Book Review: The One Memory of Flora Banks by Emily Barr

Released: 12th January 2017, Penguin

Flora is seventeen and longs to be like every other girl her age. However, Flora can’t remember anything past being ten for more than a few hours. She has anterograde amnesia ever since she was ten.

When she goes to a party, she ends up alone with her best friend’s boyfriend, Drake. They kiss and he leaves. When Flora wakes up, she remembers Drake, she remembers the kiss. Her first new memory for seven years.

She must be with Drake and so sets out to find him alone hoping that she will find him quickly and they can be together.

I found Flora to be such an interesting character. She had such an innocence about her that I felt the need to protect her, hoping that no one was going to take advantage. As far as all the other characters are concerned, I didn’t know who to trust much like Flora. She’s an inspirational character. Many could learn a lot from her.

As I read, I tried to put myself in her shoes – getting myself to a place and then waking up a while later having no idea how I got there. It was a terrifying thought and yet, she embraces the adventure. She forgets, starts again and keeps moving.

Flora’s story is intriguing. I got the feeling as I was reading that there were a few things Flora didn’t know. I never really stopped wanting to know what was going to happen and whilst I usually have an idea halfway through of how a book is going to develop, I had no clue as to what was going to happen by the end of this novel. It really did have me guessing. A lot.

I can’t say much more without giving away the end. What I will say is that this is probably one of the best books I have read in a while (and I’ve read some fabulous books.) Even now, I am still thinking about it.

This book appeals to both younger and older readers. I loved this book (even if it was slightly heart-breaking). It’s beautifully written and Flora is an adorable, strong lead character.

I really hope Emily Barr decides to revisit Flora at some point. I’d love to know what happens next.

by

Laura

I'm Laura. I started Novel Kicks back in 2009 as I wanted a place to discuss books and writing - two loves of my life. As someone who has anxiety, these two things give me, and I am sure countless others, a much needed escape.
There is a monthly book club, writing exercises, prompts, reviews, author interviews, competitions and guest posts. I cover many genres and I hope there is something for everyone.
I grew up by the sea in Dorset and currently live in Poole with my husband, Chris and three cats. I love writing and have a BA (Hons) in Creative Writing from Falmouth University. I am writing my first book. If only I could stop pressing delete. Chris has threatened to stop it from working. Haha.
I have always loved creative writing since I was in first school and would very much like to meet my teacher, Miss Sayers, to say thank you for all the encouragement she gave me then.
When not writing, I love reading, cats, Disney, singing (I can't sing but this doesn't stop me,) and falling into a good TV show or film. If I could step into any fictional world, it would be amongst the characters in ABC's Once Upon a Time.
I love reading many genres and discovering new authors.