Monday, October 13, 2014

A new student review of Little Fish: A Memoir from a Different Kind of Year by Ramsey Beyer

Gwendolyn posted a new student review of Little Fish: A Memoir from a Different Kind of Year by Ramsey Beyer. See the full review.

This deeply self-reflective autobiography is an interesting scrapbook of lists, notes, cartoons, and diary entries, providing a fun and intimate perspective into the author's life. I couldn't have discovered Little Fish: A Memoirs from a Different Kind of Year at a more relevant time in my life. In short, this graphic novel sheds light on Ramsey's experiences as she heads to college. She is excited for the opportunities, independence, and knowledge that college will bring, but also terrified and daunted by adulthood. Through fluctuating moods, the drastic lack of friends and family, and an overabundance of schoolwork and intimidating professors, I found Ramsey's experiences and self-advice to be wise and comforting. This book showcases experiences that I think we can all relate to at some point in our lives, but something that has become quite real for me just recently. I was shocked at how many thoughts are currently going through my head about my future that this book touches upon. I often find myself baffled at my own generation and unable to connect or relate to things that are familiar to my age group. Although slightly different, I think that Ramsey has somewhat similar feelings in certain instances. In addition, I love the cover of this book because I feel that it perfectly expresses the tone and message of it. Although an angst-ridden story, I was pleasantly surprised with the fact that Ramsey has a rather optimistic perspective. Even when she's not her happiest, the wiser side to Ramsey tries to find the positives in each negative situation. In conclusion, as an avid list maker, writer, daydreamer, and a highly introspective person, I found this book to be quite enjoyable to read.