"Sam" by Allegra Goodman

Allegra Goodman’s novel Sam is a powerful and poignant coming-of-age story that offers a profound reflection on themes such as addiction, parenthood, class, ambition, and longing. The story follows the journey of Sam, a young girl who struggles to find her place in the world and to come to terms with the challenges and expectations that come with growing up.

Sam is a character who immediately captures the reader's attention. She is a young girl who loves to climb and finds solace and purpose in the act of overcoming challenges. Her passion for climbing becomes a symbol of her resilience and determination, as well as her yearning for something more than the life she has been given. Sam’s complex relationship with her father and her mother, both of whom struggle with addiction and other issues, adds depth and nuance to the story, highlighting the impact of family dynamics on a child’s sense of self and belonging.

As Sam grows up and faces the challenges of adolescence, she is forced to confront her own doubts and insecurities. Her desire for validation and recognition from her climbing coach, who pushes the boundaries of their relationship, and her struggles with her mother's constant pressure to plan for a more secure future, lead her to question who she wants to be and what she wants from life. Through her journey of self-discovery, Sam learns to find her own voice and to trust her instincts, realizing that she alone has the power to make her dreams come true.

One of the most impressive aspects of Goodman's writing is the way she creates a vivid and immersive world that feels both real and magical. The descriptions of Sam’s climbs are breathtaking, and the way in which they are woven into the narrative adds to the overall sense of wonder and awe. Goodman also captures the complex emotions and conflicts that arise from Sam’s relationships with her family and her coach with nuance and sensitivity, creating a rich and multifaceted portrayal of the challenges and joys of growing up.

The novel is also a powerful reflection on the impact of social class and privilege on a child’s sense of self and belonging. Sam's mother, Courtney, is a single mother who struggles to make ends meet and who constantly reminds her daughter of the limitations of their circumstances. Sam's father, on the other hand, is a wealthy businessman who can come and go as he pleases, leaving behind a trail of broken promises and unfulfilled expectations. Through Sam's eyes, the reader is able to see the stark contrast between these two worlds and the impact they have on her sense of identity and belonging.

Overall, Sam is a beautifully written and deeply moving novel that offers a powerful reflection on the challenges and joys of coming of age. Goodman’s writing is spare and elegant, yet full of depth and nuance, creating a story that is both captivating and thought-provoking. The novel will appeal to readers of all ages who are interested in exploring the complexities of adolescence, the impact of family dynamics, and the importance of finding one's own voice and sense of purpose in the world. Highly recommended.

Buy Now: "Sam" by Allegra Goodman at Amazon