Holding Up the Universe is an important, character driven, piece of literature. Jennifer Niven carefully and passionately writes about the connection between characters. How much we all have in common. How two unlikely characters can find each other and form such strong connections. This story is about the connection between Jack Masselin and Libby Strout, both being so misunderstood by everyone. Except for each other.

      Jack Masselin has Prosopagnosia, or face blindness, meaning he is unable to recognize faces after he sees them. He battles with this challenge, holding it as a close secret that he shares with Libby. Libby battles issues regarding her weight and history of disordered eating as a trauma response to her childhood. She is returning to school for the first time since her world had fallen apart after losing her mom in elementary school. She is constantly labeled, limited, judged. Libby overcomes social burden, consistently standing up for herself and others around her.

      Following the stories of these characters is so inspiring, focused on bravery, self-improvement, and forming meaningful friendships. One cannot read this book without becoming a better person because of it. Niven switches perspective between these two characters, each time diving into their psyche, bringing them to life. Libby Strout’s candor, humor, and vulnerability makes her character so charming and captivating.

      What is so special about this book is Jennifer Niven’s skill of writing such lively characters and deliberately intertwining their lives. I am so fascinated by character driven work, and Holding Up the Universe withholds the perfect diegesis through both perspectives.

 

 

xoxo-

Christina Baggitt