Naked Girl

by Janna Brooke Wallack

Growing up motherless in 1980's Miami Beach, Sienna and her little brother Siddhartha get by with their charismatic and capricious father, • Jackson Jones. When a small windfall relocates them to a condemned mansion on the water, the siblings are forbidden traditional schooling and left to live off the land. As Jackson uses their new home to create a communal cult, the siblings are forced to raise themselves in a carefree, chaotic oasis. Living amidst the vagrant seekers who take up residence in Jackson's utopia, Sienna and Siddhartha strive to protect their unconventional family.Janna Brooke Wallack writes with warmth, compassion and comic brilliance in Naked Girl, an enthralling debut novel brimming with the adventure, resilience, humor and heartbreak of growing up on the fringe of decency and longing for the unattainable comfort of home.

Genres: Coming Of Age, Historical Fiction, Fiction, Historical, Contemporary, Emotional, Literary Fiction

350 pages, Hardcover

Published March 9, 2024

About the author

Janna Brooke Wallack’s debut novel Naked Girl has won or been short listed for several indie book awards including: The Eric Hoffer Grand Prize, The Eric Hoffer First Horizons Award, The Eric Hoffer Award for Best Ebook, Book Viral’s Golden Quill, Reader’s Favorite's Bronze Medal for Literary Fiction, Indie B.R.A.G. Medallion, the Silver Medal in Literary Fiction from CIPA EVVY, and Naked Girl was a finalist for Publisher’s Weekly’s BookLife Prize for Fiction.

Wallack’s short stories have appeared in literary publications such as Hobart, Upstreet, and American Literary Review. Her short story “Campaigning” was a finalist for the Lascaux Prize in Short Fiction. Naked Girl’s prologue, “Five Pictures,” was a finalist for Glimmer Train Press’s Short Story Award for New Writers, and her story “Cat and Rose” received a Pushcart nomination from The MacGuffin.

She grew up in Miami Beach in the 1970’s and 80’s, a landscape and childhood that inspired her book Naked Girl. She now resides in New York’s Hudson River Valley where she writes, works, and never gives up trying to lose ten pounds.

Reviews

[The Page Ladies Book Club · Rating 5 out of 5]

Naked Girls is an emotional coming of age story about two sisters that have an amazing bond! Sienna and Siddhartha are amazing characters! It was easy to find a little bit of ourselves in each of the girls making them relatable and in some way giving us a connection to them! The writing is wonderful! It was so easy to get lost in the pages! It's the type of book that will stay long after the last page! It's a story full of humor, heartbreak, love, hope, resilience and more! Truly a wonderful story! Thank you Janna Brooke Wallack for sharing this amazing story with us! We are looking forward to reading more from you!

[Stacy40pages · Rating 4 out of 5]

Naked Girl by Janna Brooke Wallack. Thanks to the author for the gifted copy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Sienna and Siddhartha live with their father in a condemned mansion. They aren’t allowed traditional schooling, and live as part of their father’s drug fueled, free love, communal cult.

I love coming of age stories and this one was very unique with the different and very unusual upbringing. I loved both Sienna and Siddhartha. This is the type of story that will make you laugh, cry, and feel shocked. It’s quite the saga, quite the story, and a very emotional journey.

Naked Girl is available now.

[Rochelle Weinstein · Rating 5 out of 5]

Janna Wallack is an extremely talented writer with a unique voice. Naked Girl is original and emotional---pulling the reader in immediately. I found the characters real and relatable....the perfect coming of age story. Looking forward to reading more of her work.

[Sachi Ito · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really intriguing story

This was such an interesting read. Right away, I felt connected to the characters. The way it is written, it’s so warm and inviting. We can easily see Sienna‘s strength and how she looks out for younger Siddhartha. Everything seems normal enough, until you get deep into the story. The father is quite the character. Very entertaining/funny narrative, with undertones of deep thought provoking subject matter. Definitely one to check out if you’re looking for something different.

[Kristen Wasyliszyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Get this book.
I “met” Janna Brooke Wallack online a few months back after laughing at some of her online posts. Turns out she had a book out in my preferred genre. Who knew my new pal was BIG LEGIT?
Her book, Naked Girl is a gol-damn marvel. I mean come on…

”She made everything too precious, in her desperate bid to transform nicked-up, mundane reality into delicate perfection with only the power of her need. Hers was a precarious method of living a life, with every person, every moment, every suggestion or outcome always falling short of a more peaceful and gorgeous one. She was the fragile sum of all of her disappointments, but you had to hand it to her because she kept on trying.”

Wow.

Naked Girl has so many stop- me- in -my- tracks moments I stopped highlighting.
The tempo of this book is even, the story fascinating and characters likeable.
I also appreciate the depth she gives the kids. So often, children’s characters are portrayed in a condescending way. Wallack gave them the humanity they deserved without placating, making the story easy to connect with. And who doesn’t like a good sibling story peppered with cool 80’s references?
Roman a’Clef? Perhaps.
Well done. I look forward to more of your writing/storytelling/empathetic offerings.

[Mps · Rating 2 out of 5]

An unconventional coming of age story about 2 children (Sienna and Siddhi) who live with their irresponsible, drug-dealing father and his evolving cult. I found this story interesting enough to finish, but mildly disturbing and upsetting.
TW: child neglect, rape

[Tracey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! It was filled with humor, heartbreak, pain and resilience. A truly original coming of age story that I couldn’t put down and which will stay with you long past the day you read the last page.

[Lauryn Allums · Rating 5 out of 5]

After finishing the book, I can't believe this is Wallack's first published book! It brought back the same feelings I had when I read "The Outsiders" for the first time. I absolutely loved it! Sienna and Siddhartha captured my heart from the beginning to the end. At the start of the book, I wasn't sure what to expect from the two characters. I didn't anticipate the depth of the story. I appreciated that the writing didn't shy away from portraying painful, realistic events. These events, along with the less painful ones, provided new perspectives on my life, as well as the lives of those I know and those I don't. If I could erase my memory and experience this beautifully written coming-of-age story again, I would! I highly recommend reading this book now to experience the range of emotions that "Naked Girl" has to offer!

[Ellen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Debut alert! This debut is fantastic! Seriously, the writing is spectacular and I am amazed it is Wallack’s first published book. The language makes the scenes come to life vividly. The characters are fascinating and explored in depth. I love this type of literary book that’s not afraid to tackle complicated situations. This book has staying power; parts of it will stick with me for a long time.

The story follows Sienna and Siddhartha as they live an unusual, chaotic, and sometimes scary life involving drugs, sex, and the cult led by their father. The siblings have a close bond and go through many experiences both together and apart while trying to keep hold of a sense of family.

TW: SA and SH

[Laura Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommend Naked Girl by Janna Brooke Wallack! It’s an amazing — and at times shocking — story about a young Jewish girl and her brother growing up in a very unconventional household in Miami Beach during the 1970s and ’80s. The book captures all the wild challenges they faced with honesty, humor, and heart.

From the very first sentence, the author’s totally unique, vivid writing style pulls you right in. Every line feels carefully crafted, and Wallack has a remarkable gift for writing from the perspective of each stage of the main character’s life. Her voice is both distinctive and authentic — you can feel the era in every scene.

This is her debut novel, and I truly can’t wait to read more from her. It’s a story about resilience, sibling love, and forgiveness — and my only regret is that it left me wanting more. (Fingers crossed for a sequel!)

I listened to the audiobook version on Audible, narrated by the author herself, and she’s an excellent reader — her voice adds even more depth to the story. Definitely check it out!

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

amazingggg

I enjoyed this read so much. All I’ve thought about since I started reading it was Sienna and Siddhi. Couldn’t wait to read more. I love the rawness and creativity in each chapter. It felt like Sienna was just telling you her story through the pages. Loved every chapter and never felt bored. 5 stars for me.

[Sandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I unexpectedly found these characters to be believable and so relatable. I loved their story, was all in all the way through the book. Great debut, fantastic writing!

[Hannah G · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had a hard time committing to this one, but eventually was able to get into it. Overall it was beautifully written and I loved Wallack's style, despite being horrified by most of the events. Probably wouldn't have picked it up on my own if I hadn't won it through a giveaway, but I'm so glad I did!

[Dori · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book grew on me as I was reading it. At first, I had a hard time getting into it. It was a departure from the books I usually read, and honestly it made me a little uncomfortable and sad, but as I kept reading I realized there were deep messages: the need for connection, comfort, and to be taken care of, but also the desire for independence I am proud to know this author - she’s my sorority sister. I am in awe of her talent and ability to tell a story that makes you feel all the feels.

[Maggie Jackson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thought provoking Read

This book is a poignant and beautifully crafted story that is both heartbreaking and heartwarming. It follows the lives of children who find themselves thrust into circumstances they never chose, navigating a world full of hardship and challenges. Despite the adversity, their journey is one of resilience and growth as they come of age, learning powerful lessons about themselves and each other. The bond they share is a beacon of hope, and their unwavering commitment to sticking together is as inspiring as it is emotional. A truly moving read that lingers long after the final page.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5. I really loved this one! I was invested in Sienna and Siddy's story and welfare throughout the whole novel. Worked very well as an audio!

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Naked Girl by Janna Brooke Wallack was a treat for me this month. A heartfelt, character driven, literary breath of fresh air. I’ve never rooted for two characters more than siblings Sienna and Siddhartha Jones, following them around 1980s Miami Beach. If you’re looking for a book that will pull you through the full spectrum of emotions, this is it. I can’t wait to read more from this author!

Scenes that stick with me are the boat scene with Jackson when the kids find a tent on shore to sleep in with their aunt; the barn with Sienna and the cowboy (shocking); Siddhi wearing the Santa beard 😞; Siddhi and Fox walking Edward, and then later in the video store. Trust me when I tell you that these scenes might sound benign, but they are some of the darkest moments in the book. They left me reeling, contemplating the details long after.

[Erin Wyman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Attention gen-X with daddy issues! I am concerned that the title may put some people off from reading this book. Don’t let that happen to you. A reference, or two, to the title come quickly in the story, and it is not perverse.
- it’s about sister and brother being raised by a widower in a very unconventional way- 1980’s Miami- and all that the place and time convey.

Some reviews say it’s humorous but I found it could be heartbreaking 💔.

Full of culture references and Yiddish. I can totally visualize the scenes ( even when I don’t want to 😳). The author circles back to items and events, reinforcing there was an intent in mentioning them the first time.

Overall I’m impressed especially with the subject matter- the author is not hiding from the strangeness of this situation and is willing to expose her underbelly.

A reminder in starting this book, read in from the perspective of the narrator, not the fully grown adult who has worked out all the proper ways to live a full life. When viewed from the frame of the narrator- what pre teen/teen really has a full picture of what’s going on?!

[Susan Kalt · Rating 4 out of 5]

GIVEAWAY. What a weird read! Sienna and Siddtharta lost their mother to an overdose when they were very young so their father Jackson is their only parent left. They make it only by the seat of their pants. They manage to raise themselves through all the ups and downs with their father who basically neglects them. He won’t let them go to school so it falls on Sienna to try and teach the both of them. They grew up in the 80s, they lived through a cult and free love in Xanadu, their mansion they live in. Jackson dealt in weed and cocaine. They meant a slew of people through this time some that were not good. By the time that they meet their teens everything falls apart. Through everything they lived through they manage to go out in the world and make a difference.

[Jacqueline Dooley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky to get an early copy of "Naked Girl" by Janna Brooke Wallack and, from the first page, I was drawn into the unconventional world of Sienna and Siddhartha. We're introduced to these siblings when they're very little and follow them as they grow up. The book takes place in 1980s Miami Beach, with Sienna and Siddhartha under the care of their charismatic and self-involved father, Jackson Jones.

Wallack's prose is luminous. She writes with a unique poetic style that immediately transported me into the unsupervised, chaotic environment of Jackson household which includes a constant parade of people who flock to Jackson for his charisma, sex appeal, and copious drugs. The author's ability to weave together multiple narratives, creating a vivid picture of Sienna's life is masterful. I found myself deeply connected to Sienna, loving what she loves and wanting what she wants.

Wallack weaves the themes of grief, hope, humor, and despair throughout the novel, creating a complex and multi-layered narrative that kept me engrossed from start to finish. One of the novel's greatest strengths is its character development. Sienna and Siddhartha are beautifully crafted. Their resilience and determination shine through as they navigate what can only be described as precarious - and sometimes life threatening - situations, deal with hunger and poverty, and ultimately come to the realization that their father isn't who they thought he was. The supporting cast of characters of Jackson's followers and worshippers - part of his false utopia - add depth and meaning to the story.

"Naked Girl" is an epic adventure cloaked in the intimate story of a flawed family. Wallack's ability to balance the grand scale of the narrative with the personal struggles of her characters is impressive. It is a remarkable debut that kept me engaged and invested in Sienna and Siddhartha's journey from beginning to end. This is s a must-read for anyone who appreciates beautifully crafted prose, emotionally resonant characters, and a story that lingers long after the final page is turned.

[Cheyenne Lacanlale · Rating 5 out of 5]

🪴🪴Book Review 🪴🪴
Naked Girlby @jannakowan

We were either born in the 80s or we were children in the 80s and we all know that was the time about real free, true love and the era of weed opening your mind and cocaine diving into the future . For those of you who are not born in the 80s you survived if you had the free spirited parents I connected with this book. I’m so many levels because my parents were free spirits and they constantly had people over and were constantly smoking weed totally fine no judgments here. I’m all about being happy. however there were times when I felt like I was just in the corner and I shouldn’t be there because my parents wanted to have fun rather than be a parent. This story goes into children, whose mother overdosed and their father buys a commune to live free free-spirited life, and sell drugs. he names, his two children, Sienna and Siddhartha, one boy and one girl. Sienna becomes the mom of the little brother to always take care of him. Their nicknames are munchies lol again I am not putting anybody down for smoking or having fun in their life, but this book shows what could possibly happen to two children who are innocent and don’t understand the world of drugs. takes them drug runs. They see him almost get murdered. They try to find with all of the women. The dad brings home and it shows what happened in the future someone who doesn’t have a great childhood. I am not putting anyone down and this doesn’t happen when you lack parenthood when you’re little it’s hard to understand how to grow up and this is what the story is about. Highly highly recommend this book to anyone. you will not be disappointed. This is not a normal book I would read, but as soon as I dove in, I couldn’t stop.

thank you, Jana for giving me access to this book and letting me spread the love ❤️ 🥰✌️

[Teresa Brock · Rating 5 out of 5]

The journey for the reader begins in 1979. Sienna and Siddith Jones lost their mother to an overdose. Their father, Jackson, lived what he thought was the right, just and correct way of life. He took the children (aka munchies) and bought a large house that was run down and dilapidated at a real estate auction. Sienna and Siddith were not allowed to go to a traditional school, since Jackson believed in the school of love. The children were raised in a communal house full of Jackson’s ‘babies’ where they were exposed to copious amounts of sex, and drugs and little to no parenting. This story follows the kids journey. They had to teach themselves everything about life and I mean everything.
From a mother’s point of view this was a raw and emotional read. I scoffed, laughed and yes – I cried. This journey takes the reader through a beautiful and touching gambit of emotions that leads to a lot of reflection on what you see around you and if you can or should change things. The differences in culture and religion play such a huge part in ALL of our stories. How we were raised and the people around us during that time changes who we end up being and we are all constantly growing. Please take time to read this and to understand how different and how alike we all are.

[D.H. Jonathan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I came across this book via a boosted Instagram post. When I saw the title, I was immediately intrigued. I'm a nudist (and currently the President of the Southwest Region of the American Association for Nude Recreation), and I've been a nude art model for 40 years. I also thought that "Naked Girl" could have been the title of my 2016 novel The "Volunteer". When I commented about that, the author replied and said that the Kindle edition pf Naked Girl was on sale for 99 cents. I couldn't resist that, so I bought it.

The setting was reminiscent of a book I read several years ago called Swamplandia by Karen Russell which had only been a three-star book for me despite its being a Pulitzer Prize for Fiction finalist (in a year in which no actual prize had been awarded). Naked Girl was about two kids who had to raise themselves while living in the shadow of their father's illegal activities after the death of their mother. Something about the story struck a chord with me, especially the last scene which had so many parallels with my own life. I don't want to give any spoilers, but I identified with everything Sienna feels during those final few pages.

[George Stenger · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a Goodreads free book.

It describes the very difficult life of two children, Sienna and Siddhartha, growing up without a mother, who died of a drug overdose. Their father is a drug dealer who is primarily focused on sex and drugs. For the first part of the story, he acts like a cult leader to his minions.

The story follows the children from early childhood until early adulthood. They live most of their lives without any supervision. It is extremely sad what they experience in their lives. It is an indictment of the system that lets these children fall through the cracks.

Their father has a back story that explains why he is the way he is, but it is no excuse for his actions.

Triggers - constant exposure to sex by the children, and severe child neglect.

[Claire Cohen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wallack's book brilliantly depicts the life of a dysfunctional family in the most fantastical setting. From the first page the world of Sienna and Siddhartha finding joy and excitement in what is clearly a situation of neglect, and chapter by chapter the reality of their situation and the damage it causes is slowly revealed. It was a gift to get to read this early, and I hope you give yourself this gift too.

[Elaine Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a weird coincidence that the book I picked to take with me to Miami is a book based in Miami. so that was cool walking by all the places in my book. That aside, I won this book from a drawing by the artist and I totally loved it. It’s a completely different genre from what I’m used to but I love the story, I love the characters, very well written and I’m looking forward to more from this author

[G.P. Gottlieb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two young, motherless children get occasional attention from one of the many people who flit in and out of the huge, dilapidated mansion from which their narcissistic father runs his drug empire in Naked Girl by Janna Brooke Wallack. It’s a shocking coming-of-age novel about surviving a dysfunctional family and learning that just one person who loves you is sometimes enough.
Honored to have interviewed the author! https://newbooksnetwork.com/janna-bro...

[gj indieBRAG · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are proud to announce that NAKED GIRL by Janna Brooke Wallack has been honored with the B.R.A.G. Medallion (Book Readers Appreciation Group). It now joins the very select award-winning, reader-recommended books at indieBRAG. This award is a testament to this book's quality and the impact it has had on readers.

[Debbie Ballard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderfully written and heart-wrenching. Sienna and Siddhartha Jones grew up with their father, Jackson, who was usually high and had his own cult full of mostly women, sex, and drugs while his children hoped to be fed, looked forward to when their Nana would visit, and wished to go to school. Kept hoping someone would save the children from their horrible upbringing.

[Kaydene Powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This author takes the time to grow her characters but once the story gets going, you won’t be able to put it down. I was blown away and before I even made it half way through the book. Nana was my favorite, she tells it like it is lol. If you’re looking for a good read, this is it!