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A review by kaceyjaceyxd
Holding Up the Universe by Jennifer Niven
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
In this dual-POV, swapping between the depths of Libby’s and Jack’s minds, the reader is immersed in the struggles of a teen trying to find out the “why” behind who they are, and learning to accept themselves and others. Jack faces a rare neurological disorder with no cure in sight, and Libby faces an eating disorder she developed after a great loss. They each have their coping mechanisms, but they learn that sometimes coping mechanisms aren’t everything - you need community and to trust yourself. As they each work through their own struggles, relationships, and character flaws, they begin to see each other for who they truly are. A great book for readers looking for a realistic happy ending. The ending brings closure to the story while still leaving ends open enough for the reader to imagine a future, or for Niven to give us a sequel.
Graphic: Body shaming, Bullying, Cancer, Chronic illness, Confinement, Eating disorder, Fatphobia, Mental illness, Panic attacks/disorders, Violence, Grief, and Death of parent