How It Ends by Laura Wiess

Publisher: Simon & Schuster UK
Pub. Date:
Age Range: Young Adult
Pages:
Format: paperback
Source Of Copy: from the publisher - S&S UK

All Hanna's wanted since sophomore year is Seth. She's gone out with other guys, even gained a rep for being a flirt, all the while hoping cool, guitar-playing Seth will choose her. Then she gets him -- but their relationship is hurtful, stormy and critical, not at all what Hanna thinks a perfect love should be. Bewildered by Seth's treatment of her and in need of understanding, Hanna decides to fulfill her school's community service requirement by spending time with Helen, her terminally ill neighbor, who she's turned to for comfort and wisdom throughout her life. But illness has changed Helen into someone Hanna hardly knows, and her home is not the refuge it once was. Feeling more alone than ever, Hanna gets drawn into an audiobook the older woman is listening to, a fierce, unsettling love story of passion, sacrifice, and devotion. Hanna's fascinated by the idea that such all-encompassing love can truly exist, and without her even realizing it, the story begins to change her. Until the day when the story becomes all too real...and Hanna's world is spun off its axis by its shattering, irrevocable conclusion.


A compelling book which is super well written. A novel that can be shared among generations. Realistic and breaking stories of love will surely satisfy those who are seeking ones of a different kind - calmer and more meaningful.

The first thing that strikes me as beautiful is Laura Wiess's writing. The whole book is told in a very laid back tone but it's still noticeable that there are distinguish voices for each of the two narrators. With Helen, there's something very classic about it, while Hanna's side is more impulsive and innocent. Also, the switches between the voices are really smooth so the reading won't be disturbed a bit.

There are, to me, 4 stories in this book. One about the special friendship of Helen and Hanna - the grandmother who finds happiness in the little girl and the kid who trust her older friend to keep her childhood safe and peaceful. One about Hanna pursuing her very first love interest, one of Helen and Lon's precious love and another of Peter and Louise in the audio book named How It Ends. All of them are heartfelt and easy to relate too. That's why, regardless of your age, you'll love the book.

The characters in this book and those in real life are alike so even if it's an annoying one like Seth, you can't help but like him. Personally, Ithink Hanna is very well portrayed. She's over all a good girl but there's still rebellion in her like every teenager. With Helen, she's a complete sweetheart but when it comes to her love life she's a little reckless. But that doesn't make her character confusing at all. Helen, Lon, Peter and Louise will also be those that capture your heart.

Both the ending of How It Ends the audio book and How It Ends the actual book is very impressive and thought-provoking, which I adore a lot.

Bottom line: Recommended to everyone.


Rating: 4/5