In Mila Norquist's "Jesus Is My Vaccine," Amy Wilson's election to the school board takes an unexpected turn when the COVID-19 pandemic hits. Her science-based approach to pandemic management—including closures and mask mandates—makes her a target for shadowy figures opposed to vaccination. Facing relentless intimidation and threats, Amy finds unlikely allies in her retired-cop uncle and her father. This suspenseful novel blends humor and intrigue as Amy battles a campaign designed to remove her from office. With quirky characters and a compelling plot, "Jesus Is My Vaccine" explores the clash between personal beliefs and public health in a time of crisis.
Review Jesus Is My Vaccine
"Jesus Is My Vaccine" by Mila Norquist is a wild ride! I honestly wasn't sure what to expect going in, but I was completely captivated from the first chapter. The premise – a school board election turning into a full-blown battleground during a pandemic – is instantly relatable, even if the specifics are wildly exaggerated. And that's the brilliance of it! Norquist doesn't shy away from the absurdity of our current political climate, using biting satire and laugh-out-loud humor to skewer the extremes on both sides. I found myself chuckling constantly, often at the sheer audacity of some of the situations and characters.
The author’s skillful blend of humor and suspense keeps the pages turning. While the comedic elements are definitely front and center, there’s a genuine underlying tension as Amy faces escalating threats. The supporting characters, especially her uncle and dad, are quirky and endearing, providing a heartwarming counterpoint to the craziness unfolding around them. They're wonderfully developed, with their own unique personalities and motivations that feel authentic, even amidst the heightened reality of the story. The dialogue sparkles; it's witty, sharp, and perfectly captures the distinct voices of each character, adding another layer of enjoyment.
What really struck me, beyond the clever satire, was the fascinating subplot exploring the polio epidemic and its lingering effects. This comparison to the COVID-19 pandemic isn't just a backdrop; it's a shrewd commentary on our societal responses to crises, highlighting the stark differences in how we approached these two significant public health challenges. It's a powerful and thought-provoking element that adds depth and nuance to the overall narrative, preventing the book from becoming solely a comedic romp. It prompts reflection on our collective behavior, our priorities, and the long-term consequences of our choices.
It's a bold debut novel. Norquist doesn’t pull any punches, tackling sensitive topics with both a light touch and a serious undercurrent. The book is undeniably funny, but it also manages to be insightful and even a little poignant at times. It’s a clever commentary on our society's tendency to turn everything into a political battle, making even the most vital public health issues fodder for division and conflict. While it leans heavily towards criticizing certain conservative viewpoints, it's not without its broader criticisms, poking fun at the flaws and hypocrisies present across the political spectrum. Ultimately, "Jesus Is My Vaccine" is a highly entertaining and surprisingly insightful read, a perfect blend of sharp wit, suspenseful plotting, and genuinely thought-provoking social commentary. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a clever and engaging novel that will leave you both laughing and thinking.
Information
- Dimensions: 6 x 0.8 x 9 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 354
- Publication date: 2024
Preview Book
