The Art of Escaping by Erin Callahan | Rating: ★★★☆☆
 
As a note, an e-galley of this novel was sent to me via NetGalley by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not effect my opinions in any way.

The Art of Escaping was a very promising release from the start. While I can't say that I loved every little thing about the novel itself, and it had some moments that rubbed me the wrong way, it was still quite enjoyable and I appreciate it for what it accomplishes. Plus, the underlying message behind it--about high school life, escaping the ordinary life we all have to eventually face--is something anyone can relate to.

Something that is essential to YA is that the characters be obtainable and Callahan crafts a set of characters that is easy to connect with at any age. Even if you don't relate to their reasoning, you can certainly relate to their desires to escape and not face certain things just yet. I was the same way as a teenage and find myself even now in my 20s looking for ways to just... avoid. The Art of Escaping is universal in many ways.

I found myself enjoying the characters more than the plot itself but, I think, this may be because I felt a little too disconnected with certain elements. It's hard to explain. But, Mattie, our main character, is someone I grew to really adore even if the story wasn't wholly for me. I found myself wondering if Mattie was my favourite character or Miyu. Will, too, is a great and emotionally complex character and rounds out the cast very well--I can't pinpoint my exact feelings towards him, but I liked the various traits of all three in particular.

The Art of Escaping is, ultimately, a coming of age story that captures the highs and lows of your teenage years wonderfully. Erin Callahan is a voice to look out for.