Page 103 - Cornice_Grade 8

Atlas’s life is no less complicated. He is struggling to manage

two booming restaurants and finding very little free time when

suddenly his mother, with whom he had cut ties long ago, returns

to his life. He then discovers something astonishing: he has

a 12-year-old step-brother, Josh.

Surprise follows surprise as the plot unfolds. Both Atlas and Lily have to

face their fears, declaring their relationship being the major one.

Handling Ryle is another. Just like any other Colleen Hoover’s book, It

Starts With Us is unpredictable, but that’s what makes it so great. She has
once again amazed her ‘CoHorts’ by portraying bold female characters

who defy male expectations. There’s something about Lily that rubs me,

and many other readers, wrong, but I do admire her courage.

This entrancing story has captivated millions of readers around the world.

Thankfully, there are no illustrations in this book, enabling us readers to

imagine the characters in our own way. Hopefully, when the movie is

released, it will not spoil the images in my mind (or yours, when you read

the book, as you no doubt will).

Like me, readers will love this book not just for its enthralling plot but also
for its characters and the urge that most have to defend their favorite

characters. Arguments about whether Lily deserves either Ryle or Atlas

are rife. And we cannot forget the uplifting theme: even survivors of

domestic abuse can rise above the violence and do great things.

I highly recommend this book for ages 13 and above.

Rebecca Rai

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