Everything, Everything

by Nicola Yoon

[meowstina]

I received an advance reader’s copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

This is a very cute story, but it also addresses some very deep and emotional issues. We are introduced to the world as Madeline, the main character, sees it. She has never left her house and is content in her daily routines until a neighbour by the name of Olly appears in her life, at first from afar until he gets closer and closer. Madeline must grapple with the life she has and the life she longs for, and if the price is worth combining the two.

I love the format of the book. It’s written in small chapters, notes, and doodles that really add depth and character to the story. Speaking of characters, there are some great and not-so-great ones. Carla and Olly are amazing, and I love how they ground Madeline yet set her free at the same time. Madeline’s mother gets surprisingly controlling, which is something that made me very mad for her daughter. While the story presents Olly as a catalyst for some major changes in Madeline’s thinking, it does often come off as a little obsess-y, but maybe that’s just me. Though the book is not very long and reads quite fast, the story takes place over many months. This made the romance feel too fast and instant, though I don’t know if that’s actually the case. To be fair, any book with an intense romance usually makes me cringe a bit.

The story starts very chipper and positive, but later turns darker. I think it’s a good balance of everything, especially as Madeline evolves. I quite like this book, even if there are a few things that I’m not crazy about. It’s a story that will keep you reading and propel you into the main character’s world.