I had heard quite a few things about this book and decided I really wanted to read it and I am so glad that I did. I checked Hold Still by Nina LaCour out of the library and read it in two days. It was incredible.Summary: This is the story of Caitlin, a high school student whose best friend Ingrid has just killed herself. The story is broken down by the four seasons, and chronicles Caitlin's first year without Ingrid. She wonders if she should have seen signs that Ingrid was suicidal, and has mostly secluded herself from others. She sits in her car most nights just thinking about what happened and seems unable to move on. Then she finds Ingrid's journal under her bed that she left behind for her. The letters, journal entries, and drawings that were in the journal are peppered throughout the book and reveal Ingrid's downfall to severe depression and eventual suicide. Caitlin's story is supported by an interesting cast of characters, including Dylan, a new transfer student who befriends Caitlin, and Taylor, who Caitlin may be falling in love with.
My Thoughts: Wow, I absolutely adored this book. It was incredible, realistic, honest and emotional. These kinds of books aren't always easy to digest, but it was so beautifully written that I devoured it extremely quickly. The story was dark yet hopeful and Caitlin was so realistic to me. Her reaction was painful but true, and her growth was inspiring. Oftentimes these tragedies are unimaginable to us, but I feel as though this was about as real as a story could get on the matter. This story will stay with me forever, I'm sure. It really touched my heart, as cheesy as that sounds. There are just not enough words to express my love for this book. It was simply amazing.
The Bottom Line: Incredible, heartbreaking, and highly recommended. I loved it.
Rating: 5/5
Currently Reading: Unlikely Angels by Michael O'Doran, received for review.
Great review! I've been wanting to read this for awhile, and it sounds deep and really, really enticing. Thank you! :)
ReplyDeleteI agree with your review- this book was so well done for both the people left behind and the person who truly thinks the only way out is suicide.
ReplyDeleteGreat review, I have seen the cover around but never seen a review or knew what is about. It seems there is a lot of dark similar books out right now. This I would enjoy but wondering if I will get tired of similar content.
ReplyDeleteI adored this book ,and am glad you enjoyed it as well. Amazing review!!
ReplyDeleteLovely review. I've been thinking about reading this book. I love beautiful writing so I'll definitely have to give this one a try :)
ReplyDeletewow, the story seems interesting..i love reading your review..short and sweet.. =p
ReplyDeleteI have to say this isn't my usual read. A bit too emotionally confronting but you've actually made me think I'd quite like to read it.
ReplyDeleteWow! The topic of teen suicide is especially painful to me, but after reading your review I might be open to reading this novel.
ReplyDeleteThis is a must-read for me. I'd love an emotional read these days. This feels like the right one :) I can't wait to get it!
ReplyDeleteYour excellent review has inspired me to put it on my list. It sounds fantastic!
ReplyDeleteI've read so many glowing reviews for this book. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
ReplyDeleteThis does sound like it packs quite an emotional punch. I am glad you liked it so much. I'll have to look for it.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds very moving. I need to read some non-paranormal YA, so maybe this one. Though I'll have to be prepared for the sad stuff. Great review
ReplyDeleteTough subject; great review.
ReplyDeleteEvery since I have seen it's blurb I have meant to read it. Great review. You just convinced me to get it :)
ReplyDeleteI read many positive reviews for this book. It got me curious ever since. Now I want to read it! :)
ReplyDeleteThanks for the great review.
I usually don't read contemporary but this sounds worthwhile. Great review!
ReplyDeleteSounds like a heavy book about some important issues ... and that it was well done is wonderful. Great review.
ReplyDeleteI thought specifically of you when I posted today's reviewer's competition post. Stop by and read it--might be something worth entering!
ReplyDeleteAs always, a true and honest review.
Michele
SouthernCityMysteries
Great, honest review!
ReplyDeleteGreat review, I like dark and emotional books too, books that will make me think.
ReplyDeleteBTW, my blog is giving away Nora Roberts Book, please feel free to participate.
Here from the saturday network!
ReplyDeleteNice to find such a great blog. I enjoyed your review, I'm been eyeing this one since my birthday, which coincidentally is the date this came out! :)
It's good to know that Hold Still has an undercurrent of hope. This kind of book is often so hit and miss, and the author's skill in maturing the character is essential. I'm glad Ms. LaCour handled it well. Great review!
ReplyDeleteThanks for participating in The Saturday Network yet again! :D
ReplyDeleteAnd I remember reading this one a while back and thinking the same thing, that it was very emotionally-touching and it felt so real. Great review!
Great review! I loved this book too!
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