Echo by Pam Munoz Ryan

Echo isn’t just one story, but many, all interwoven throughout a novel that seemed to go by in a flash. The setting differs from story to story, however from pre-holocaust Germany to post-pear harbor California, the locations mirror the loss and suffering attributed to the historical period. Viewing these characters hardships and their determination to see the light in things made me feel grateful for all I have. 

Echo beautifully twists a historical setting with fantasy elements of magical realism in the shape of a harmonica that ties the three young people together. As heart wrenching as the subject matter can get, the characters are lovable and memorable, just like the narrative. 

I just couldn’t put the book down, constantly wanting to know “what happens next” as I dived further into Muñoz’s rich, emotional writing. The best part of Echo is how blatantly raw and real it is, and though the situation is far from relatable, it is immersive, informative, and nearly stole my breath away. 

 Review Written by Emily, 11th Grade