This coming of age story follows a young boy named Theo from Ney York who’s mother was tragically killed in a devastating explosion. What follows is a detailed account of Theo’s relationship with his mother through a painting that he stole from the exhibition space where the event took place. Echoing gothic fiction such as The Picture of Dorian Gray, the novel discusses complex themes such as love, loss and trials and tribulations of growing up in the modern-day.

This story was something that I could escape into when I was struggling with my mental health as the language and imagery is so detailed it really makes it seem as though you are a part of Theo’s life. If you want to laugh, cry, and get lost in a narrative that offers a modern take on a typically historic genre this book is for you!