Hold Still Summary & Key Insights

Nina LaCour's "Hold Still" tells the interwoven stories of two young women, Sal and Thane, connected by a shared past and a photography project that forces them to confront unresolved emotions and long-held secrets. The narrative unfolds over the summer, primarily in the small, close-knit Californian town where they both grew up.

Sal, a budding photographer, is grappling with the recent death of her grandmother, Nana Rose, a significant figure in her life. Assigned a summer photography project focusing on capturing the essence of their town, Sal initially struggles to find inspiration, her grief clouding her vision. She's also navigating the complexities of her relationship with her mother and the lingering feelings she harbors for her ex-girlfriend, Margot.

Thane, a vibrant and talented artist, returns to their hometown after several years away, seeking solace and escape. Haunted by a traumatic event she experienced as a child, she's reluctant to engage with her past and avoids her childhood friends. Thane's photography project becomes a means of confronting her suppressed memories and processing the emotions that have shaped her life.

As Sal and Thane independently embark on their photography projects, their paths intertwine. They begin to connect, sharing their experiences and offering each other silent understanding. The act of photography becomes a catalyst for introspection and self-discovery for both of them. Through their photographs, they unintentionally chronicle the lives of other townspeople, revealing hidden connections and unspoken stories within their community.

The photographs themselves become a bridge between Sal and Thane, connecting them through shared experiences, and enabling them to explore the lasting impact of past events. Sal begins to see the beauty in her hometown and move past her grief, while Thane uses photography as a therapeutic outlet to process her trauma.

A key plot point revolves around a mysterious incident from Thane's past involving a shared friend, connecting the narrative strands and revealing the underlying anxieties and unspoken truths within the town. This incident also highlights the power of silence and the ripple effects of unresolved trauma.

Overarching themes include the power of memory and nostalgia, the healing aspects of art and creative expression, and the importance of community and shared experience in overcoming personal struggles. The novel also explores the complexities of grief, trauma, and the process of self-discovery during adolescence. Ultimately, "Hold Still" is a poignant coming-of-age story about finding solace, acceptance, and understanding in unexpected places, proving that even in stillness, life continues to unfold.