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All the Bright Places

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'All the Bright Places' by Jennifer Niven is a young adult novel that follows the story of Finch and Violet, two teenagers who meet on the ledge of a bell tower at school. Their unlikely friendship leads them on a journey to discover the natural wonders of Indiana, but also helps them uncover deeper truths about themselves and each other. The book delves into themes of mental illness, grief, and the complexities of teenage emotions, portraying a poignant and heart-wrenching tale of love, loss, and self-discovery. Niven's writing style intricately weaves together the characters' struggles and emotions, creating a narrative that is both moving and thought-provoking.

Finch and Violet's relationship evolves from a chance meeting on the bell tower to a profound connection that helps them navigate their personal challenges and find reasons to live. The book explores the depths of their characters, portraying their vulnerabilities, fears, and moments of hope with raw honesty. Niven's storytelling captures the essence of teenage emotions and the complexities of mental health issues, offering a compelling narrative that resonates with readers and leaves a lasting impact.

Characters:

The characters are richly developed; Finch and Violet are complex, facing personal battles while seeking connection and healing.

Writing/Prose:

Jennifer Niven's writing style is characterized by emotional depth, sharp dialogue, and a dual perspective that enhances the storytelling.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot revolves around two high school students, Finch and Violet, as they navigate their struggles with mental illness, forming a deep bond while facing daunting challenges.

Setting:

The setting of Indiana serves as a backdrop that underscores the characters' journeys, with meaningful places linked to their exploration.

Pacing:

The pacing varies, with a slower start that builds character development, leading to a rapid emotional intensity toward the conclusion.
This is something I ask myself in the morning when I wake up. In third period when I’m trying to keep my eyes open while Mr. Schroeder drones on and on. At the supper table as I’m passing the green be...

Notes:

The story follows two main characters, Theodore Finch and Violet Markey, who meet on a school bell tower, both contemplating suicide.
Finch struggles with undiagnosed bipolar disorder, while Violet is dealing with survivor's guilt after losing her sister in a car accident.
The book discusses themes of mental illness, depression, and suicide, aiming to shed light on these often-taboo subjects.
Finch's character is portrayed as humorous and quirky, while Violet reflects on her profound grief and trauma.
Their relationship develops as they embark on a school project to explore the natural wonders of Indiana, allowing them to bond and support one another.
The narrative alternates between Finch's and Violet's perspectives, offering insight into both characters' internal struggles.
The novel has drawn comparisons to 'The Fault in Our Stars', but critics argue it offers a different take on love and loss.
The book depicts the lack of support from adults in the characters' lives, highlighting a common issue for teens dealing with mental health crises.
Jennifer Niven's writing incorporates poetic quotes from Virginia Woolf, adding depth to the narrative and connecting the characters' experiences to literary themes.
The book has been adapted into a film, further expanding its audience and impact.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book includes high content warnings for discussions around mental illness, suicide, and the impact of grief.

Has Romance?

The romance between Finch and Violet is a central theme in the story, depicting their emotional connection amid their individual struggles.

From The Publisher:

This New York Times bestselling love story about two teens who find each other while standing on the edge is now a Netflix film starring Elle Fanning and Justice Smith!

Theodore Finch is fascinated by death, and he constantly thinks of ways he might die. But each time, something good, no matter how small, stops him.

Violet Markey lives for the future, counting the days until graduation, when she can escape her Indiana town and her aching grief in the wake of her sister's recent death.

When Finch and Violet meet on the ledge of the bell tower at school, it's unclear who saves whom. And when they pair up on a project to discover the "natural wonders" of their state, both Finch and Violet make more important discoveries: It's only with Violet that Finch can be himself-a weird, funny, live-out-loud guy who's not such a freak after all. And it's only with Finch that Violet can forget to count away the days and start living them. But as Violet's world grows, Finch's begins to shrink.

"A do-not-miss for fans of Eleanor & Park and The Fault in Our Stars, and basically anyone who can breathe." -Justine Magazine

"At the heart-a big one-of All the Bright Places lies a charming love story about this unlikely and endearing pair of broken teenagers." -The New York Times Book Review

"A heart-rending, stylish love story." -The Wall Street Journal

"A complex love story that will bring all the feels." -Seventeen Magazine

"Impressively layered, lived-in, and real." -Buzzfeed

Ratings (89)

Incredible (21)
Loved It (18)
Liked It (27)
It Was OK (10)
Did Not Like (12)
Hated It (1)

Reader Stats (228):

Read It (91)
Currently Reading (2)
Want To Read (84)
Did Not Finish (8)
Not Interested (43)

1 comment(s)

It Was OK
1 week

I did enjoyed it, but not as much as I thought I would. Wasn't as invested or moved by the characters and didn't get any strong emotions by this read

 

About the Author:

Jennifer Niven is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of All the Bright Places, Holding Up the Universe, Breathless, and, with David Levithan, Take Me With You When You Go as well as the popular Velva Jean series and non-fiction for…

 
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