The World Within: A Novel of Emily Brontë

Gr 6–9—Eagland uses a line from an Emily Brontë poem as inspiration for the title of this novel to capture Emily's introverted nature and to reference the fantastical worlds that she and her siblings created. Emily's close-knit family—her father; siblings Branwell, Charlotte, and Anne; an aunt; and their housemaid—become real to readers. A scene where Emily's pious aunt dips into her snuff jar while Charlotte's friend is visiting is one example of Eagland's skill in adding depth to the characters. The protagonist's interactions with elders, siblings and their friends, and classmates at Roe Head reflect Emily's complexity, and the emotions she experiences as she navigates these relationships are genuine. Emily and Anne struggle with their personal faith in God, and the author conveys this timeless issue with acuity. The themes of family, being true to oneself, rural vs. urban living, and coming of age are interwoven throughout without weighing down the story. However, stilted transitions between certain scenes may be jarring for some readers. For those who want a more action-filled story about the Brontës, recommend Michaela MacColl's Always Emily (Chronicle, 2014).—Hilary Writt, Sullivan University, Lexington, KY