Who Would Like This Book:
If you love stories that tug at your heartstrings, this book will grab you from the first page. Jojo Moyes crafts a story that's both deeply emotional and unexpectedly funny, with characters that feel real and relatable - especially Lou, our quirky, endlessly likable heroine. The novel goes beyond a typical romance by weaving in big, thought-provoking questions about love, choice, and what makes life worth living. You'll root for Lou and Will, get swept up in their banter, and find yourself wanting to call your best friend just to talk about all the feels. Anyone who enjoys character-driven stories with a dash of romance and is up for a good cry will devour this.
Who May Not Like This Book:
If you prefer your novels to have happily-ever-afters with lots of lightness, this might not be for you - it's a definite tearjerker, and the themes can get heavy at times. Some readers felt that the book was emotionally manipulative or took issue with the way it portrays disability and assisted suicide, as it doesn't give much voice to people living fulfilling lives with disabilities. If you don’t like books that challenge you on tough ethical topics or want to avoid a story that digs deep into grief, loss, and tough choices, you might want to reach for something a bit sunnier.
About:
"Me Before You" by Jojo Moyes is a heartfelt and emotional story that follows the unexpected love story between Louisa Clark, a quirky and compassionate caregiver, and Will Traynor, a sarcastic quadriplegic man. The book explores complex emotions, class and social issues, and the theme of living life to the fullest. With a slow-paced beginning that picks up momentum, the novel keeps readers emotionally invested with its witty writing, realistic characters, and unpredictable plot twists.
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Notes:
Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings include discussions of assisted suicide, disability, and themes of depression.
Has Romance?
The romance in the book is a central element, exploring emotional and physical connections.
From The Publisher:
USA Today's top 100 books to read while stuck at home social distancing
From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Giver of Stars, discover the love story that captured over 20 million hearts in Me Before You, After You, and Still Me.
They had nothing in common until love gave them everything to lose . . .
Louisa Clark is an ordinary girl living an exceedingly ordinary life-steady boyfriend, close family-who has barely been farther afield than their tiny village. She takes a badly needed job working for ex-Master of the Universe Will Traynor, who is wheelchair bound after an accident. Will has always lived a huge life-big deals, extreme sports, worldwide travel-and now he's pretty sure he cannot live the way he is.
Will is acerbic, moody, bossy-but Lou refuses to treat him with kid gloves, and soon his happiness means more to her than she expected. When she learns that Will has shocking plans of his own, she sets out to show him that life is still worth living.
A Love Story for this generation and perfect for fans of John Green's The Fault in Our Stars, Me Before You brings to life two people who couldn't have less in common-a heartbreakingly romantic novel that asks, What do you do when making the person you love happy also means breaking your own heart?
Ratings (210)
Incredible (55) | |
Loved It (86) | |
Liked It (34) | |
It Was OK (21) | |
Did Not Like (8) | |
Hated It (6) |
Reader Stats (355):
Read It (234) | |
Currently Reading (1) | |
Want To Read (71) | |
Not Interested (49) |
14 comment(s)
I did not sign a permission slip for this feels trip
This book hit me like a truck and.. left me there.
4.5 stars
4.5 stars
As a disabled person I felt offended by the way it was handled in this book. A book like this needs beta readers for sensitivity purposes, and this sends a really negative message.
5 stars. a breathtakingly heartfelt, and gut-wrenching love story
I often find that books with dying characters all end up in the same manner. This one is no different.
I enjoyed this book for what it was and did see it coming but still nice book and interesting ending.
I thought it was very well written and a quick read, but that is about the extent of what I enjoyed. The story was very predictable, and I couldn't stand most of the characters. Sorry, this book just didn't do it for me.
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes is a poignant and thought-provoking novel that resonates deeply with readers due to its exploration of love, choice, and the complexities of human emotion. The story centers on Louisa Clark, an optimistic and quirky young woman, and Will Traynor, a once-adventurous man who becomes paralyzed after an accident. Their unlikely relationship unfolds in a way that is both heartwarming and heartbreaking, tackling profound themes of life, dignity, and personal freedom.
One of the book's greatest strengths is its richly developed characters. Louisa, with her colorful fashion sense and zest for life, is relatable and endearing. Her journey of self-discovery, prompted by her role as Will’s caregiver, allows readers to see her growth as she grapples with the limitations of her small-town life and the broader possibilities that await her. Will, in contrast, is intelligent, witty, and deeply frustrated with his physical limitations. His struggle with his new reality as a quadriplegic is portrayed with authenticity and sensitivity, giving voice to the emotional and psychological challenges faced by those with disabilities.
The dynamic between Louisa and Will is what truly makes Me Before You a compelling read. Their relationship challenges both of them: Louisa learns to push past her comfort zones, while Will begins to see life through her eyes. The novel is filled with moments of humor, tenderness, and raw honesty, making their connection feel genuine. Their interactions highlight the importance of empathy, understanding, and the transformative power of human connection.
The story also delves into difficult ethical questions regarding quality of life and the right to make personal choices, even when those choices are painful or controversial. Will’s decision about his future is handled with care, and Moyes does not offer easy answers. This moral complexity invites readers to reflect on their own beliefs about autonomy, love, and sacrifice.
Me Before You is ultimately a story about the impact we have on one another and the ways we can inspire change, even when faced with heartbreaking realities. It is a reminder that love is not always about saving someone, but sometimes about giving them the freedom to make their own choices. With its emotional depth, memorable characters, and thought-provoking themes, Me Before You is a book that captivates, challenges, and moves readers, making it a truly worthwhile read.
What can you read after
Me Before You?
About the Author:
Jojo Moyes is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Giver of Stars, Still Me, Paris for One and Other Stories, After You, One Plus One, The Girl You Left Behind, Me Before You, The Last Letter from…
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