In Everything, Everything (one of our September picks) by Nicola Yoon, the reader is introduced to Madeline, a girl who is allergic to everything. Madeline lives with her mom in a completely sanitized house with an air filtration system. She has never been to school. She has never gone to visit a friend. She has never been outside.
In the beginning of the book, a new family moves in next door and Madeline’s curiosity about their lives is insatiable. Of course, there is a cute boy (Olly) among the family and Madeline develops what starts out as an innocent crush on a boy who lives in a world she has no access to. However, with the help of her nurse and a few white lies to her mother, Madeline and Olly meet and develop a relationship.
When they met, Madeline was nervous about her condition. Exposure to someone from the outside could be fatal. As the story progressed, the relationship intensified (too quickly, in my opinion) and the stakes were raised. Was Olly worth the risk?
This was a conflict I could get behind. Two characters who are attracted to each other. A girl who is forbidden from socializing with outsiders. A boy who cannot stay away. These are all elements that generally make up an interesting piece of YA fiction.
However, there was a completely unexpected plot twist that, in my opinion, cheapened the story. I don’t want to spoil it, as it was an interesting read, but I wish that the plot and the characters were better developed in order to support such a devastating plot twist.
As I read Everything, Everything, I found it to be a sappy story about two young lovers who could not be together because of seemingly immovable obstacles. Although I would have enjoyed stronger character development, Yoon’s writing was enjoyable and her illustrations quirky. I look forward to her next piece.
PS – Just a heads up, if you haven’t read Lord of the Flies or Flowers for Algernon, Madeline gives some spoilers throughout the book.
Did you get a chance to read it? What is your reaction? Leave a comment below with your thoughts and be sure to tag your copy of the book on instagram with #TWTBookshelf.
Live, Love, Learn,
Candice & The Write Teacher(s)