For the first time in a long time, I want more than I have.
Olly was a handsome, athletic boy who wore all black, and took an interest in Madeline. I loved Olly from the start. This boy, who had the weight of the world on his shoulders. His priority was protecting his mom and sister, and giving in to his father's demands, in an attempt to keep the peace. He was funny and sweet and was able to see past Madeline's illness. He is slightly damaged, but still living and hoping and dreaming. The IMs and emails between Olly and Madeline were fantastic. I loved the back and forth, give and take. There is not doubt, that the love story took root in those IMs.
I was happy before I met him. But I’m alive now, and those are not the same thing.
I have to speak about Nicola Yoon and her writing. I got to attend several panels and signings of Nicola Yoon's, and she was just so lovely. I was so struck by her graciousness and gratitude. She was completely awed by the long line of people waiting to meet her at BEA. Those traits are definitely apparent in writing, and the writing is so beautiful. I could seriously quote this book forever. She crafted her characters with such warmth and honesty, but also allowed them to be angsty when it was appropriate. Her writing evoked many an emotional response for me. I teared up quite a few times, ok, I actually cried too, but I also laughed, and smiled. I listened to the audiobook, but I actually had an ARC from last year on my shelf. I recommend the book to my more visual people, as Yoon included some great illustrations, as well as layouts, which contribute to the impact of the words.
Spoiler alert: Love is worth everything. Everything.
My heart broke in half for Madeline's mom. She lost her husband and son in a car accident, and was left with a sickly infant. Her family was her whole world, and she lost them. As a doctor, she decided Madeline's care would be her own responsibility, thus, she would protect her.
For her it was the Big Bang in reverse—everything that became a nothing.
This is a beautiful story of so many things: love, friendship, family, forgiveness, gratitude. I was left warm and fuzzy and happy.
You're not living if you're not regretting.