Book Review: Faith – A Compelling Story about a Fierce, Plus-Sized Teen Superheroine
There’s something inherently captivating about the concept of a plus-sized superhero who not only has the power to fly but also deals with the relatable trials of high school. Julie Murphy, renowned for her #1 New York Times bestselling novel Dumplin’, brings us Faith: A Compelling Story about a Fierce, Plus-Sized Teen Superheroine’s Quest to Balance High School Drama with Fighting Crime. As someone who has always craved more diverse representation in superhero narratives, I couldn’t resist diving into Faith’s world—and what a delightful journey it was!
At the heart of this book is Faith Herbert, a character that feels refreshingly real. As a senior juggling her feelings for her maybe-crush Johnny, her bond with Grandma Lou, and her love for volunteering, Faith seems to embody the essence of the everyday teen. But as her small town is rocked by mysterious disappearances tied to a designer drug infiltrating the high school, her newfound ability to fly transforms her life into something much more profound. The heartfelt exploration of friendship, love, and self-identity intertwined with thrilling mystery made Faith impossible to put down.
Murphy’s writing style is warm and engaging, effortlessly whisking readers through scenes of light-hearted teenage banter and moments of palpable tension. The pacing flows seamlessly, balancing the lighter elements of Faith’s day-to-day life with the heavier themes surrounding crime and personal discovery. As one reviewer noted, “Faith is a very passionate fangirl just looking for her place in the world,” and I couldn’t agree more. The moments where she grapples with her powers and responsibilities—often in a humorous and self-deprecating way—felt deeply relatable.
One aspect that stood out to me was the presence of pop culture throughout the book, especially Faith’s obsession with the teen drama The Grove. This not only adds a layer of authenticity but also allows readers to connect on a personal level, reflecting our own fandoms. I enjoyed how Murphy blends fiction and reality, inviting readers to engage with the protagonist’s enthusiasm for a fictional world as a coping mechanism against her own challenges.
While I savored many moments in the story, some readers mentioned feeling confused about certain elements. I could sense that the narrative sometimes rushed through intricate backstories or character dynamics, especially with Faith’s friends, Matt and Ches. I wished for a little more depth there to fully grasp their roles in Faith’s life. Nevertheless, the strong character development and vibrant emotional journeys more than compensated for these minor gaps.
In conclusion, Faith presents a unique blend of superhero action, high school drama, and self-discovery, making it an ideal read for young adults and anyone who appreciates the beauty of diverse characters thriving in their unique stories. This book is perfect for fans of Murphy’s previous works, as well as readers seeking representation in their superhero narratives—a fine tribute to body positivity and courage in the face of personal and societal challenges. If you’re looking for a book that is both entertaining and reflective on what it means to embrace your identity, I highly recommend picking up Faith. It left me feeling empowered, and I can’t wait to see where her journey takes her next in the follow-up, Faith: Greater Heights!