absolute work of art. do yourself a favor, and read this as soon as humanly possible
With equal parts teenage awkwardness, classic high school drama, and queer romance so sweet it makes your teeth ache - plus, the occasional superpower - Lauren Shippen's The Infinite Noise is everything you could ask for in a YA novel (and more). This delightful book is the best kind of origin story; not only does it mark the beginning of Caleb's story as he comes to terms with his growing powers of empathy, but it also serves as the start to the complex relationship between him and his classmate Adam - although for a while, neither of the boys are sure of what their relationship may be.
The Infinite Noise switches P.O.V. from chapter to chapter, and Shippen impressively manages to form distinct voices for both Caleb and Adam's narrations, while staying true to her consistent and wonderful style of writing throughout. Her characters are so well-written that they're immediately easy to relate to, and even easier to love. The plot of the book itself kept me interested until the very end, and the pacing is perfect for the compelling story being told. Even though at times I wished the novel moved faster so I could instantly see what happened next, as soon as I finished it, I wished I could go back and linger within the pages for even a little while longer.
For those like myself who are familiar with Shippen's prior work on "The Bright Sessions" podcast, The Infinite Noise is a beautiful elaboration on a story you're already familiar with. For those who haven't even heard of "The Bright Sessions" before, this story will still connect with you in a way that makes it feel like you've known it your whole life. My favorite thing about this book - although it is undeniably hard to choose just one - is that it forces you to feel every feeling possible, and feel them to the fullest (in true empath fashion). In the words of a certain protagonist I know, The Infinite Noise (and the emotions its unforgettable story evokes) has "found a home in my chest", and I don't see it leaving any time soon.
The Infinite Noise switches P.O.V. from chapter to chapter, and Shippen impressively manages to form distinct voices for both Caleb and Adam's narrations, while staying true to her consistent and wonderful style of writing throughout. Her characters are so well-written that they're immediately easy to relate to, and even easier to love. The plot of the book itself kept me interested until the very end, and the pacing is perfect for the compelling story being told. Even though at times I wished the novel moved faster so I could instantly see what happened next, as soon as I finished it, I wished I could go back and linger within the pages for even a little while longer.
For those like myself who are familiar with Shippen's prior work on "The Bright Sessions" podcast, The Infinite Noise is a beautiful elaboration on a story you're already familiar with. For those who haven't even heard of "The Bright Sessions" before, this story will still connect with you in a way that makes it feel like you've known it your whole life. My favorite thing about this book - although it is undeniably hard to choose just one - is that it forces you to feel every feeling possible, and feel them to the fullest (in true empath fashion). In the words of a certain protagonist I know, The Infinite Noise (and the emotions its unforgettable story evokes) has "found a home in my chest", and I don't see it leaving any time soon.