Review of Kevin Wilson’s Now Is Not the Time to Panic
As a parent to two children born in the ’90s, Kevin Wilson’s Now Is Not the Time to Panic immediately tugged at my nostalgic heartstrings. The summer of 1996 was a pivotal point not only for my kids but also for a whole generation, and Wilson’s ability to capture the essence of that era is nothing short of magical. In a world devoid of smartphones and dominated by punk and alternative music, this novel dives deep into the quirky lives of its teen protagonists, Frankie and Zeke, in the small town of Coalfield, Tennessee.
The story begins with an intriguing hook: a journalist’s inquiry into the so-called “Coalfield Panic of 1996,” setting the stage for a tale that seamlessly intertwines art, friendship, and the chaotic beauty of adolescence. Frankie Budge, a lovable recluse with a flair for the strange, quickly became a character I felt a profound connection to. It’s impossible not to empathize with her journey of self-discovery, especially as she navigates the strange waters of teenage friendship and budding romance with the equally quirky Zeke. Their dynamic—born from a fiercely competitive watermelon pool contest—provides some of the book’s most hilarious and heartwarming moments.
Frankie’s aspiration to become an author pairs beautifully with Zeke’s talent as an artist, creating a symbiotic relationship that highlights the transformative power of art. Their decision to create an art piece featuring a wild, nonsensical phrase, “The edge is a shantytown filled with gold seekers. We are fugitives, and the law is skinny with hunger for us,” speaks volumes about their imaginative spirits and the absurdity of teenage life. This phrase, rooted in Wilson’s own experiences with Tourette syndrome and childhood struggles, anchors the narrative in authenticity—a reminder of the healing power of creativity.
The pacing of Wilson’s writing deftly balances the whimsical with the profound, drawing readers into the vibrant world of 1996. The characters are refreshingly real, driven by both their ambitions and insecurities. Frankie’s mom, trying her best to raise “four certifiably insane children,” adds a layer of warmth and charm to the story, showcasing the sweet chaos of family life.
One of my favorite moments is the hilariously awkward first kiss between Frankie and Zeke—it’s so relatable that it left me chuckling long after reading. Wilson’s knack for blending humor with poignant life lessons reminds us all of those awkward yet formative teenage moments we often cherish.
Now Is Not The Time to Panic stands as a poignant reminder of the beauty of awkwardness and innocence during a time before the internet transformed our lives. It’s a coming-of-age tale loaded with cultural references that will resonate especially well with anyone who grew up in the ’90s.
I wholeheartedly recommend this novel not only to fans of Kevin Wilson’s previous work but also to readers looking for a heartwarming journey through art, friendship, and the transformative power of those seemingly ordinary summer days. This book will resonate with anyone who remembers the bittersweet blend of youth and creativity, leaving you reminiscent and hopeful long after the final page.
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