Emily Dickinson’s life has been extensively chronicled, both in print and through various pop culture portrayals. In “Nobody’s Secret,” Michaela MacColl crafts a fascinating story inspired by Dickinson’s poem “I’m Nobody! Who are you?” The book imagines a fifteen-year-old Emily living in Amherst and stumbling upon a mystery.
Emily’s daily life is mundane, filled with chores and secretive writing in her notebooks. Her mother is overly concerned, and her father is often absent, leaving Emily with only her sister, Vinnie, as a confidante. Life takes a turn when Emily meets a charming stranger in a field near her home. Intrigued by the stranger, she hopes this encounter will bring some excitement into her routine.
They chat briefly, engaging in playful banter and exchanging names as Mr. Nobody and Miss Nobody. Despite his fine clothes, Emily notices his calloused hands and a handkerchief with the initials J.W. before he departs, claiming he has business to tend to. Although curious about him, Emily keeps the meeting a secret from Vinnie.
The next day, Emily uses an errand as an excuse to see Mr. Nobody again. However, her plans are interrupted when a man is found dead in the pond on her family’s property. The town is clueless about his identity, and his body is stored in the church awaiting recognition. Determined to uncover the truth, Emily is shocked to realize the deceased is Mr. Nobody.
Frustrated by not knowing his real name, Emily embarks on a mission with Vinnie to uncover his identity. They dig through clues and secrets, some belonging to their own neighbors, and their investigation leads them down a dangerous path. They soon realize that someone might be watching them, and they could be in jeopardy just as Mr. Nobody was.
“Nobody’s Secret” is a thrilling mystery filled with unexpected twists that keep the reader engaged. Michaela MacColl masterfully blends historical fiction with elements of romance, staying true to Emily Dickinson’s real-life character. The story is fast-paced, despite having many characters, and concludes with a surprising ending, making it an excellent choice for a cozy, rainy day read.
In terms of adaptation, the 19th-century Amherst setting would look stunning on the big screen, reminiscent of the beautiful visuals in the 1994 adaptation of “Little Women.” For the role of Emily Dickinson, Emily Browning would be a suitable choice, bringing the character’s quiet strength to life. Austin Butler could capture Mr. Nobody’s charm, and Sabrina Carpenter would excel as Vinnie, Emily’s supportive sister.
“Nobody’s Secret” offers an engaging experience, making it a book worth checking out.
