Melissa ~ Bantering Books's Reviews > We Begin at the End

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A month has passed since I turned the final page of Chris Whitaker’s glorious novel, We Begin at the End, and I can’t shake the memory of it. It’s a monkey on my back, ever present in my mind, refusing to leave me be.

And I don’t want it to leave me be.

Because the novel changed me. It reshaped me. Whitaker’s tragic story of thirteen-year-old Duchess and her five-year-old brother, Robin, caused me to reshuffle my priorities and be more present in my own life. And for this, I will be forever grateful.

I know the novel is not flawless. It certainly has its critics. Duchess is a bit overwritten, and the depiction of both children is not always age appropriate. The supporting characterization feels a bit flat. I also found it difficult to immerse myself in the California setting, and I would lose my sense of place when the story shifted back to the West Coast from Montana.

But my quibbles are insignificant in comparison to the novel’s beauty. We Begin at the End is masterfully written with stunning, literary prose. The mystery at its core is complex and surprising, and the story, while emotionally devastating, has moments of warm humor and hope.

I sobbed. I laughed. I sobbed some more.

And then I hugged my two boys. Tightly. (To their grumbling dismay.)

Because Duchess and Robin – these two kids broke my heart. Even now, my eyes burn for them as I write this.

For the unfairness of their lives. For their pain. For their resilience and strength of spirit.

For Robin’s undying optimism and willingness to try, try again. For Duchess’s selfless, protective love for her brother.

Mr. Whitaker, thank you. I have been touched, profoundly, by your words and your story.


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