Nicole Reviews: So Much Closer by Susane Colasanti

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Available from Amazon, Book Depository, Penguin.ca

"One of the most amazing things that can happen is finding someone who sees everything you are and won't let you be anything less.  They see the potential of you.  They see endless possibilities.  And through their eyes, you start to see yourself the same way.  As someone who matters.  As someone who can make a difference in this world.

If you are lucky enough to find that person, never let them go."  (pg.241)

This is what the author leaves you with at the end of this book.  It is a powerful message, that unfortunately not everyone understands when it comes to their relationships.

This novel is about a struggling teenager.  Her relationship with her parents is strained, and she has masked her potential and intelligence in order to fit in with her peers.  She thinks she is in love with this (in her eyes) popular, talented and handsome boy.  When she finds out that he is moving to New York City- she moves to her Dad's house... conveniently down the block from the boy.

I thought that this book was going to be about this girl changing for this boy.  Warping into something she is not in order to gain acceptance and love from him.  I thought, (at first) how pathetic and tragic that young people feel the need to change for other people, and not allow the person they are meant to be shine through.  I asked myself what kind of message this is sending.  How can anyone think that it is acceptable to be someone you are not, just to have the illusion of love from someone else?

As I read on, I realized that this book was sending the complete opposite message.  The book was about finding yourself, thinking outside the box, and being happy with the choices that you make for yourself.  Realizing your true potential and surrounding yourself with people who love and respect you for the person you are, is far better than living a lie.

"The most important thing that I am figuring out is who I am.  When I can accept who I am instead of fighting it, then I'll be ready for a real relationship" pg.218

I really enjoyed this book.  I love the way that it was written.  It grabbed me at the very first page and left me wanting more at the end.  I fell in love with the characters and the plot.  I couldn't put this book down, it was such an enjoyable read.  I like how each character has their own identity and I love how I felt connected to each one of them.  Each chapter kept unfolding to something bigger and better, and I needed to know what was going to happen next, and who was going to say what.  It is a story of love and hope, and gaining the knowledge of yourself to be a better person, and to cherish the people in your life.  As I read on, the intended messages became clearer and clearer. 

"Sometimes if you reach out, the person you're trying to reach will be right there waiting." pg.216

A great read.  It is a book that I will read again and again.  I LOVED THIS BOOK!!!!

Nicole