Review: The Beginning of Everything by Robyn Schneider

Title: The Beginning of Everything

Author: Robyn Schneider

Publisher: Harper Collins/Katherine Tegen

Publication Date: August 2013

Genre: Young Adult Realistic Fiction

Series or Stand Alone: Stand Alone

Synopsis can be found here.
I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review.

Review:

Ezra was popular, until he wasn't. Now, after an accident, his life as prom king has officially ended and he's trying to pick up the pieces and find where he fits in. Enter Cassidy, a girl who is so different, so mysterious that he can't help be drawn to her. But who is she really? And in the end, who is Ezra?

I wasn't sure what to expect from this book. The original title was "Severed Heads, Broken Hearts" and I think it's being released in the UK under this name. Yes, the title sounded like a zombie book. And no, I don't like this new title better. Because this new title seems generic, bland. And this book is anything but.

I love Ezra, his inner struggles with identity and trying to figure out where he fit in after his accident. He has such a full character arc, changing from a broken kid mourning his previous life to a self assured young man who knows himself.

Cassidy doesn't talk about her past, or the troubles she faces. Through the entire book, she remains detached, a mystery, a blurry object that falls through your fingers. But that's why I liked her. Because in the end, this is about Ezra, not about Cassidy. And I love Ezra more for it.

I especially loved the misfit of characters that were the debate team. Their dialogue was easy and flowing, and while reading I felt like I was one of their friends too.

The book has some funny and heartwarming moments. I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this story, and how sad I was when it was over. I spent many stolen moments opening the book, even if I could read just one page.

Overall, a wonderful story.
Read this!

Rating 8 Cookie Worthy