Estimated read time: 6 min read
One Sentence Summary
A young Marine returns home from war and struggles to adjust to civilian life, finding solace in an unexpected connection.
Table of Contents
Introduction
In the compelling and emotional novel "Something Like Normal" by Trish Doller, readers are taken on a journey of self-discovery and redemption. This young adult contemporary fiction explores the aftermath of war and the challenges faced by those returning home from the battlefield. Through vivid storytelling and relatable characters, Doller delves into themes of resilience, forgiveness, and the power of human connection.
Brief Synopsis
The story is set in a small town in Florida, where the protagonist, Travis Stephenson, returns after serving a tour of duty in Afghanistan. Travis is haunted by the memories of war and struggles to adjust to civilian life. His family and friends are grappling with their own issues, making his homecoming far from the idyllic reunion he had hoped for.
Setting
The setting of "Something Like Normal" is a small town in Florida. The town serves as a backdrop for the story, symbolizing the contrast between the tranquility of civilian life and the chaos of war. The familiar streets and familiar faces become a constant reminder of the life Travis left behind when he joined the military.
Main Characters
| Character Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Travis Stephenson | The protagonist and a Marine Corps soldier returning from Afghanistan. He is haunted by his experiences at war and struggles to find his place back home. |
| Harper Scott | Travis's childhood friend and love interest. She is dealing with her own family issues and provides Travis with emotional support. |
| Kyle Stephenson | Travis's younger brother who looks up to him. Kyle is rebellious and struggles to understand his brother's changed behavior. |
| Dad (Jim Stephenson) | Travis's father, a strict and distant man who finds it difficult to express his emotions. |
| Mom (Mary Stephenson) | Travis's mother, who tries to keep the family together and support her sons in their own ways. |
Summary of Story Points Over Chapters
Chapter 1: Homecoming
Travis returns home from Afghanistan and is greeted by his family and friends. He struggles to reconnect with them and feels like a stranger in his own town.
Chapter 2: Flashbacks
Travis experiences vivid flashbacks of his time in Afghanistan, reliving traumatic events and struggling with survivor's guilt. These flashbacks intensify his feelings of alienation and isolation.
Chapter 3: Reconnecting with Harper
Travis reconnects with Harper, his childhood friend and love interest. Harper provides him with emotional support and helps him navigate his complicated emotions.
Chapter 4: Kyle's Rebellion
Kyle, Travis's younger brother, rebels against their father's strict rules and seeks validation from Travis. Travis tries to balance being a role model while dealing with his own struggles.
Chapter 5: Confronting the Past
Travis confronts the family of a fallen soldier he served with in Afghanistan, seeking closure and forgiveness. This encounter forces him to face the reality of war and the consequences it has on everyone involved.
Chapter 6: Healing and Redemption
Travis begins attending therapy sessions and opens up about his experiences in war. Through therapy, he starts to understand the importance of forgiveness and the potential for healing.
Chapter 7: Rebuilding Relationships
Travis works on rebuilding his relationships with his family and friends. He learns to communicate his feelings and finds solace in their support.
Chapter 8: Accepting the New Normal
Travis realizes that he will never be the same person he was before the war. He accepts his new normal and embraces the hope of a brighter future.
Main Events
- Travis's return from Afghanistan and struggle to readjust to civilian life.
- Travis's vivid flashbacks and memories of war.
- Travis's reconnection with Harper and their evolving relationship.
- Kyle's rebellion and his search for validation from Travis.
- Travis's confrontation with the family of a fallen soldier.
- Travis's journey of healing and redemption through therapy.
- Travis's efforts to rebuild his relationships with his family and friends.
- Travis's acceptance of his new normal and his hopeful outlook for the future.
Themes and Insights
Resilience and Healing
The novel explores the resilience of the human spirit and the capacity for healing after experiencing trauma. Travis's journey is a testament to the strength of individuals in overcoming adversity and finding hope in the face of despair.
Forgiveness and Redemption
Trish Doller delves into the themes of forgiveness and redemption, showing that healing and moving forward require the ability to forgive oneself and others. Travis's encounter with the family of a fallen soldier forces him to confront his guilt and seek forgiveness, leading to his own redemption.
The Impact of War
"Something Like Normal" sheds light on the profound and lasting impact of war on individuals and their loved ones. It explores the physical and emotional scars left by combat and the challenges faced by veterans reintegrating into society.
Reader's Takeaway
"Something Like Normal" is a poignant and honest exploration of the complexities of war and its aftermath. Trish Doller's storytelling grips readers from the first page, allowing them to empathize with Travis's struggles and triumphs. This novel serves as a reminder of the power of resilience, forgiveness, and the importance of human connection in overcoming adversity.
Conclusion
Trish Doller's "Something Like Normal" is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that tackles the challenging themes of war, trauma, and healing. Through well-developed characters and an engaging plot, this book offers readers a glimpse into the lives of those affected by war and the transformative power of resilience and forgiveness. Doller's storytelling skills shine through, leaving a lasting impact on readers and prompting reflection on the resilience of the human spirit.
Something like Normal FAQ
What is the genre of 'Something like Normal'?
The genre of 'Something like Normal' is young adult contemporary fiction.
Who is the author of 'Something like Normal'?
The author of 'Something like Normal' is Trish Doller.
What is the main theme of 'Something like Normal'?
The main theme of 'Something like Normal' revolves around PTSD, family dynamics, and finding oneself.
Who is the protagonist of 'Something like Normal'?
The protagonist of 'Something like Normal' is Travis Stephenson.
What is the setting of 'Something like Normal'?
The story is set in a small town in Florida, USA, where Travis returns after serving in the Marines.
Is 'Something like Normal' a standalone novel or part of a series?
'Something like Normal' is a standalone novel.
Does 'Something like Normal' contain any romantic elements?
Yes, 'Something like Normal' has a romantic subplot.
Is 'Something like Normal' suitable for young adult readers?
Yes, 'Something like Normal' is specifically written for young adult readers.
Does 'Something like Normal' address important social issues?
Yes, 'Something like Normal' addresses important social issues such as war, PTSD, and the challenges faced by veterans.
What is the overall tone of 'Something like Normal'?
The overall tone of 'Something like Normal' is realistic, emotional, and thought-provoking.
