Review: The Academy: A Novel by Elin Hilderbrand and Shelby Cunningham
From the moment I first heard about The Academy, I felt an undeniable pull. The combination of Elin Hilderbrand’s evocative storytelling and the fresh perspective of her daughter, Shelby Cunningham, promised a unique take on the often-mythologized world of boarding schools. As someone who remembers the thrilling dramas of adolescence, the chance to dive into the scandalous lives at Tiffin Academy felt irresistibly compelling.
Tiffin Academy bursts onto the scene as a landscape of privilege and chaos, where the news of its unexpected ranking catapults the students and staff into a whirlwind of ambition and hilarity. Amidst the glimmering facade of elite education are vibrant characters—Davi, the social media queen; Simone, the unexpectedly young history teacher; and Charley, the rebellious transfer student—all peppered with relatable flaws and intrigue. Their tangled lives serve as a window into the complexities of youth, identity, and the often absurd reality of social hierarchies.
One of the core themes that struck a chord with me was the exploration of secrecy and the duality of teenage life. The introduction of ZipZap, a social media app that proliferates scandalous gossip across the campus, heightened this theme brilliantly. As the characters’ personal struggles and errors are revealed, it mirrors our own anxieties about self-presentation and acceptance. Relationships shift, secrets unravel, and the pursuit of belonging becomes both a universal truth and a cruel lens for scrutiny.
The narrative style is distinctly Hilderbrand—richly detailed yet conversational, inviting readers into each character’s inner world while maintaining a brisk pace that propelled me quickly through the book. The dialogue feels authentic, especially infused with the contemporary rhythms of teenage slang, thanks to Cunningham’s input. I found myself laughing, cringing, and nodding in recognition as I turned the pages.
Notable moments linger long after reading. Charley’s determination not to fit in resonated with my own youth, a cathartic reminder of what it feels like to forge one’s path against the current. One standout quote was when a character mused, “We are all just looking for a home in each other.” It encapsulates the fear and yearning that drives these young adults, a sentiment that many of us can relate to, regardless of age.
However, this isn’t a book without its critiques. Some readers and reviewers mentioned that the character ensemble could be overwhelming and that the pacing sometimes faltered. Yet, for me, the sheer vibrancy of Tiffin Academy and its inhabitants made those moments worthwhile. I enjoyed witnessing the highs and lows of these flawed characters; after all, isn’t that what youth is all about?
In conclusion, The Academy is a wonderfully engaging exploration of adolescence that perfectly captures the tumult and thrill of the boarding school experience. I believe this book will resonate with anyone who enjoys coming-of-age tales peppered with drama and humor. Whether you’re revisiting those pivotal teenage moments or simply seeking an escape into a world of privilege and intrigue, The Academy is worth adding to your reading list. This delightful collaboration has left me curious for more, and I can’t help but hope for a sequel to dive back into Tiffin’s tangled web of secrets and revelations.
You can find The Academy: A Novel (The Academy Series Book 1) here >>