Mirror to Mirror by Rajani LaRocca – Book Review

Title: Mirror to Mirror Author: Rajani LaRocca Publisher: Quill Tree Books Release Date: March 21, 2023

Maya and Chaya are identical twins and nearly inseparable. Each is the other’s world around which they orbit. Yet, they’re also unique, and those differences allow them to shine in their own ways, especially when it comes to music. Maya also suffers from debilitating anxiety, a struggle she desperately tries to keep a secret. Their Indian American family itself also brings its own drama, adding to the twins’ problems. With this backdrop, when Chaya pushes Maya to reveal her secret, Maya pushes her sister away and shuts her out. Chaya, who would do anything for her sister, gives Maya the space she thinks Maya needs. Both try to do what they believe is best for the other, but it is not until the sisters choose to walk in each other’s shoes they’re truly able to get insight into the others’ perspective. Then, from a place of empathy, they have a chance to heal and reconnect.

LaRocca dazzles with another exquisite novel in verse. Mirror to Mirror is lyrical, reflective, and – like true life – perfectly messy. The twin perspectives on the same or similar events and situations add depth and dramatic irony, both of which increases the emotional stakes for the young girls and the reader. The novel’s structure also reflects the powerful connection between the twins, and at the same time emphasizes their distinct differences. These differences become more and more clear as the narrative develops, another strength. LaRocca’s inclusion of music echoes the struggles Maya and Chaya face, adding yet another interesting facet to this complex story. Through it all, Mirror to Mirror conveys powerful lessons on perspective, family, sisterhood, and identity that readers will keep with them long after their time with Maya and Chaya ends.

Mirror to Mirror would be a fantastic addition to a literature circle study of novels in verse. Its universal themes, lyrical poetry, and unique character relationships provide value to readers as opportunities for deep reflection and openings to discuss mental health issues and awareness. While the proliferation of novels in verse might have readers weary of the genre, LaRocca’s beautiful narrative is simply too good to be ignored.

Classroom Applications

• Cross-Curricular Study – Teach the novel in conjunction with a Science unit about genetics and twins.
• Book Club or Book Exchange – Share the novel with students that enjoy reading novels in verse.

Nonfiction Connections

The list below outlines topics that will enrich your students’ understanding of the novel.

• Genetics & Twins
• Music Theory
• Mental Health Awareness

Book Companions

The following are great books to pair with Mirror to Mirror. In parenthesis are the specific aspects students could explore when synthesizing across the texts.

• Everywhere Blue by Joanne Rossmassler Fritz (Themes, Nonfiction Connections, Character Connections)
• Red, White & Whole by Rajani LaRocca (Themes, Nonfiction Connections, Character Connections)
• The Thing I’m Most Afraid Of by Kristin Levine (Themes, Nonfiction Connections, Character Connections)

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