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Jul 31, 2017RosaReads2 rated this title 5 out of 5 stars
The Names They Gave Us is a fabulous story! It's been awhile since I couldn't put a book down without a looming review deadline. I have only read one other book by Emery Lord (The Start of Me and You) and while I enjoyed it, this one has me extra excited to read the rest of her back list. Lucy was an amazing protagonist with a compelling voice. I love it when a book has a strong female lead that is consistent and gets stronger as the story progresses. That defines Lucy to a tee. The rest of the characters are a secondary ensemble that support and strengthen Lucy's journey, but are in no way any less important. There are light romantic elements within the book, but the strong friendships are what carry the story. That and the faith element. Lucy is a Christian and with myself being a Christian, I appreciate the care and respect that Emery Lord used with those elements. I can get nervous when reading what some might define as a "secular" story, but have Christian elements/characters. I worry about it looking satirical or as a parody. This was neither. Christianity, along with other faiths are respectfully written about showing the imperfections of all people regardless of religious faith. Since Lucy's mother has cancer, that illness is also a big theme throughout the story. Her mom's cancer is actually the precursor to Lucy questioning God and her beliefs. Again, deftly handled with a beautifully open-ended finish to Lucy's story. An Inspiring, encouraging and gorgeously written YA novel that (I feel) has universal age appeal.