Every Time You Hear That Song: A Journey of Heart and Home
When I first picked up Every Time You Hear That Song by Jenna Voris, I had no idea just how profoundly it would resonate with me. As someone who grew up in the small towns of Arkansas, I found myself welcoming this book into my life at the perfect moment—one where nostalgia and yearning for home weighed heavily on my heart. Voris masterfully captures the essence of leaving your roots behind while navigating the complexities of growing up, identity, and ambition. It’s a poignant exploration that feels both timeless and incredibly personal.
At its core, Every Time You Hear That Song tells the story of two queer teenagers, Darren and Decklee, as they navigate their paths from a small town to the vibrant scenes of Memphis and Nashville. Their journeys are filled with the kind of heart and ambition that tug at your very core. I was moved to tears right from the first chapter, and the emotional layering continued as their stories unfolded. Voris paints a vivid picture of their lives, illustrating the weight of their decisions and the impact of the people around them. Each character serves a purpose, woven together into a rich tapestry that depicts the intricate dance of friendship, heartache, and self-discovery.
What stood out for me particularly was Voris’ writing style. The prose flows effortlessly, filled with lyrical beauty and touches of humor. The pacing kept me engaged, allowing for introspection and reflection at just the right moments. I often found myself smiling at the delightful escapades, like the scavenger hunt Darren and Kendall undertake, which added a lighthearted counterbalance to the weightier themes of the book. There’s a spark in Voris’ ability to reflect on the challenges of queer identity within the Southern landscape, a reality often overlooked but profoundly felt.
One quote that particularly resonated was the exploration of one’s relationship with home: “You carry your town with you, no matter how far you go.” This reflection stuck with me, reminding me that while I may be thousands of miles away from my own roots, they still shape who I am. Voris tackles the complexity of small-town life; it can be suffocating yet beautiful, and this duality is something I’ve grappled with throughout my own life.
If you are someone who cherishes heartfelt stories that deftly explore queer identity, the struggles of adolescence, and the idea of home, then this book is for you. It’s a celebration of growth and connection, of understanding where you’ve come from while still daring to dream of where you can go.
In conclusion, Every Time You Hear That Song is not just a book; it’s an experience—one that invites you into the depths of your emotions and reminds you about the beauty of connection. This is undoubtedly one of my favorite reads of the year, and I can’t recommend it enough. Jenna Voris has created a masterpiece that I will carry with me, much like the town I grew up in and the memories that shape me. Whether you’re at home or far away, this book will resonate in ways you didn’t know you needed.
Discover more about Every Time You Hear That Song on GoodReads >>