Yesterday's Shadow

LoveReading Says

A reflective novel that shows the impact of an unexpected perspective on a sixteen year old Nick. ‘Yesterday’s Shadow’ introduces us to Nick at a very turbulent time in his life. One winter night at the dawn of the millennium, sixteen year old Nick reluctantly saves a homeless man named Peter.

When their paths cross again Peter introduces Nick to his faith, offering a life raft of certainty in Nick’s otherwise quite liminal life. As the year continues Nick struggles to navigate relationships with his parents and his peers, facing the stress of a forever changed home life, new romantic feelings and relationships and the stress of school and exams.

This is the author’s third published novel although we learn in the prologue that it was the second one he wrote, however I haven’t read any previous books by this author. The writing style flowed well, Nick’s past tense tone allowing us to follow the plot and be immersed in the storyline while also offering an opportunity for Nick to reflect.

There is a sense of nostalgia in the writing but it’s not all rose coloured glasses, Nick shares moments of regret and turmoil while also reflecting a naivety or ignorance of youth as he recounts his story. Raising many questions about society, from how we handle bullies to the importance we place on material possessions, ‘Yesterday’s Shadow’ explores how the past shapes us, and the lessons that we can take from everything and everyone around us.

Charlotte Walker, A LoveReading Ambassador

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