Theodore Finch wants to take his own life. Violet Markey is devastated by her sisters death. They meet on the ledge of the school bell tower, and so their story begins. It's only together they can be themselves... But, as Violet's world grows, Finch's begins to shrink. How far will Violet go to save the boy she has come to love?
I bought this book on a whim the other day because the 'buy one get one half price' offer at Waterstones had been drawing me in, and it's one of the best decisions I've made in ages. All the bright places is one of those books that builds you up and breaks you down over and over again- the style is refreshing, the plot is enticing and the characters are breathtakingly realistic.
This is Jennifer Niven's first novel for Young Adults- and I think you can tell. The themes and issues she addresses are very mature, but she still manages to capture the heartbreak of being seventeen so accurately. I'd probably recommend All the bright places to a reading audience of 14+; there is mild swearing throughout, mentions of sex, and the themes addressed might be considered too mature for a younger audience.
Trigger Warnings: there are mentions of suicide throughout (you probably guessed that much) and the odd mention of Bipolar Disorder.
I can't stop telling people to go out and buy this book. God, please, go buy it. You won't regret it.
Beth 18, Creative Writing student in Bath, UK. Enjoys Earl Grey tea and dancing in the rain.
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