Accustomed to the Dark

In Accustomed to the Dark by Thomas DeConna, twenty-four-year-old journalist Jenny Smith scores a career-defining interview with reclusive author AJ Kenton. But instead of questions, their afternoons unfold as Kenton shares a transformative story from his youth. This coming-of-age novel deftly captures the struggles and triumphs of adolescence through the eyes of 13-year-old AJ. Set in a small suburban town during the 1960s, the narrative begins with AJ’s simple ambition to sell flower seeds to purchase an art set. However, his journey takes on deeper meaning through encounters with characters like Mrs. Billings, Mrs. Newcross, and Mr. Carter, each representing different facets of life's challenges and personal growth. This literary fiction delivers a stunning social commentary on the America of the 1960s and captivating portraits of families in the different sections of the social ladder.  

Thomas DeConna is a gifted storyteller who infuses the writing with using, creating a story within a story, and introducing characters that are not only believable but elaborately explored. AJ’s character arc is spectacular; his initial shyness gradually gives way to self-awareness and confidence as he learns from those around him. Mrs. Billings is a nurturing figure, amplifying the importance of support in a young person's life. At the same time, Mrs. Newcross presents a more complex exploration of identity, urging the reader to consider the multifaceted nature of self-discovery. Mr. Carter, as an authoritative figure, introduces themes of responsibility and discipline that resonate throughout AJ’s development. DeConna expertly weaves themes of empathy, identity, and social justice into the narrative, offering reflections on the experiences of marginalized communities of the era. The suburban setting provides a rich backdrop against which the characters’ struggles unfold. Through vivid imagery and well-drawn characters, Accustomed to the Dark captures the beauty and pain of growing up and emphasizes the significance of emotional connections. And, yes, the first-person narrative voice is executed with an emotional energy that will leave no reader untouched.