This novel is full of solemn topics - suicide, depression, bullying, abuse, death, and grieving. I was extremely hesitant about reading this title because I knew it dealt with suicide. I had to stop several times while reading and step away from the story, as I tend to be easily effected by stories that have a bit of darkness to them.

The story was told tastefully and in a way that young people could relate to. I think Niven did an excellent job in portraying the emotions that teenagers feel while in the midst of falling in love, feeling alone and lost, and in moments of conflict. To read the thoughts, although fictional, of an individual struggling with bipolar disorder and teetering on the edge of suicide was a bit jarring. Although this was a novel full of tragic events, it was also full of humor, and excitement. Just because a topic might be taboo or difficult to discuss, does not mean it should be avoided. I applaud Niven for writing a novel full of real issues and doing so for a young adult audience.

Due to the mature themes present in of this novel I would be mindful of the student body you ask to read this. I would reserve this title for high school, perhaps even junior and senior level courses. These are topics that yes, need to be discussed, however, there needs to be a discussion prior to the book about these topics, as well as one after the reading, and possibly several during the course of reading as well. I would also go ahead and preview the last few pages where Niven thoughtfully included information for various agencies specializing in suicide prevention, mental health in teens, bullying, abuse, and surviving suicide.

After reading this novel students could compare it to books that also deal with mental health, abuse, grief, suicide, and depression. Possible titles are:

• The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson
• Your Voice is All I Hear by Leah Scheier
• 13 Reasons Why by Jay Asher
• The Last Time We Say Goodbye by Cynthia Hand

Perhaps a lighter extension activity could be researching the Jovian-Plutonian gravitational effect and Sir Patrick Moore. Students could also be asked to venture out to one or two local natural wonders and report back to the class with photos and reflection pieces of how they felt or what they experienced while wandering.

This is a link to a video of author, Jennifer Niven reflects on her inspiration for the novel.

This is a link to the trailer of the movie released in 2015 inspired by this novel.