4 Years Trapped in My Mind Palace is truly a 5-Star Coming-of-Age book. At age 14, Aaron contracts a rare form of meningitis which paralyzes his body but leaves his mind intact. Because he has no way to communicate, it is assumed that he is in a vegetative state.
You may think this sets up a dull story, but it is quite the opposite! Aaron and his new friend Sol experience historical vignettes ranging from the 1920s through the 1980s, touching on wars, jazz, an earthquake and culture.
I recommend this book for Middle Grade and up. It contains elements of Fantasy, Time Travel, and Telepathy, all popular in Young Adult fiction today, but without a dark side common to so many YA books.
An overriding theme is acceptance of people of other races and who profess other religions. Yet this is presented without anyone being obliged to feel guilty for being born a “favored” skin color or nationality, or for being in a majority.
Love, forgiveness, death and loyalty are also explored, giving the characters dimension and likable personalities. 4 Years Trapped in My Mind Palace is an inspirational story that will leave you uplifted and hopeful.