Backwaters

“I’m not a single story, but a mosaic of experiences, a tapestry of cultures and memories.” This quote perfectly summarises the novel, reflecting Laura, the protagonist’s journey to love and accept her identity. Throughout the story, we witness her struggles with her identity and understanding herself, shaped by the diverse cultures and experiences she encounters. Her journey is both moving and inspiring. Her story tells us that identity should not be defined by just one story but is enhanced by the diverse experiences and cultures woven into your life.

“Backwaters” follows the journey of Laura, a young woman struggling with her multicultural heritage and personal identity. As she deals with her family’s expectations and cultural influences that surround her, she works to bring these different parts of her life together. Through her experience, she moves from confusion and frustration, to understanding and accepting herself. Throughout the book, Laura learns to embrace the diverse cultures and memories that shape her.

From the very first page, I was drawn to the complexities of Laura's life. Sidnam’s powerful writing vividly captures the complex details of Laura’s personal and external experiences. Her life is a delicate balance of contrasting cultural influences, from her family’s desires and societal norms, which often clash with her individual goals and aspirations. Laura's internal struggles with her mixed heritage are passionately portrayed, expressing her efforts to bring together the different parts of her identity.

One of my favourite quotes in the book would have to be, “I guess I write a lot about identity, what it means to be a person. I feel like I don’t quite know myself, and I’m trying to work it out.” This quote is said near the start of the story, when Laura feels incomplete, struggling to understand who she really is among conflicting cultural experiences and varied personal experiences that seem to define her. This sense of uncertainty drives the story, as Laura embarks on a quest to piece together her identity and find a sense of belonging.

Sidnam’s writing style, combined with the story's pace, makes “Backwaters” an engaging read for a broad audience. The themes of family dynamics, cultural integration and personal growth, creates a story that resonates with a wide audience. While particularly suitable for teenagers who might be trying to understand themselves, the themes and storytelling will also intrigue adults, making it suitable for all ages. The characters, especially Laura, are depicted in a detailed and realistic way, making their struggles relatable to anyone who has faced similar conflicts.

I originally chose this book because I liked how the cover looked, with its striking imagery and design, which hint at the book’s themes. As I did some brief research into what the book was about, I realised it was a topic I’d be very interested in. It definitely didn’t disappoint.

Overall, I highly recommend “Backwaters,” it is a meaningful exploration of identity and self-acceptance, expertly portrayed through Emma Ling Sidnam’s evocative writing style. Laura’s journey, filled with cultural and personal conflicts, is both reflective and inspiring. The novel engages readers of all ages with its universal themes and the fascinating story of Laura’s quest for self-discovery. “Backwaters” is not just a story of finding identity, but a celebration of the diverse experiences that shape who we are, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the complexities of identity and belonging.

- Olivia is 15 and lives in Dunedin.