What is the Book "Things We Never Got Over" About?
Introduction
"Things We Never Got Over" is a novel written by Jenny Han, published in 2015. The book has gained a significant following worldwide, particularly among young adult readers. In this article, we will delve into the world of "Things We Never Got Over" and explore its themes, characters, and plot.
Plot Summary
The story revolves around Eleanor "Ellie" Thompson, a 17-year-old girl who is struggling to cope with the loss of her mother. Ellie’s life is turned upside down when her mother passes away, leaving her feeling lost and alone. As she navigates her grief, Ellie meets Julian Styles, a charming and charismatic classmate who becomes her confidant and love interest.
Themes
"Things We Never Got Over" explores several themes that are relevant to young adult readers. Some of the key themes include:
- Grief and Loss: The book tackles the difficult topic of grief and loss, providing a realistic and relatable portrayal of the emotional journey that follows a parent’s passing.
- Friendship and Loyalty: The novel highlights the importance of strong friendships and the bonds that can form between people.
- Identity and Self-Discovery: Ellie’s journey is also one of self-discovery, as she navigates her relationships, interests, and values to find her place in the world.
- Love and Relationships: The book explores the complexities of love and relationships, including the challenges of navigating romantic relationships and the importance of communication.
Characters
The characters in "Things We Never Got Over" are well-developed and relatable. Some of the key characters include:
- Eleanor "Ellie" Thompson: The protagonist of the story, Ellie is a complex and multi-dimensional character who is struggling to cope with her grief.
- Julian Styles: A charming and charismatic classmate, Julian becomes Ellie’s confidant and love interest.
- Mia Thompson: Ellie’s mother, who is a loving and supportive presence in her life.
- Mr. Thompson: Ellie’s father, who is distant and uninvolved in his daughter’s life.
Plot
The plot of "Things We Never Got Over" is engaging and suspenseful, with a mix of romance, drama, and humor. Some of the key plot points include:
- The Mystery: The story begins with a mysterious event that sets off a chain of events that will change Ellie’s life forever.
- The Romance: Ellie’s relationship with Julian is a central plot point, as they navigate their feelings for each other amidst the challenges of their relationships with others.
- The Family Drama: The book explores the complexities of family relationships, including the challenges of dealing with grief, loss, and trauma.
Symbolism and Imagery
The book is rich in symbolism and imagery, which adds depth and complexity to the story. Some of the key symbols and images include:
- The Lock: A symbol of Ellie’s emotional state, the lock represents her feelings of being trapped and unable to move forward.
- The Locks: A recurring image throughout the book, the locks represent the barriers that Ellie and others face in their relationships and personal lives.
- The Flowers: A symbol of hope and renewal, the flowers represent Ellie’s desire for change and growth.
Conclusion
"Things We Never Got Over" is a thought-provoking and engaging novel that explores themes of grief, loss, friendship, and identity. With its relatable characters, engaging plot, and rich symbolism, the book is a must-read for young adult readers. As we reflect on the book’s themes and characters, we are reminded of the importance of human connection, the power of love, and the resilience of the human spirit.
Key Statistics
- Pages: 384 pages
- Genre: Young Adult Fiction
- Published: 2015
- Author: Jenny Han
- Publisher: Simon & Schuster
- Awards: Goodreads Choice Award for Young Adult Fiction (2015)
Recommendation
"Things We Never Got Over" is a great read for young adult readers who are looking for a story that explores complex themes and relationships. The book is suitable for readers aged 14 and above, although it may be more appealing to readers in their early twenties.