The Beginning of EverythingAuthor: Robyn Schneider
Publisher: Katherine Tegen, 335 pages
Publication Date: August 27, 2013
From Goodreads:
Golden boy Ezra Faulkner believes everyone has a tragedy waiting for them—a single encounter after which everything that really matters will happen. His particular tragedy waited until he was primed to lose it all: in one spectacular night, a reckless driver shatters Ezra’s knee, his athletic career, and his social life.
No longer a front-runner for Homecoming King, Ezra finds himself at the table of misfits, where he encounters new girl Cassidy Thorpe. Cassidy is unlike anyone Ezra’s ever met, achingly effortless, fiercely intelligent, and determined to bring Ezra along on her endless adventures.
But as Ezra dives into his new studies, new friendships, and new love, he learns that some people, like books, are easy to misread. And now he must consider: if one’s singular tragedy has already hit and everything after it has mattered quite a bit, what happens when more misfortune strikes?
Review:
I both loved and hated this book. Here's what I loved: Ezra's character and the changes he undergoes throughout the novel. I loved that he had so much depth and that he was really just a good guy. He has to figure out who he is and who he wants to be and he realizes that he doesn't want to be just like everyone else and that he may be interested in things he never even thought about. I loved the scene where he and Cassidy go and sit in on a college class and they mistakenly walk into an organic chemistry and he ends up absolutely loving it. And his voice: fresh, funny, realistic, witty...there were definitely some laugh out loud moments for me. To be honest, I don't usually enjoy a book written from a guy's POV as much but this one...so good. I really connected with his character.
I also loved Toby. What an incredible friend! When you find out his story in the first chapter, it will break your heart (so traumatizing and horrific) and then when he reappears and is such a fun and smart guy. What he does for Ezra on that first day...everyone needs a true friend like that. And the scene at the end of the book with him...perfect.
What I hated: Ok, there was the way a certain character treated another character and how those events unfolded that I absolutely hated. I can't be more specific without spoiling things, but if you've read the book or you don't mind reading spoilers, read my Spoiler Discussion here.
In sum, read the book. Brilliant...not to be missed.
Posted by: Pam
Ok, I have to read this book not only because it's been sitting in my book stacks for months and your recommendation, but also so I can read your spoiler discussion!
ReplyDeleteYes, definitely read it! I had to vent a bit so that's what the spoiler discussion is all about so I would love to get your thoughts about it! ~Pam
DeleteI started this book months ago but never finished it. For no good reason other than something else caught my eye and I put it aside. I've been meaning to pick it back up. I really need to get on that. I'm glad you enjoyed this one--for the most part. Great review!
ReplyDeleteIt was definitely well written and there were great characters. If you end up reading it, come back and let me know what you think in the spoiler discussion! ~Pam
DeleteI need to read this! I've heard great things. I am worried about this character treating another character poorly thing... I can handle a lot, but if it's really really bad I will get pretty annoyed.
ReplyDeleteI'll be interested to see what you think about it. Hopefully you'll read it soon! ~Pam
DeleteDun.Dun. Dun. I have not read this book yet. I will read it since you still recommend it and I have heard good things but I must admit I am a little nervous now. More curious than nervous though so all good!
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed it, even with what I hated. To evoke such strong emotions is actually quite an accomplishment, I think. When you read it, let me know your thoughts! ~Pam
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