The List of Suspicious Things by Jennie Godfrey: A Review

Plot Summary

“The List of Suspicious Things” by Jennie Godfrey is a coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of the Yorkshire Ripper’s reign of terror in 1970s England. The protagonist, Miv, is a young girl whose life is overshadowed by her mother’s mental illness and her father’s increasing detachment. Feeling unnoticed and unloved, Miv finds solace only in her friendship with Sharon. When Miv overhears her father discussing a potential move due to the Ripper’s proximity, she becomes distraught at the prospect of losing Sharon. Fueled by a desire to prevent the move and a childlike determination to make a difference, Miv, along with Sharon, creates a “List of Suspicious Things” in an attempt to find and expose the Ripper themselves. Their amateur investigation leads them through a series of events, unveiling secrets and revealing unexpected truths about their community and themselves.

Overall Thoughts and Feelings

This novel is an engaging and heartwarming read, filled with nostalgia and a touch of suspense. Godfrey expertly captures the innocence and anxieties of childhood, creating a protagonist in Miv who is both relatable and endearing. The story is a beautiful blend of mystery, friendship, and family drama, all set against a chilling historical backdrop. I found myself completely invested in Miv’s journey and deeply moved by her struggles and triumphs.

Writing Style, Character Development, and Literary Themes

Godfrey’s writing style is reminiscent of Joanna Cannon, particularly in its ability to portray complex emotions through the lens of a child’s perspective. The narrative is straightforward yet evocative, using vivid imagery to bring the 1970s setting to life. The characters are well-developed and believable, each with their own quirks and vulnerabilities. Miv’s character arc is particularly compelling as she navigates the challenges of family dysfunction, the complexities of friendship, and the fear instilled by the Ripper’s crimes.

The novel explores several themes, including:

  • Friendship: The bond between Miv and Sharon is central to the story, highlighting the importance of companionship and support during difficult times.
  • Family: The novel delves into the complexities of family relationships, exploring themes of illness, grief, and the search for connection.
  • Loss of Innocence: Miv’s journey is one of growing up and facing the harsh realities of the world, including the presence of evil and the fallibility of adults.
  • Community: The novel examines the impact of fear and suspicion on a close-knit community, as well as the potential for kindness and resilience.

Pacing and Structure

The pacing of the story is well-balanced, alternating between moments of suspense, heartwarming interactions, and introspective reflection. The structure of the novel, told from Miv’s point of view, allows the reader to experience the world through her eyes, creating a sense of intimacy and empathy. The plot held my interest throughout, with enough twists and turns to keep me engaged without feeling contrived.

Use of Language and Imagery

Godfrey’s use of language is both precise and evocative, creating vivid imagery that transports the reader back to the 1970s. She captures the nuances of childhood dialogue and the unspoken emotions of adults with skill and sensitivity.

Emotional Impact

The book evokes a range of emotions, from nostalgia and amusement to sadness and fear. Miv’s struggles with her mother’s illness and her feelings of loneliness are particularly moving, while the suspense surrounding the Ripper adds a layer of tension to the story. The novel also provokes thought about the impact of fear on individuals and communities.

Themes and Messages

Godfrey successfully conveys several important messages, including the importance of empathy, the power of friendship, and the resilience of the human spirit. She also explores the impact of social anxieties and cultural norms on individuals and communities.

Strengths and Weaknesses

The strengths of the novel lie in its compelling characters, evocative setting, and well-balanced plot. The author’s ability to capture the voice of a child protagonist is particularly impressive. One minor weakness might be that the ending, while satisfying, felt slightly rushed.

Recommendations

I would highly recommend “The List of Suspicious Things” to readers who enjoy coming-of-age stories, historical fiction, and books that explore themes of friendship, family, and community. Those who enjoyed “The Trouble with Goats and Sheep” by Joanna Cannon are also likely to appreciate this novel.

Comparison to Other Works

As mentioned previously, the novel shares similarities with “The Trouble with Goats and Sheep” by Joanna Cannon in its use of a child’s perspective to explore complex themes within a community setting.

Rating

I would give “The List of Suspicious Things” a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. It is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant novel that will stay with you long after you finish reading.

Where to Get It

  • My Ebook (Check for availability)
  • Amazon
  • Barnes & Noble
  • Local bookstores