Young writers share stories inspired by their experiences of life during the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Ten Washington, D.C., residents in their late teens and early 20s collaborated to produce short fiction pieces, organized chronologically and divided into the four seasons, that reflect upon the events of 2020. Noted YA author and National Book Award finalist Candice Iloh’s foreword speaks to the impact of lockdowns on creative people and how these stressors show up in this volume that offers readers the experience of “holding a collection of hope in your hands.” Each piece is deeply influenced by the writer’s personal history, and their narratives focus on both human connection and systemic inequities. Struggles are balanced by support from friends and family: The underlying threads of “love, trust, understanding, joy, and community” shine through. The contributors’ backgrounds reflect the diversity of the city and add depth to the portrayals in stories that feature positive resolutions while not shying away from exploring relationship woes, a friend’s suicide, mental health concerns, confusion, fear, uncertainty, grief, and protests against police brutality sparked by the killing of George Floyd. A common theme is new gratitude for how things were before and all the normal times that now feel so distant. Illustrations by five artists include gray-tone drawings and simulated social media posts tracking the progress of the pandemic.
An authentic and sincere expression of young people’s anguished yet optimistic outlooks.
(sources, about the authors and illustrators) (Anthology. 13-18)