Friday, March 4, 2011

The Way He Lived

The Way He Lived by Emily Wing Smith
Rating: 4/5 stars


















Overview: When sixteen-year-old Joel Espen dies of thirst on a Boy Scout hiking trip, it shakes the small town of Haven, Utah to its socially conformist foundation. And the six teens who were closest to Joel start to view their community--and themselves--in a new light.
With his uncanny sensitivity and boundless heart, Joel made people love him. Now that he's gone, the ones he left behind are coping with their immense loss. His older, "crazy" sister pours her grief into a blog, while his younger sister runs away to New York. One friend is consumed by anger and revenge, while another discovers who she really is. Two learn to be true to their hearts--and all question who they are and what they've become.
Told from six heartbreaking perspectives on love, loss, and faith, this is the poignant story of how the life--and death--of one teen can have a profound effect on the lives of many.


My Review: I got this book for my birthday from one of my dear friends Kate Coursey ( an amazing writer, you should check out her blog called Weaving Colors) who kindly got the book signed by the author for me! When I read the back cover of this book it seemed like a perfectly depressing and morally right book. Which ultimately it was, and I love those kinds of books, so it worked out perfectly for me. 
First off, I loved all the characters, Joel was probably my favorite, and some people may say that  we never really got to hear Joel's story like the six other character's. But we did hear his story! In every single chapter. The book was wonderfully written, and very organized, Smith developed her character's very well, and gave them a very appropriate story line. Second, I would definitely recommend this book to everyone! It is sad, but also heart warming at the same time. Third, the only flaw I had with this book, (why I gave it a 4) was because of the ending. Don't get me wrong the ending was good! But I thought that Smith could have added a twist that no one saw coming, although I wont tell you what it is because I don't want to ruin it, but if you think you know what it is, comment and tell me what you think. It's just my personal opinion though. But overall the book was wonderful, everyone go get it!

2 comments:

  1. Dont know whats wrong with the font.

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  2. Oh! Oh! I gave you that book!!!

    I'm glad you liked it...the author, Emily, is pretty much the nicest person ever. You would love her.

    ReplyDelete