This was a quick read, but it didn't take away from the emotion of this book. I laughed a lot, then would abruptly stop and try not to cry. I was delighted for the characters at so many times, then my heart felt heavy at so many moments. I'm so glad this book was written. ( )

I got this book at my local bookstore on Independent Bookstore day. It was one of those "blind date" books where they wrap the book in paper and write a short description of the story on front, preventing you from "judging a book by its cover". I'm so glad that not only did I get this book but I couldn't see its cover- which doesn't relate the story at ALL and probably wouldn't have been a book I picked up on my own.

This story is told in a mix of letters, lists and journal entries. Ways to Live forever, by Sally Nichols is narriated by an eleven year old boy named Sam who has Leukemia. There are also added pictures of drawings, ticket stubs and postcards- which complement this story so well. This story is fast paced and the language is very easy to read, but the story- oh the story.

I don't know if I've ever been this emotional over such a short book, or any book to be honest. In just a short 224 pgs I had to put this book down countless times because of how emotionally gripping it is.

While this novel isn't perfect, I rated it 5*'s because of how moving it is. If I was any less moved by this story I probably would've given it a solid 4*'s. I loved all the characters, although I wish there was a little more background info on them. Sam and Felix have a beautiful friendship and I absolutely love them both. There were some things I wish that could've been added to the story, minor details, that I feel would've made this story better/ stronger?

This is small book packed with a powerful story and I'm left with mixed feelings. I'm heartbroken but relieved. I'm all over the place right now. So I'll be back to finish / fix my review tomorrow when my head is more clear.

*** Edit ***

I think why this book moved me so much is because I am a mother and I can't imagine being a parent to child with any sort of cancer or terminal illness. Sam's parents dealt with his disease in their own way, while struggling to keep him and themselves happy, healthy and stable. The strength these parents have... Its both incredible and inspiring. A cousin of mine just had to experience going through a kidney transplant surgery for her Adoptive son. What a scary situation.

I did find things that I didn't like about the writting (lack of background info for one) but its such a beautiful story about such an ugly disease, that I'm keeping my rating at 5*'s.

I definitely recommend this book to everyone. It could very well break your heart like it did mine, but its well worth the read.


( )

Terminally ill boys question their home-schooling teacher about the big questions in life. Rather than study maths and history, they seek out the answers to the biggest questions people have.

Oh dear! Why do I do this to myself? This sweet story left me blubbering, but I'm so glad I read it. I loved the characters, and while it is ostensibly a simple narrative, there are big questions that can extend readers beyond the story. I loved it! ( )

Ohh, ohh, ohhhh. Here is a wonderful book about death that isn't sentimental or sugar-coated but presents a very realistic and sometimes funny perspective of a dying child. It made me realize that maybe it's the terminally ill children who do a better job of accepting and dealing with their situation while the rest of us allow ourselves to be too hopeful, too careful and too fragile. Sam is a terrific boy with fortitude and his voice is unforgettable. ( )