A Prayer for Acceptance: A Review of Say a Little Prayer by Jenna Voris
When I first picked up Say a Little Prayer, I was drawn in by the promise of a heartfelt exploration of faith and identity, set against the backdrop of a conservative church culture. Jenna Voris has quickly become one of my must-read authors, especially after I fell in love with her earlier work, Every Time You Hear That Song. With her latest novel, Voris dives deep into the complexities of being a queer teen in a world that often feels unforgiving, and let me tell you, it does not disappoint.
At the heart of Say a Little Prayer is Riley, a brave teenager confronting her sexuality amidst the suffocating expectations of her former church, Pleasant Hills Baptist. The narrative takes a poignant turn when Riley’s older sister, Hannah, is publicly shamed and kicked out by Pastor Young, the church’s domineering leader. This incident serves as the catalyst for Riley’s journey, as the very community she once belonged to becomes a source of pain and isolation. Voris expertly portrays Riley’s emotional turmoil, which is further complicated by her friendships with Ben and Julia—Pastor Young’s children—who represent both solace and conflict.
One of the standout elements of Voris’s writing in this novel is her ability to craft relatable characters who make mistakes yet exhibit profound growth. Riley’s decisions, while at times reckless, feel genuine and typical of the adolescent experience. Voris doesn’t shy away from the messy parts of growing up, allowing readers to empathize deeply with Riley’s struggles. As she attends the uncomfortable youth camp post-altercation at school, we experience her tension and defiance as she resolves to write an essay exposing her church’s hypocrisy. It’s an empowering moment that left me cheering for her as she confronts the very foundation of her former beliefs.
The dual narrative between Riley and Julia sheds light on the diverse experiences of queer teens, particularly those caught in religious environments. Voris does a tremendous job illustrating how Riley’s supportive family contrasts sharply with Julia’s indoctrination into fear-based teachings. The subtle dynamics between these characters are compelling and made me reflect on my own friendships and the different pressures my peers faced during our formative years.
Voris’s writing shines through her smart and witty dialogue, weaving humor seamlessly into moments of serious reflection. She poses thought-provoking questions about faith, acceptance, and the often rigid morality enforced by religious authorities. “What happens when religion doesn’t bring joy or peace?” is a question that lingers long after the last page.
While the conclusion may not wrap everything up in a neat bow, its realistic ending feels fitting for a book that tackles such heavy themes. The emotional spectrum I experienced while reading— from joy and inspiration to sadness—made this book a resonant and unforgettable experience.
Say a Little Prayer is a treasure for young adults grappling with similar themes of identity, faith, and societal pressures. It’s a story that I hope will resonate with many LGBTQ+ teens and their allies, showing them that they are not alone in their struggles. For those who appreciate smart, relevant storytelling filled with authenticity and heart, Jenna Voris’s latest offering is a must-read. Trust me, after diving into Say a Little Prayer, you’ll find yourself reflecting on your own beliefs and the connections that define you.