Holding Up the Universe
From the author of the New York Times bestseller All the Bright Places comes a heart-wrenching story about what it means to see someone—and love someone—for who they truly are.
Everyone thinks they know Libby Strout, the girl once dubbed “America’s Fattest Teen.” But no one’s taken the time to look past her weight to get to know who she really is. Following her mom’s death, she’s been picking up the pieces in the privacy of her home, dealing with her heartbroken father and her own grief. Now, Libby’s ready: for high school, for new friends, for love, and for EVERY POSSIBILITY LIFE HAS TO OFFER. In that moment, I know the part I want to play here at MVB High. I want to be the girl who can do anything.
Everyone thinks they know Jack Masselin, too. Yes, he’s got swagger, but he’s also mastered the impossible art of giving people what they want, of fitting in. What no one knows is that Jack has a newly acquired secret: he can’t recognize faces. Even his own brothers are strangers to him. He’s the guy who can re-engineer and rebuild anything in new and bad-ass ways, but he can’t understand what’s going on with the inner workings of his brain. So he tells himself to play it cool: Be charming. Be hilarious. Don’t get too close to anyone.
Until he meets Libby. When the two get tangled up in a cruel high school game—which lands them in group counseling and community service—Libby and Jack are both pissed, and then surprised. Because the more time they spend together, the less alone they feel. . . . Because sometimes when you meet someone, it changes the world, theirs and yours.
Jennifer Niven delivers another poignant, exhilarating love story about finding that person who sees you for who you are—and seeing them right back.
"Niven is adept at creating characters. . . . [Libby's] courage and body-positivity make for a joyful reading experience." --The New York Times
“Holding Up the Universe . . . taps into the universal need to be understood. To be wanted. And that’s what makes it such a remarkable read.” —TeenVogue.com, “Why New Book Holding Up the Universe Is the Next The Fault in Our Stars”
"Want a love story that will give you all the feels? . . . You'll seriously melt!" —Seventeen Magazine
In the captivating novel "Holding Up the Universe" by Jennifer Niven, we are introduced to two extraordinary individuals: Libby Strout and Jack Masselin. Libby, a spirited and kindhearted young woman, carries an invisible burden – she weighs 653 pounds. Jack, a charming and misunderstood artist, bears the scars of a traumatic past that has left him withdrawn and isolated. Their paths collide when Libby decides to leave her house for the first time in eight years to attend school, and Jack becomes her unexpected protector and confidant.
Libby's journey is one of self-discovery and acceptance. She learns to navigate the complexities of a world that often judges her based on her appearance. With Jack by her side, she confronts her fears and insecurities, finding strength and resilience within herself. As their relationship deepens, Libby and Jack discover that true beauty lies beneath the surface, and that love can transcend all boundaries.
"Holding Up the Universe" is a poignant and inspiring story that explores themes of identity, friendship, and the transformative power of love. Niven's writing is both honest and compassionate, delving into the complexities of human relationships and the challenges of living in a world that is often quick to judge. Through Libby and Jack's journey, readers are reminded of the importance of acceptance, empathy, and the strength found in embracing our differences.
This powerful novel is a must-read for anyone seeking an unforgettable and thought-provoking story. Niven's skillful storytelling and relatable characters will leave readers deeply moved and inspired long after they finish the last page.
Rating:
