Book Review: Five Feet Apart by Rachael Lippincott
When I first picked up Five Feet Apart, I was drawn in by the promise of a love story that defied the odds. As I flipped through its pages, I found myself thinking about all the ways we connect—and disconnect—in our lives. Rachael Lippincott’s poignant narrative about Stella and Will, two teens battling cystic fibrosis, masterfully explores love within the confines of a hospital room, where the stakes are life and death.
The essence of Five Feet Apart lies in its exploration of relationships overshadowed by illness. Stella Grant, a meticulous planner with dreams hanging on the precipice of a lung transplant, finds her world turned upside down when she meets Will Newman. Will’s rebellious spirit contrasts sharply with Stella’s need for control. Their connection is charged with a magnetic pull, yet they are forbidden to get too close—a mere six feet apart in the name of safety. This punishing distance transforms into a heartbreaking reality, making every moment filled with both possibility and pain.
The narrative deftly balances humor and heartbreak, allowing readers to engage deeply with both characters. I found myself laughing at their witty banter one moment and reaching for tissues the next. Stella’s so-called “control freak” nature, juxtaposed with Will’s “I want to escape” attitude, leads to a rich exploration of trust and vulnerability. Lippincott’s writing captures the rawness and beauty of first love—even when wrapped in the shadows of impending tragedy.
One memorable quote that resonated with me is, “You have to love someone enough to let them go.” This hits home especially as Will and Stella navigate their intense feelings while facing the harsh realities of their conditions. Lippincott reminds us that love can be both liberating and confining, a theme that lingered with me long after I turned the last page.
The pacing of the book is swift; I often found myself lost in the whirlwind of their emotional journey, devouring chapters in a single sitting. The structure flows seamlessly, filled with a raw honesty that ensures no moment feels wasted. It’s clear that Lippincott has poured her heart into this, revealing the layered complexity of a friendship and romance that teeters on the edge of hope and despair.
This book is not merely a tale of teenage love; it’s an illumination of resilience and a testament to friendship. It skillfully raises awareness about cystic fibrosis, drawing attention to a condition many may not fully understand. Readers who appreciate heartfelt stories of love intertwined with illness—much like The Fault in Our Stars or Everything, Everything—will find themselves enchanted by this read.
In conclusion, Five Feet Apart isn’t just a love story; it’s a celebration of what it means to truly live, even when life seems unbearably tough. I found myself reflecting on my own relationships and the moments that matter most. Whether you’re a young adult or simply young at heart, this book is a journey worth taking—one that invites us all to pull a little closer, even when life keeps us at a distance.