The Light We Lost by Jill Santopolo Book Talk
Title: The Light We Lost
Author: Jill Santopolo
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Page Count: 321 Pages
Published: May 9, 2017
Summary:
Graduating seniors from Columbia University, Gabe and Lucy meet each other on a horrific day in American history- September 11, 2001. The pair drift apart after graduation only to be reunited a year later. Their career aspirations prove to be a difficulty in their relationship. Lucy wants to live in New York and become a television producer. Gabe wants to travel abroad and be a photojournalist.
The story follows Lucy as she ponders her connection with Gabe and what she truly wants in her life. Over the years, fate and choice keep them in each other’s thoughts– even when they are with other people.
(This book is also featured on Reese Witherspoon’s reading list.)
My Thoughts:
I have read this book twice now. The book is quick to read with short chapters that remind you of life going by in the blink of an eye. This book has sexual themes included in the story and mentions of tragic events, so I would recommend it for ages 18 and up.
I love the writing style in this book. It is written as a letter from Lucy to Gabe, which is a very unique spin on a typical romance novel. The only other book I have personally read that was written in a similar way is, The Perks of Being a Wallflower. The main character was difficult for me to support at times. When I first read this a few years ago, I was looking at the characters through the eyes of a teenager. Back then, I could understand making mistakes and being indecisive. This time, I felt more conflicted about the course of action Lucy decided to take. At the same time, this made her a fun character to follow since I did not know what she would do next.
Having the book begin on September 11 is always a hard pill to swallow when I pick up this book. Though we should never forget that day and the lives that were lost, it is a tough reminder when you are not expecting to read about it. All I could think about at the start of the book was the 9/11 documentaries we watched in school and the dispatch calls we listened to.
Overall I enjoyed reading this book. It reminded me a bit of Colleen Hoover’s book, It Ends With Us. No matter how frustrating the main character can be, it is an interesting story and a well written book that is worth the read. Be prepared for a roller coaster of emotions. I can assure you that this book does not end the way you think it will.
ashleyohare 