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Reviewed by Romuald Dzemo for Readers' Favorite
In Channeling Marilyn by Mima Tipper, high school senior Alexandria “Lexa” Donovan is thrust into a world she hasn’t prepared for. She is randomly selected by lottery to play the lead role of Cherie in the school’s production of Bus Stop. She struggles with stage fright, and the idea of reproducing the legacy of Marilyn Monroe intimidates and overwhelms her. Lexa wants to quit, but something unexpected happens: the actual spirit of Marilyn Monroe inhabits her mind. It offers guidance and inspires confidence while helping her create a connection with the world she misses. Lexa must also handle complex relationships with her best friend, Em, her co-star, Brian McKinnon, on whom she has a crush, and her growing attraction to the intriguing Jeremy Leith. The production moves toward professional theater, and the schedule tightens. Lexa must face her insecurities, grief over the death of her mother, and a classmate sabotaging her. Can she succeed in this new role, and what becomes of her identity?
Channeling Marilyn is thoughtfully plotted, and the author demonstrates a great deal of skill in character development. Lexa is timid, she is not physically appealing, and she is aware of that. The beauty of this story is how theater can help people shape their perceptions of self and build confidence. Mima Tipper brings to life the dynamics of high school life and creates relationships that feel genuine. The plot kept me thinking about the drama of my high school days. I enjoyed following the two objects of Lexa’s obvious anxiety and Marilyn’s captivating input. It is interesting as Lexa morphs from an obscure character into a lead player in the production. There is a lot of humor and heart in this story, and I couldn’t put it down.
