Exploring Grief and Healing in Lisa Schroeder's Chasing Brooklyn
- Mikayla Young
- Oct 27
- 8 min read
In the world of young adult literature, few authors paint the intricacies of grief and healing as vividly as Lisa Schroeder. Her novel, Chasing Brooklyn, offers a heartfelt exploration of love, loss, and the challenging journey toward acceptance. Written in captivating verse, this book pulls readers into the emotional depths of its characters, making it a poignant read for anyone who has felt the sting of losing a loved one.
This blog post will examine key elements of Chasing Brooklyn, including a synopsis, a review, discussion questions, activities, and insights about the author. Whether you are a long-time fan of Lisa Schroeder or diving into her work for the first time, this post aims to provide a thorough overview of this beautifully haunting story.
Book Information
Title: Chasing Brooklyn
Author: Lisa Schroeder
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Paranormal, Contemporary Fiction, Poetry
Age Category: Young Adult, 16+
Publication Date: December 31, 2009
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Format: Novel
Format Read in: Kindle E-book
Reading Challenges: Kindle TBR, Re-read
Book Synopsis
In a world overshadowed by grief and loss, three souls are bound by tragedy and the haunting echoes of their pasts. When Lucca unexpectedly dies, his best friend Gabe is left to grapple with the heartache, ultimately succumbing to his own demons just a year later. Their deaths leave a profound void, particularly for Brooklyn, Lucca's girlfriend, who has been masking her pain with a façade of strength and indifference.
As Brooklyn navigates her sorrow, her nights are plagued by nightmares featuring a ghostly figure—gray and sinister—who she recognizes as Gabe. Desperate for relief from the torment, she struggles to understand the significance of his haunting presence, feeling increasingly isolated in her turmoil.
Meanwhile, Nico, Lucca's brother, has built emotional walls to cope with his loss. Gabe's death barely fazes him, but soon he finds himself tormented by mysterious voices in his dreams and cryptic messages appearing on his window. Convinced that Lucca is urging him to act, Nico reluctantly reaches out to Brooklyn, seeking to save her from her own despair.
As they confront the shadows of their past, Brooklyn and Nico embark on a journey of healing and rediscovery. Together, they unearth a shared yearning for life and, unexpectedly, a deepening connection that challenges their grief. Will they find the strength to embrace their feelings and forge a new path, or will the weight of their losses keep them trapped in the darkness? In this poignant tale of love, loss, and redemption, the bonds of friendship are tested, and the power of hope shines brightest in the depths of despair.
Book Rating + Review
My Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5 out of 5 stars)
The characters within this narrative are exceptionally well-developed, each presenting a rich tapestry of unique perspectives and experiences that delve deeply into the themes of grief, loss, and the challenging journey of life that follows such profound events. At the forefront of this exploration is Brooklyn, the primary female protagonist, who is a wonderfully crafted character embodying the complexities of navigating life in the wake of the death of a loved one. Her journey is not merely a linear path of mourning; rather, it highlights the intricate struggle to embrace fleeting moments of joy and to live fully amidst the absence of someone who once held immense significance in her life.
Brooklyn's character arc is profound and multifaceted, showcasing significant growth as she learns to navigate her emotions. She exhibits a blend of humor, intelligence, and compassion that resonates deeply with those around her, illustrating how one can find light in the darkest of times. Her interactions with others reveal her desire to connect, even when weighed down by her grief, and she often grapples with the question of whether it is possible to honor the memory of her lost loved one while also allowing herself to experience happiness. This internal conflict makes her relatable to anyone who has faced similar challenges, making her journey a poignant reflection on the human experience. As she poignantly questions, “Will the darkness ever fade? Will I ever see light again?” her struggle embodies the universal search for hope amidst despair.
In contrast, Nico, the main male character, provides an alternative perspective on grief—one that is characterized by a complex mix of anger, wonder, and curiosity. His journey is marked by a path of self-discovery that unfolds in the absence of his brother. Throughout the narrative, Nico evolves significantly as he grapples with the reality of his loss. He comes to accept that he is distinct from his brother, which leads him to confront his own identity in a world that feels altered and uncertain. Nico illustrates how grief can evoke a multitude of emotions, including anger and uncertainty, often leaving behind a trail of questions rather than clear answers. His character serves as a reminder that the journey through grief is not uniform; it is filled with twists and turns that can lead to profound personal revelations. Reflecting on his experience, he might echo the sentiment, “Don’t go there. Don’t feel so bad, you go there and don’t know how to get back,” highlighting the disorienting nature of grief.
The narrative ultimately emphasizes a crucial choice that individuals face in the wake of loss: the decision to allow grief to consume them or to take gradual, conscious steps toward healing. This theme resonates throughout the book, offering readers a lens through which to understand their own experiences with grief and the potential for recovery. The characters’ journeys poignantly illustrate that the scariest things in life are often those we cannot see, as encapsulated in Nico’s reflection, “After all, aren’t the scariest things in life those things you can’t see?”
Moreover, the side characters are also well-developed, each presenting their own unique perspectives and journeys through grief and life beyond loss. The author skillfully integrates these characters into the narrative, enriching the story with depth and diverse viewpoints while maintaining a strong focus on the central plotline involving Brooklyn and Nico. Each side character adds layers to the narrative, illustrating that grief is a universal experience that touches everyone differently, and their stories intertwine beautifully with the main narrative, providing a broader context for the exploration of loss.
The atmosphere and settings within the book are meticulously crafted to immerse readers in the story, enhancing the overall tone and mood without overshadowing the main narrative. The writing style is realistic, immersive, and emotionally resonant, effectively bringing the characters and their emotions to life. The book’s verse format renders it concise yet impactful, perfectly suited to the story's emotional weight. Each line and verse carries significance, allowing readers to experience the characters' journeys in a deeply personal way.
The plot is emotionally charged, well-developed, and filled with realistic and relatable twists that engage readers as they journey alongside the characters. Despite the book's brevity, it imparts valuable lessons on communication, grief, loss, life, love, friendship, self-expression, family, and the complex journey to rediscover happiness after experiencing loss. This was my fifth re-read; I first encountered this book during my high school years, and each time I revisit it, I discover new connections through the characters, their journeys, the lessons they learn, and the poignant verses that resonate with my own experiences.
"Chasing Brooklyn" by Lisa Schroeder is a beautifully crafted story in verse that not only enables readers to connect and relate but also allows them to see themselves reflected in the characters' struggles and triumphs. It offers opportunities for reflection and discovery, revealing something new with every line, verse, and reading. Each encounter with the text deepens my understanding and appreciation for the nuanced portrayal of grief and the resilience of the human spirit, making it a timeless piece that continues to resonate long after the final page is turned.
Discussion Questions and Activities
Before Reading
What do you think are some common ways people cope with grief? Share personal experiences or observations.
Discuss the significance of the title Chasing Brooklyn. What do you think it might represent in relation to the themes of the book?
Explore the concept of loss in literature. What are some other books or stories that address similar themes? How do you think they compare?
Consider the format of the book being written in verse. How do you think this style might influence your reading experience?
During Reading
As you read, keep a journal of your thoughts and feelings about Brooklyn and Nico's experiences. How do their reactions to grief differ?
Highlight or note any passages that resonate with you emotionally. What about these passages stood out?
Discuss the character development of Brooklyn and Nico as you read. How do their perspectives on grief evolve throughout the story?
Pay attention to the use of imagery and language in the verse. How does it enhance the emotional impact of the story?
After Reading
Reflect on the ending of the book. Do you think Brooklyn and Nico found a way to heal? Why or why not?
Discuss how the author portrays the theme of hope in the face of loss. What messages do you take away regarding healing?
Create a character map for Brooklyn and Nico, outlining their relationships and how they change throughout the story.
Engage in a creative activity by writing a poem or a short piece inspired by the themes of the book. Focus on your interpretation of grief and healing.
Host a group discussion or book club meeting to share insights and personal reflections on the book. What lessons did you learn about grief and connection?
About the Author
Lisa Schroeder is a prolific author of engaging stories for children and teens, with a writing passion that began in her childhood. She has published over twenty books, including acclaimed young adult verse novels like I HEART YOU, YOU HAUNT ME and CHASING BROOKLYN, along with recent works such as THE BRIDGE FROM ME TO YOU and ALL WE HAVE IS NOW. Her middle-grade books include titles like IT'S RAINING CUPCAKES and MY SECRET GUIDE TO PARIS, and her works have been translated into multiple languages and featured on various state reading lists. Residing in a suburb outside Portland, Oregon, with her family, Lisa is married and has two sons. She has been writing since childhood and focused on children's literature since 2003, inspired by her love for books and the desire to connect with young readers. Her diverse collection includes titles for ages 13 and up, such as FAR FROM YOU and FALLING FOR YOU, and for ages 8-12, including THE GIRL IN THE TOWER and WISH ON ALL THE STARS. Her books have received recognition on state reading lists and by organizations like the American Library Association. Lisa enjoys walking, baking, reading, and traveling, with fond memories of the Salem Public Library and a degree in Business Administration from Oregon State University. She has a black cat named Luna and a black and white dog named Alfie, and she encourages young writers to read widely, write consistently, and invest in their craft.
Where to Buy the Book
Chasing Brooklyn can be purchased in multiple formats, including e-book, paperback, hardcover, and mass market paperback, from a range of retailers, making it easily accessible for readers.
Local Bookstores and libraries: Always consider supporting your independent bookstores and local libraries for a more personal shopping and reading experience!
Conclusion
Chasing Brooklyn by Lisa Schroeder stands as a powerful testament to the complexities of grief and the resilience of the human spirit. Through the intertwining journeys of Brooklyn and Nico, readers are invited to explore the depths of loss while also discovering the potential for healing and connection. Schroeder's masterful use of verse not only enhances the emotional weight of the narrative but also allows for a profound engagement with the characters' experiences.
This novel serves as a reminder that while grief can be an isolating experience, it can also lead to unexpected bonds and moments of joy. As readers reflect on their own encounters with loss, Chasing Brooklyn encourages them to embrace their emotions and seek solace in the shared human experience. Whether you are revisiting this story or discovering it for the first time, it promises to leave a lasting impact, urging you to find light even in the darkest of times.
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