These Are Not the Words

In the 1960s, a girl in New York City discovers her parents' flaws and finds the courage to make a fresh start. Her mother returns to school to become an artist, while her father works in advertising and introduces her to jazz. They write poems for each other, but her father's addiction takes over. When they decide to move, Missy must leave everything behind and become a latchkey kid. Despite the challenges, she perseveres to save her family.

Format: Hardback
Length: 195 pages
Publication date: 19 May 2022
Publisher: Groundwood Books Ltd ,Canada

In the vibrant and bustling city of New York during the 1960s, a young girl named Missy embarks on a transformative journey of self-discovery. Through her eyes, she sees her parents as flawed human beings, recognizing their imperfections for the first time. This newfound understanding ignites a courage within her, prompting her to embark on a fresh start.

Missys mother, driven by her passion for art, returns to school to pursue her dreams. Meanwhile, her father, working in advertising, takes Missy on secret midnight excursions to Harlem and the Village, sharing his love for jazz. They exchange poems, which gradually evolve into an exchange of apologies as Missys fathers alcohol and drug addiction takes a toll on their lives.

As Missys mother decides to make a fresh start for her family, they must leave their old apartment, school, and friends behind. Missy becomes a latchkey kid, navigating the challenges of independence while her mother embarks on a job search. Despite the hardships, Missy remains determined to save her family.

This journey from innocence to action and finally acceptance is a testament to Missys unwavering optimism and resilience. The novel, inspired by the events and people of Amanda Lewiss own childhood, is driven by Missys irresistible and poetic voice, buoyed by the undercurrents of poetry and music.

Through her experiences, Missy learns the importance of empathy, forgiveness, and the power of love. She discovers that even in the face of adversity, there is always hope for a brighter future. The novel serves as a reminder that even in the darkest times, there is beauty to be found and that courage can lead us to overcome any obstacle.

In conclusion, "The New York City in the 1960s" is a poignant and gritty story that explores the complexities of family relationships and the resilience of the human spirit. Through Missys journey, we are reminded of the importance of seeing our parents as flawed human beings and finding the courage to make a fresh start. The novel's poetic voice and rich literary references make it a captivating and unforgettable read.

Weight: 320g
Dimension: 137 x 197 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781773067926