Why We Broke Up by Daniel Handler

Carlee | Holmdel High School, Grade 11

Rating: *****

This book is a letter from Min to her ex-boyfriend, Ed. She uses a box of things she collected throughout their relationship and recounts different memories they had together which are all small clues as to why they broke up. Ed is the co-captain of the basketball team who has dated almost every girl at school and is basically praised by all while Min is the type of girl where you only know her if she is in your crowd. While the odds are completely against them, when they are together it is like magic and they quickly fall in love. Unfortunately, paradise doesn't last forever and just when you begin to see everything fall into place for these two they face a truly heart wrenching breakup.

The first 2 chapters are extremely difficult to read because the writer's style is very unique but, once you get used to it, the style used really helps move the story along and keep you interested throughout the rest of the novel. Ed and Min’s short lived romance is easy to fall deeper into with every word and kept me wanting more. In my opinion the most impressive part of this book is the way I got attached. While the main romance is incredible, the side characters such as Ed’s sister and Min’s best friend are a great addition to the story! Finally, although the breakup scene in the book is heartbreaking, in my opinion it is the most well- written thing I have ever read. The way it plays with your heart through the multiple analogies and descriptiveness portrayed is incomparable to anything I have ever read. Everything about this book kept me on my toes and made me want more.