A review by Betanda Shanam!
The Extraordinary Hope of Dawn Brightside
Jessica Ryn
May 28, 2020
Blurb: Dawn Elisabeth Brightside has been running from her past for twenty-two years and two months, precisely.
So when she is offered a bed in St Jude’s Hostel for the Homeless, it means so much more than just a roof over her head.
But with St Jude’s threatened with closure, Dawn worries that everything is about to crumble around her all over again.
Perhaps, with a little help from her new friends, she can find a way to save this light in the darkness?
And maybe, just maybe, Dawn will finally have a place to call home….
Betanda Shanam’s Review
“..most of us are only three steps away from homelessness.”
(The Extraordinary Hope of Dawn Brightside)
The truth of this quote is evident from many charity organisations who provide both short-term and long-term help to people who find themselves either homeless or impoverished. Many people who walk through their doors have had their home and family taken from them due to life events. This debut book by Jessica Rya gives the reader an insight into many of the problems faced by the homeless.
The story follows the main character, Dawn, who despite her struggles with her past, always sees the bright side of life. The book tells Dawn’s story, which is both emotional and inspiring. The other characters in the novel provide readers with a greater understanding of the effects of homelessness. Reminding us that while many homeless people turn to alcohol, drugs, or crime to survive, they are simply trying to get by, something many of us take for granted.
Whilst ‘The Extraordinary Hope of Dawn Brightside’ gives the reader an insight into many of the problems that can lead to homelessness and what it might be like to be homeless, it also tells a story of friendship and hope. This will pull at the heartstrings and leave you feeling uplifted. Jessica’s writing enables the reader to visualise the characters and scenery. The Extraordinary Hope of Dawn Brightside is a must read that will leave you feeling satisfied and thankful.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.