Breathe - A Young Adult Tale of Self-Discovery and the Unseen World

The human experience is a symphony played on strings of emotion, logic, and intuition. Sometimes, those strings tangle, leaving us unsure which note to play next. This delicate dance between the known and unknown is beautifully explored in the Russian young adult novel “Breathe” by Natasha Skvortsova. Translated into English, this captivating story follows the journey of Anya, a seemingly ordinary teenager grappling with the weight of an extraordinary gift: she can see ghosts.

Skvortsova masterfully weaves together elements of fantasy and realism, creating a world where the veil between life and death is thin and translucent. We encounter Anya in her everyday life - navigating the complexities of school friendships, dealing with overbearing parents, and dreaming about a future beyond the confines of her small town. But beneath this seemingly ordinary facade lies a secret that sets Anya apart.

She can see them – the whispers from beyond, the figures lingering on the periphery, the echoes of souls who haven’t moved on. At first, these encounters are unsettling, leaving Anya questioning her sanity. Fear gives way to curiosity as she learns to decipher their messages, their unfinished business, and their pleas for closure.

Anya’s journey is not merely a ghostly adventure; it’s a profound exploration of self-discovery and acceptance. The ability to see ghosts becomes a catalyst for Anya to confront her own fears and insecurities. She learns to embrace her unique gift, recognizing that it allows her to connect with the unseen world in a way few others can.

The novel’s narrative unfolds through Anya’s perspective, drawing readers into her inner world – a tapestry of emotions, thoughts, and anxieties. Skvortsova’s prose is lyrical and evocative, capturing the ethereal nature of the ghostly realm with haunting beauty. We experience Anya’s trepidation as she cautiously approaches the spirits, her compassion as she listens to their stories, and her determination as she helps them find peace.

Through Anya’s interactions with these spectral figures, Skvortsova delves into themes of loss, grief, regret, and redemption. Each ghost carries a unique story, a life lived and interrupted, leaving behind unanswered questions and lingering emotions.

The Power of Empathy

Anya’s ability to see ghosts isn’t merely a supernatural ability; it’s a powerful symbol of empathy. Skvortsova portrays Anya learning to step into the shoes of those who have passed, understanding their pain, acknowledging their mistakes, and ultimately helping them find peace. This message resonates deeply, urging readers to cultivate empathy not just for those around them but also for those who are no longer physically present.

Beyond the Veil:

Skvortsova’s novel transcends the boundaries of a typical ghost story. It delves into the psychological complexities of grief and loss, exploring how these experiences shape individuals and their relationships with the world. Anya’s journey is ultimately one of self-acceptance and understanding. She learns that her gift, while unique and sometimes overwhelming, allows her to connect with something profound and meaningful beyond the realm of the living.

Production Features:

“Breathe” was originally published in Russia as “Дыши” (Dyashi) in 2018. The English translation by Sasha Dugdale was released in 2021 by Pushkin Press, a renowned publisher specializing in bringing international literature to an English-speaking audience.

The novel’s cover art, featuring Anya standing on a bridge with a translucent figure beside her, perfectly captures the ethereal nature of the story. The use of muted colors and soft lighting creates a sense of mystery and otherworldliness, inviting readers to delve into the unseen world alongside Anya.

Skvortsova’s “Breathe” is a captivating read for young adults and anyone who enjoys stories that explore the intersection of reality and fantasy. It’s a story about self-discovery, empathy, and the enduring power of human connection, even beyond the boundaries of life and death. This thought-provoking novel will stay with you long after you turn the final page.