Author: Sara Flannery Murphy
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Have you heard of the concept of Parthenogenesis?
Girl One by Sara Flannery Murphy explores the story
of nine “miracle babies” who were raised by nine women on an experimental
commune. Everything was going well until one day a fire destroys the commune
and the girls scatter around the country and lose touch with each other. Years
later, Josephine’s mother is missing and to find her, she would have to find
her remaining sisters and face the truth of what happened on the Homestead all
those years ago. There is only one way she could face the truth that awaits
her-together with her sisters. The question is would she be able to accept it,
or would it change her view of the world and the person she idolizes forever?
The concept that the book explores is quite innovative and the idea of parthenogenesis is something I had just heard of and never understood in detail. Sara takes this scientific aspect and weaves a tale that incorporates thrill along with an aspect that is almost divine, which I would not like to mention in my review as it is one of the best revelations in the story. The storytelling is engaging that makes you turn the page and undertake Josephine’s journey with her. Another aspect of Girl One that I loved was the almost maze-like experience with twists and turns every few pages which will incite emotions ranging from awe to anger to love. There is no point in the story that seems disconnected or a filler. Each chapter in the book is relevant. This is a story that will take its own time to be read and while it is a long book, it is my recommendation that you follow the story through and not rush through it to understand what the author is trying to convey. The social message that jumps out is subtle, very subtle, from between the lines but would make you wonder who was the one in the right at the end. The climax is chilling and deserves a specific mention because it brings the story of the Homestead Girls to a close in a beautiful manner.
Coming to the characters, Girl One is a story
that works primarily because of strong characterization. From Josephine to Cate
and Dr. Bellanger, each of the characters have a separate character arc,
independent of each other, yet intertwined somehow. Sara’s characters take time
to evolve into what she wants and that is a journey that this book encompasses.
None of the characters are at extremes and are equal measures of strength and
weakness. I loved how Josephine’s character starts out and as she starts
experiencing the events, her outlook changes, yet the initial innocence still
lurks around. Another interesting I liked was that of Cate and how her
relationship with Josie evolves and changes. Thomas’s role as the reporter is
commendable, specially how he adds value to the group.
Overall, Girl One is a story that needs to be
read, understood, and imbibed for it talks about something very primal and
basic. The book scores a 4.94/5 for me.
Thank you Bloomsbury India for sending over the beautiful Proof for review!
Get your copies of the book here.
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