Rainbow Rowell - Carry On (Simon Snow, #1)

I never read Rainbow Rowell’s Fangirl. As shocking as some might find that statement, I rarely reach for modern contemporary, so it did not have any appeal to me. This also meant I started reading Carry On with no expectations for how the story should unfold, as I was unaware of the existence of these characters, or fake fan fiction written about them within the Fangirl universe. However, even without a prior encounter with Rowell’s work, it is quite clear that conceptualisation of Simon Snow was heavily influenced by the Harry Potter series, with many evident similarities. However, as it would be a mistake to judge Carry On solely based on its inspiration, let’s get into the review!

As many chosen ones before him, be it in literature or film, Simon Snow is prophesied to defeat a terrifying foe terrorising his world, the Insidious Humdrum. However, while he may be powerful, his lack of control over his powers poses a significant problem, particularly considering the fact the final showdown is getting closer and closer. Simon’s personal life is in shambles as well, with his girlfriend breaking up with him and his mentor clearly avoiding him. The absence of his nemesis, Baz, tops it all off, as he must be clearly plotting Simon’s demise...

We meet Simon, the protagonist of Carry On, on his way to begin the final year at Watford School of Magicks. He clearly misses it, however, according to a self-imposed rule, never thinks about it over the summer. On his way back, he goes over the list of the things he misses most about the school, which is quite telling of his personality - he is clearly deeply loyal to his friends, always worried that he might hurt them somehow. His stubbornness is also evident from his quest to prove Baz is a vampire, which he apparently tried to do ever since they met. That is some dedication! Seeing as Simon falls into the ‘chosen one’ archetype, there was a danger of making him overpowered, and thus simply boring to read about. The lack of control he has over said powers prevents this, and nicely links back to his devotion to his friends, as his outbursts of power, and associations with the Mage put them at risk. 

As for the other characters, there are few standout ones, including Baz. The stark contrast between what he is introduced as - sarcastic, evil and patronising - and his point of view is the main selling point for me. Reading about his internal struggles, and desire to impress his late mother make him a compelling character by humanising him.

Despite that, it is Penelope that steals the show for me. She is incredibly smart, and values the pursuit of knowledge. However, her curiosity, combined with bravery and fierce loyalty to Simon tend to out her in dangerous situations, as illustrated by the many references towards the previous years at the school. There was the obvious danger of making her into a walking stereotype, as she checks the box for many cliches (including the obvious comparisons to the epitome of female token friend, Hermione Granger), but thankfully, this was avoided.

I also liked the juxtaposition of Agatha’s character with the others. Her reluctance to even be a part of the magical world is something I have never really encountered before in a fantasy novel, being a part of it is always a given. This also gave a unique look into power differences, and how they may affect social standing of mages, who, despite their powers, still are not free of the confines of their respective classes. 

The relationship between Simon and Baz began with hatred when they met, as the heirs of the Mage and the incredibly powerful Pitch family respectively, they were destined to hate each other. This turns into a truce in Carry On, as they are united by a common goal, and eventually confess their feelings. While their interactions fall into a lot of stereotypical pining, and there is a good measure of angst involved, somehow, it is extremely easy to root for them.

Instead of writing an entire book series based on Simon’s adventures, Rowell skips right to the finale. This is an interesting choice, as it allowed her to avoid even more extensive comparisons to the Harry Potter series (granted, Rowling did not invent the magical school trope, we have Ursula K. Le Guin to thank for that) and in a way, more unique take on the chosen one trope, one that focuses on the aftermath of the final showdown, and its emotional implications. That is not to say the novel lacks action, it is well paced and switching of the point of views serves as an excellent tool to describe the characters and slowly unravel the mystery. 

Carry On is an interesting take on the all too familiar chosen one trope, focused on the emotional impact and baggage the events have on the characters, rather than the logistics of saving the world. While the setting lacks originality, the execution and characters deserve praise, making it an entertaining, albeit mediocre read. 

Rating: 5/10