Book Review: I Am Made of Death by Kelly
As a lifelong fan of beautifully crafted narratives that explore the depths of human experience, I was drawn to I Am Made of Death by Kelly. The title itself is intriguing, hinting at a complex journey through pain, growth, and perhaps a touch of darkness. After finishing the book, I felt an overwhelming urge to connect with others who have ventured into this world; it simply left an imprint on my heart.
A Journey Through Horror and Humor
Kelly weaves a captivating tale that is both haunting and humorous, tackling themes of trauma, identity, and the complexities of adolescence. The protagonist, Vivienne, embodies a turbulent blend of strength and vulnerability, resonating deeply with anyone grappling with their own inner monsters. One moment, she’s navigating the raw emotions of teenage life; the next, she’s facing something far more terrifying. “Seeing her at her ugliest, her meanest, her most utterly depraved—was undignified beyond imagination.” This duality captures the essence of growing up and the chaos that often comes with it.
I was particularly fascinated by Kelly’s striking use of bones as a recurring motif throughout the narrative. “The thing inside her is curled up behind her ribs,” speaks volumes about how we can feel trapped within ourselves. It beautifully contrasts traditional themes of blood in fantasy—here, bones bring a visceral, haunting quality that is distinctive and thought-provoking.
Character Connections and Authenticity
Characters like Thomas stood out for their depth and relatability. I found myself rooting for him, captivated by his gentle strength as he navigates his feelings for Vivienne. The emotional intelligence he displays felt refreshing: “You can’t expect me to do nothing,” he asserts, a line that resonated as a call for action and vulnerability. These relationships are drawn with such care, reminding us of the intricacies in our own connections.
The romance blossoming between Thomas and Vivienne is a poignant mix of longing and sweetness. Their back-and-forth banter left me giggling, while their moments of raw vulnerability had me tearing up. The line, “I’ll wear yours,” regarding their shared trinkets, is an embodiment of their connection—symbols of love forged through chaos and trauma.
Moments that Stay with Me
Kelly’s writing shines in her atmospheric descriptions and the way she seamlessly blends horror with humor. Lines like, “A sunken horror wrapped in shipwreck silence,” stuck with me, forming vivid images that linger even now. Every eerie encounter felt like a punch to the gut—delightfully terrifying and beautifully descriptive.
As I flipped those final pages, I felt a bittersweet ache. It’s a story I know I’ll carry with me, offering insights into both the monstrous and the mundane struggles of being a teenager today.
Final Thoughts
If you enjoy tales that intertwine horror with deep, emotional reflections on identity and connection, I wholeheartedly recommend I Am Made of Death. It’s a beautifully crafted, engaging read that speaks to anyone who has ever struggled with their own darkness or felt the weight of their bones. Kelly has captured the essence of youth—a mix of chaos, humor, and undeniable strength.
As for me? I’m already planning a reread of Kelly’s previous work, as I can’t resist diving back into her enchanting yet haunting worlds. Here’s to all of you who dare to explore these depths alongside me—let’s carry these stories in our bones together.