Book Review: Kianola

Reviewed by Lauren Hayataka

A messy, heartfelt exploration of adolescence, identity, and the allure of online worlds

Middle school: a place that Nole, the awkward protagonist of Nathan Roth’s Kianola, describes as “harsher than any tundra and crueler than any barrens.” 

For Nole, real life is an endless string of humiliations—cruel pranks, unrequited crushes, and a strained friendship with Finn, who mocks Nole’s weight and personality more than he offers support. It’s no wonder that Nole retreats to the online fantasy world of Enix, where he reinvents himself as Null, a druid capable of being everything he’s not—strong, essential, and brave.

In Enix, Nole forms meaningful bonds with other players, including Dapple and Kia (short for Kianola). The novel shines because of their friendship, forged through shared quests and late-night grinding sessions. 

Nathan Roth authentically captures the natural progression of online friendships, highlighting these connections’ unique strengths and weaknesses. Kia, in particular, inspires Nole to try new things in real life like football (a hilariously disastrous attempt!) and junior lifeguards, where he begins to find his stride.

Roth’s humor adds levity to the story, with sharp observations and amusing quips, like Nole’s comparison of middle school to a savage wilderness. The gaming sequences are vivid and immersive, filled with nods to gaming culture, from battling the fictional boss Old Nessie (a familiar, massive green sea creature) to navigating quirky questlines. Some of the humor lands, but not all of it. Dated internet jokes about catfishing and “no girls on the internet” do appear.

The novel’s dialogue swings from age-appropriate and engaging to overly mature or cliché for middle schoolers. Some of the more romantic moments dip into this. The novel captures the camaraderie and humor of online friendships, but it also comes with some adult jokes, frequent swearing, and an occasional disconnect from its themes of self-discovery and connection.

Kianola offers moments of genuine heart. Roth’s portrayal of gaming culture and the escape it provides feels engaging and relatable, while Nole’s friendships with Dapple and Kia add warmth and depth. Kia’s encouragement pushes Nole toward growth, both in-game and in real life, showing how meaningful online connections can be at every age. 

Kianola is an enjoyable novel that explores the highs and lows of adolescence and the escape offered by online worlds—a story young gamers will definitely connect with. Its earnest moments of friendship and identity are where it excels most.

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