I read a lot of books. And there are a lot of characters is those books that I wish I could be. This may be the first book in which I've been afraid to finish because I felt like I WAS the main character. Let me explain...

At first glance, Levi Katznelson and I have nothing in common. Levi is a 17 year old jewish boy who is still trying to find his place in the world. I am a thirtysomething year old woman who identifies herself as a christian with a well established identity. The differences end there. We both have a life that has been indirectly turned upside down because of war. See, Levi and I have brothers who have gone to war and returned as someone that is unrecognizable. We've expended an enormous amount of energy trying to figure out just what the hell happened to them.

Levi and I have taken different approaches in our dealings with said brothers. Levi takes an active approach and maybe even a more mature way than I have. I've remained silent in my sadness (I haven't spoken to my brother in almost two years) and I really enjoyed seeing how Levi's situation played out. I almost picked up the phone and called my brother. Almost.

I promise this book is not ALL doom and gloom. There are some laugh out loud parts reminiscent of John Green. I loved hearing the thoughts of a 17/18 year old boy. Always funny! I'm so very thankful Gayle Forman put this book on her list of recommended reads. I would have never found this book without her help.

A final note: There are some very strong political statements in this book, all of which I completely agree with. Be warned, however, that you may be offended if you have sensitive feelings about the ongoing war in the Middle East. Even so, read this book.