Finding Heart in "Chronically Dolores"
When I first stumbled upon Chronically Dolores by Alexandra Van Wagenen, I was immediately drawn in by its eloquent premise—especially since the author has drawn from her own experiences with chronic illness and neurodiversity. As someone who often relishes young adult literature that explores heavy themes through the authentic lens of adolescence, I was eager to see how Van Wagenen would merge such complex subjects with the relatable trials of a fourteen-year-old. Spoiler alert: it exceeded my expectations in ways I hadn’t anticipated.
At the heart of this novel is Dolores, a girl grappling with interstitial cystitis, an invisible illness that suddenly thrusts her into the spotlight of her peers’ awareness after an embarrassing incident. This resonates deeply, as it captures that painful yet relatable moment when vulnerability becomes public. The author adeptly navigates the intricacies of friendship and identity, particularly through Dolores’s interactions with her best friend Shae and a new acquaintance, Terpsichore, an autistic girl seeking acceptance in a daunting high school environment.
The pacing strikes a beautiful balance, allowing readers to immerse themselves fully in Dolores’s struggles while still keeping the narrative engaging. I found the mixed media format—incorporating script-like scenes—refreshing and innovative, enhancing the emotional layers of the story. There’s a real artistry in how Dolores’s voice comes through as genuine and not overly naïve. Van Wagenen captures that awkward yet earnest age of fourteen with grace and authenticity. It’s a sincere reflection of her own youth, making the reading experience both relatable and poignant.
One line that lingers in my mind is, "Forever is such a very long time to think about when you’ve only lived fourteen years." This encapsulates not just the gravity of Dolores’s internal monologue, but also the eternal struggle of trying to navigate relationships under the weight of one’s circumstances. The themes of friendship, self-acceptance, and the impact of chronic illness ripple through the pages and linger long after the last chapter.
What truly sets Chronically Dolores apart is its focus on disability representation without leaning on romance as a crutch. The friendships—so vital to the story—are portrayed with depth, especially as Dolores reconciles her relationships amid the complexity of her health issues. The diverse casting, from a Mexican main character to a German queer side character, not only enriches the narrative but also fosters a sense of belonging and understanding.
While Dolores’s journey is fraught with challenges, including a toxic family dynamic and bullying, the story manages to weave hope through its narrative fabric. It’s a testament to resilience that personal growth often comes amid turmoil, and wonderfully, we get to witness her acceptance of her disability.
In conclusion, Chronically Dolores is a remarkable read for those who appreciate YA fiction that isn’t afraid to tackle the heavy stuff while also shining light on friendship, acceptance, and the sometimes tough road to self-love. This book is perfect for young readers navigating their own complexities, as well as anyone who appreciates a well-crafted narrative that champions diversity and authenticity. If you’re seeking a story that stays with you long after you’ve finished, this gem is a must-read. Trust me, it’s a beautiful addition to any young adult bookshelf—or any reader’s heart.