BOOK REVIEW: The Drowners by David A. Anderson

The Drowners

Author: David A. Anderson
Publication Date:  18 March 2025
Genre: Semi-Autobiographical YA/ Coming of Age Fiction

Book Description:
For Aaron, this world is an unfathomable puzzle. Haunted by disturbing dreams, he drifts through empty days, shielding himself behind sarcasm and cynical wit. After being expelled, he sees an opportunity to rewrite his future at a new school. Connecting over a shared love for De Niro films with Robbie, an aspiring actor of Jamaican descent, he unexpectedly finds his companion piece, one person who truly understands him. Together, they navigate the chaotic waters of adolescence, from dramatic first dates to sociopathic bullies, iconic concerts, and a dead body.

With adulthood fast approaching, the crushing weight of societal pressures and devastating revelations threaten to shatter their unique bond. Confronted by the ghosts of his past, Aaron must choose whether to blaze bright or fade away.

A funny and poignant meditation on the forces that shape us, The Drowners is an ode to that time when your tolerance for hypocrisy was zero and life’s possibilities seemed infinite.

Pre-Order Links:

Amazon US | UK

Connect with the Author:

Threads | Mastodon | X

SUMMARY

The Drowners by David A. Anderson is a poignant coming-of-age novel set in 1990s Dublin. The story revolves around Aaron Anderson, a 15-year-old struggling to find his place in the world. Haunted by disturbing dreams and feeling like an outsider, Aaron navigates adolescence with sarcasm and wit. After being expelled from school, he finds a new beginning and forms a deep bond with Robbie, an aspiring actor of Jamaican descent. Together, they face the challenges of first loves, societal pressures and personal revelations. As Aaron grapples with his identity and the expectations of those around him, he must confront his past and decide whether to embrace his true self or conform to societal norms.

MY THOUGHTS

This book is a powerful exploration of adolescence, identity, and the complexities of human relationships. The author's use of humour and poignant moments creates a narrative that feels both authentic and relatable, drawing readers into the world of 1990s Dublin. The setting provides a unique backdrop, capturing the era's optimism and cultural nuances, which adds depth to the story. One of the strengths of the book is its raw honesty; it doesn't shy away from difficult themes like drug use, identity crises, and the struggles of growing up. This unapologetic approach makes the narrative feel real and engaging, allowing readers to connect with the characters on a deeper level.

The exploration of mental health themes in The Drowners resonated with me, particularly in its portrayal of Aaron's inner turmoil and his struggles with identity and societal expectations. The narrative reminded me of My Mad Fat Diary, a British series known for its honest and relatable depiction of teenage life and mental health struggles. Both share a similar tone in addressing complex issues with humour and sensitivity, making them relatable and impactful. The music ensemble in the book, with its references to iconic artists like Bowie, adds another layer of depth, reflecting the characters' emotional journeys and the cultural context of the time.

In terms of its themes and tone, The Drowners also brings to mind The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky. Both stories explore the importance of finding one's place in the world through friendships and shared experiences. The film Submarine, directed by Richard Ayoade, is another point of comparison, as it too captures the awkwardness and humour of teenage life with a similar blend of wit and pathos. Even classic coming-of-age films like The Breakfast Club come to mind, as both The Drowners and The Breakfast Club highlight the importance of finding one's identity and forming meaningful connections with others amidst the challenges of adolescence.

However, at times, the dialogue felt slightly mature for the age of the protagonists, which occasionally required a reminder that these were teenagers. Despite this, the overall authenticity of the characters' experiences and emotions remained intact, making their journey relatable and impactful.

The character development is strong, particularly in the portrayal of Aaron's inner turmoil and his relationship with Robbie. Aaron's struggles with his identity, family expectations and personal relationships are deeply explored, making him a compelling and sympathetic protagonist. The dynamic between Aaron and Robbie is especially well-crafted, showcasing how their bond evolves from an awkward beginning to a comfortable and supportive friendship. The dialogue is smooth and authentic, contributing to the overall sense of realism in the story. The way the characters interact with each other feels natural, which is a testament to the author's skill in crafting believable relationships.

One minor issue is the lack of clear dialogue tags, which can sometimes make it difficult to discern who is speaking. However, this wasn't a big enough issue to cause a disruption in an otherwise smooth transition from one scene to the next. The narrative flows well, and the reader is able to follow the story without significant confusion.

Overall, The Drowners is a compelling read that offers a satisfying conclusion that aligns with its themes of embracing uncertainty and finding courage in the face of adversity. The book's ability to balance humour and sensitivity while tackling complex themes makes it a standout in its genre. I highly recommend it for its honest portrayal of adolescence and its exploration of identity, relationships, and personal growth. The author's willingness to confront difficult subjects head-on creates a narrative that is both impactful and memorable.

VERDICT

Rating: 4 Stars

Source: Author