My Rating: 4 hearts for the first 1/2 of the book; 2 hearts for the second 1/2
Thoughts on the Novel: Everything, Everything by Nicola Yoon was a book that I had very mixed feelings about. So, I decided that a pros and cons list would probably be the best way to review Everything, Everything.
Pros:
- I loved that Madeline maintains a positive attitude about growing up with severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID).
- I also appreciated that Madeline was an Afro-Asian protagonist. We definitely need more diverse characters in YA!
- The burgeoning friendship between Madeline and Olly was super cute, and put a smile on my face.
- I really enjoyed the additional elements in this book like the illustrations, Madeline’s Life is Short spoiler reviews, excerpts from Madeline’s diary, etc.
- Since Madeline has SCID, I thought we’d learn some information about this genetic disorder. Unfortunately, we don’t.
- I didn’t really buy the romance between Madeline and Olly because it transitioned so quickly from friendship to romance. It just made me feel like Madeline was trying to act like a normal teenager and experience as much as possible before it became impossible for her to do so.
- The plot twist at the end made me so mad! I would have rather had Madeline and Olly break up (because let’s be honest, that’s what would happen most likely in real life) than have the author do what she did – give them a happy ending by taking the easy way out and eliminating the problem entirely!
Comments About the Cover: I like the colourfulness of the cover.
In exchange for an honest review, this book was received from the publisher (Random House) for free via NetGalley.
Why give a character a disease and not explain the first thing about it? i find that very odd. I've heard great things about this book, but I'm sorry to hear that the second half is disappointing. I obviously haven't read the spoiler, but an infuriating ending... I think I'll pass.
ReplyDeleteI've seen EVERYTHING EVERYTHING pop up on a few blogs but haven't really taken the time to learn more about the plot or its characters. I agree that there should be more diversity in YA, but am bummed about the weak second half of this book.Great review, it's very helpful.Thank you!! :)
ReplyDeleteI want to read this book. I need it in my life. I am not super excited about the insta-love that people keep talking about. But the thought of living such an isolated life intrigues me. I shall go into this one with an open mind.
ReplyDeleteIt seems like a lot of people were put off by the twist at the end and the fact that it sort of took the easy way out of whatever the problem is, and I think that would be frustrating for me as well. Still, I'm glad the first half worked so well for you Z!
ReplyDeleteAw, it's such a shame that the relationship moved forward so quickly, that's a huge peeve of mine. I also like the concept behind this one (and diversity YES) but if it really isn't explained? Boo. Anyways, great review!
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