This coming-of-age story left me with bittersweet feelings. The protagonist, an unnamed narrator, tells the story about his last year in elementary school, when his younger sister is still somehow 'weird' (if 'quirky' isn't enough for you) and his older brother, Jim, still played with him and acted as his protector. I agree with the older review left by mark monday, which states that, "...a sweet and melancholy dreaminess gives this book a soft glow" because that is exactly it.

The narrative just... glides along. There is also uncertainty in the way the story unfolds, just like how it would be when an almost-loser-but-not-quite-so 11? 12? year-old boy who dreads his schoolteacher (as well as school bully) tries to convey something important but lacks perspectives (and comprehension) of an older human being to do so well.

I experienced the same feelings when reading Stephen King's [b:The Body|38926465|The Body|Stephen King|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1527495506l/38926465._SY75_.jpg|88565283]. Unlike The Body, The Shadow Year has some supernatural elements (albeit not too much), but the overall vibe is similar.

The only reason I can't give this book a 5-star review even if I really like it (and it won Shirley Jackson awards!!!!) is because I can't really wrap my head around the ending. Seriously, what's with the Softee eyes card?