Sam wants what he believes most people want, acceptance, love, maybe even a commitment some day. When Sam meets Casey at Westside State University, he thinks he has found the perfect person to start his life with. Sam thinks he has found the woman of his dreams. Follow along with Sam through the years of his union with Casey within a world where the rules have changed. Men are no longer the more powerful gender, women have claimed that role. Explore what happens to Sam within this type of world when he chains himself to an unsafe partner. Experience how a society built on a power imbalance impacts all those that reside within it. How much can one person endure before they descend into madness? How much can one’s own self worth be suppressed before they snap? Sam is about to find out.
Assessment:
Plot/Idea: Calm. Down. Dear. is a thoughtful and affecting story that exposes a society quivering with power imbalances.
Prose: Stacy Walsh's text is simplistic and direct. The author confidently captures the tension and drama of a difficult and testing relationship despite an occasionally repetitive and labored approach.
Originality: Calm. Down. Dear. is a fine drama that bravely attempts to tackle issues surrounding mental health in relationships.
Character/Execution: Sam and Casey are the protagonists of Walsh's drama and the raw, emotional depth of these characters seeps off the pages. The tension that develops in their relationship is astutely realized and profoundly affecting.
Date Submitted: May 30, 2024
