After finishing the book The Icarus Girl in class, I was extremely confused and mad there was no clear cut answer for the conclusion of the story. I tried to go back and reread certain sections of the book, but still didn't find any evidence.
I did further research online and with our class discussions I realized that the author, Helen Oyeyemi, mixes reality and spirituality into this piece. She incorporated Nigerian mythology into the story which assists in it making more sense.
The story is about Jessamay, and 8 year old girl who doesn't seem to fit into the norms of an average 8 year old girl. Her mother is Nigerian and her father English, living in England makes it difficult for her to know her place in the world. It is not until she takes her first visit to Nigeria and meets a girl named TillyTilly who seems to "understand" her. Soon, with Jess's extraordinary imagination, TillyTilly's presence becomes disturbing and Jess becomes more and more afraid of her and even more afraid to let go.
At first, I as a reader, felt that TillyTilly was and imaginary friend, all apart of Jess's imagination, but after further reading found that couldn't be true. How would TillyTilly and Jessy have broken into Colleen's house and not have anybody see them? TillyTilly reveals herself as Jessamay's twin and I feel most confident in this explanation.
''Stop looking to belong, half-and-half child,'' TillyTilly intones. ''Stop. There is nothing; there is only me, and I have caught you.'' This quote from the book hit me with the most feeling, it finally struck me that TillyTilly was trying to take control of Jessamay's life and everyone in it. She went from being a playful childhood friend to evil.
Though I am still disappointed with the ending of the book, it is one I can keep reflecting on and make new connections with. I think the reason I was so disappointed is I like to know exactly what happened, not have to make up my own mind. Overall I felt it was an extremely interesting and unique read.
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