Sweep by Jonathan Auxier.
“We are saved by saving other” – Sweep by Jonathan Auxier.
I read this book for #middlegrademarch and I have neglected to write a review for it. I’ve been putting it off because I still don’t know exactly how I feel about it! I found the story interesting, the characters well developed and the writing beautiful. However, I struggled with the age appropriateness of some of the content or maybe I should say that it just surprised me.
Sweep covers some tough topics and has some strong language (not swearing, but a bit violent). I read some very heavy books as a child (Anne Frank, The Hiding Place, etc), but those are purely historical. The author’s note at the end explained that Sweep is also based on historical events, however I didn’t go into it framing it in my mind as such. I do think this would have been a bit jarring for me in elementary school to read since I wouldn’t have gone in prepared for it to be so heavy. There is a good chance I’m not giving my 8 year old self enough credit, so take what I say with a grain of salt, but these are my thoughts now.
Not having children, it’s hard for me to know what’s appropriate for different ages (and of course every child is different). Also, there are so many books I love that I’m always surprised to remember we’re originally geared towards children. I mean the Harry Potter series are some of my very favorites and they cover some super heavy topics! Anyways, this is a bit of a ramble, but I have rambling thoughts on it clearly. I’d love if you shared yours!
This book has a very solid 5 star rating on Amazon and 4.5 on Goodreads, so I think my 3.5 “I liked it” rating on this is a bit of an anomaly. Although I am unlikely to read this book again it is one I am glad to have sitting on my shelf. This book is absolutely beautiful and so nicely detailed!
Synopsis from Publisher:
It’s been five years since the Sweep disappeared. Orphaned and alone, Nan Sparrow had no other choice but to work for a ruthless chimney sweep named Wilkie Crudd. She spends her days sweeping out chimneys. The job is dangerous and thankless, but with her wits and will, Nan has managed to beat the deadly odds time and time again.
When Nan gets stuck in a chimney fire, she fears the end has come. Instead, she wakes to find herself unharmed in an abandoned attic. And she is not alone. Huddled in the corner is a mysterious creature—a golem—made from soot and ash.
Sweep is the story of a girl and her monster. Together, these two outcasts carve out a new life—saving each other in the process. Lyrically told by one of today’s most powerful storytellers, Sweep is a heartrending adventure about the everlasting gifts of friendship and wonder.
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Publisher: Abrams Books
Find it at: Amazon or Book Depository
ISBN: 9781419731402
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Sweep by Jonathan Auxier.
