Author Amber McBride's Journey to the National Book Award: A Story of Love, Loss, and Taboos
Death is a subject that haunts us all, yet we often shy away from discussing it. But author and poet Amber McBride has bravely confronted this taboo, channeling her personal experiences with mortality into a powerful narrative. Her novel, "The Leaving Room," is a testament to the transformative power of storytelling, as it grapples with themes of death, love, and queer representation.
The inspiration for McBride's novel emerged from her own encounters with death. In 2008, her father's near-death experience left an indelible mark, as he recounted floating above his body and being called back to life by his grandmother. This event, coupled with the tragic mass shooting at the University of Virginia in 2022, where three young football players lost their lives, prompted McBride to explore the profound impact of death on the living.
But here's where McBride's work takes a unique turn: "The Leaving Room" is a fantasy novel that imagines a liminal space between life and death, where young souls go after they pass away. The story centers around Gospel, the Keeper of The Leaving Room, and his romantic entanglement with another Keeper, Melodee. As they navigate their love story, the novel delves into the complexities of grief, the beauty of remembrance, and the importance of embracing life's joys.
McBride's novel challenges the protective veil parents often cast over their children regarding death. She argues that open conversations about mortality are essential, especially for young people who may have experienced loss. "Children do pass," she says, emphasizing the need to bring this topic to the forefront and make it less taboo. By doing so, we can create a safe space for children to process their emotions and share their experiences.
And this is where the controversy arises: McBride's novel, with its queer characters and frank exploration of death, might be at risk of being banned in schools. The author acknowledges this possibility, but she remains steadfast in her belief that authentic storytelling is crucial, even if it means facing censorship. She encourages writers to respect young readers' capacity for understanding complex themes and to challenge societal norms.
As "The Leaving Room" makes its way into bookstores, McBride hopes it will provide solace and insight to those who have experienced grief. She encourages readers to embrace the joy that comes with remembering loved ones, even in the midst of sorrow. This novel is not just a fantasy; it's a powerful tool for learning about life's most profound mysteries.
What do you think? Should books like "The Leaving Room" be embraced in schools as a way to foster open discussions about death and other sensitive topics? Or is there a risk of exposing young minds to ideas they might not be ready for? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let's continue the conversation.
