Holding Up the Universe by Jennifer Niven

How I wish this book was around when I was a teenager!

This is the story of Libby, also known as ‘America’s Fattest Teen’. She’s lost her mother, found some solace in food and binge eating which in turn lead to bullying in school. I don’t want to get into why I relate to her, but I will say 2023 was not the first time I tried to read this book. It triggered something I was not ready for back when I first tried to read it.

I’m so happy one of my friends recently mentioned it and reminded me that I’d wanted to read it.

We also follow Jack, a teen that cannot recognize faces. The moment someone around him does something different with their hair, they become someone new for Jack as they’ve changed their unique identifier. I’d never heard of such a condition before and I was fascinated.

I’m sure you can guess that Libby’s and Jack’s paths will cross eventually, but I will not reveal any details. I will say though, that this book should become a mandatory read in schools. It’s easy to read, I’m pretty sure most readers will find at least something they can relate to. It’s relatively short and the short alternating perspective chapters keep your interest. Above all, this includes several important messages.

I can’t wait for my book club friends to read it so we can discuss it with them.

Have you read this book? What did you think?