What A Trip: A Novel

Fiona is an art student at a New Jersey college who is struggling to find herself in a fast-paced coming-of-age novel. She is introduced to tarot cards and the anti-war movement and struggles to define herself, her artistic career, and her future.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 424 pages
Publication date: 15 November 2022
Publisher: She Writes Press

In this captivating coming-of-age novel, we delve into the life of Fiona, an art student attending a college in New Jersey. With her remarkable intelligence, breathtaking beauty, and ongoing quest for self-discovery, Fiona's journey is a captivating exploration of the tumultuous era of the late 1960s and early 1970s. Through her eyes, we relive a kaleidoscope of cultural phenomena, including the sexual revolution, the prevalence of drugs and rock n roll, the first draft lottery since World War II, the Moratorium to End the War in Vietnam, the Kent State University shootings, and the harsh realities of war for young Americans.

Fiona's best friend, Melissa, finds herself trapped in a stagnant and unfulfilling relationship, burdened by the responsibility of pregnancy and facing an uncertain future. After experiencing an abortion, Fiona and Melissa embark on a week-long journey to Florida, where they are introduced to the enigmatic world of tarot cards and the anti-war movement. This transformative experience ignites a newfound obsession in Melissa for the occult, while Fiona, though intrigued, approaches the tarot with a cautious mindset, haunted by the voice of her conservative Christian mother.

Upon Fiona's return from Florida, she enters into a relationship with Reuben, a journalism major and political activist. Reuben's decision to relocate to Canada to evade the draft sparks a dilemma for Fiona, as she grapples with her own desires and aspirations. Caught between her affection for Reuben and her own dreams, Fiona embarks on a personal journey of self-discovery, striving to define her artistic career, her future, and her true identity.

Through its vivid portrayal of a young woman's journey of self-discovery, this novel offers a poignant reflection on the complexities of love, friendship, and personal growth in a rapidly changing world. It serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of personal choice in navigating the challenges of adulthood.

Weight: 572g
Dimension: 140 x 216 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781647422851