women young and old, as it speaks to the tender hear within each of us. I unreservedly recommend this fine, fine novel to any and all. Enjoy!

The mileage Stacey Donovan can achieve with a name. Edward, Edwad, the wad, and Baby Teeth to describe siblings personalities is clever. The title 'Dive' had me hooked as to why it was chosen, pulling me along through the story full of insights from someone who has experienced and then stood alongside to observe. 'Dive', a great life lesson therein. Skilfully well-written to deliver perspective. To be so self-aware at such a young age speaks of the depth and personhood of the author.