Every Last Word by Tamara Ireland Stone (Realistic Fiction)

In the book Evert Last Word, the main character Samantha explored the struggle of having mental illnesses as a teenage girl in high school. She has always kept these mental illnesses from her friends because she was scared of what they would think. Her mind is constantly filled with dark thoughts and worries that she can’t let go off or turn off. Daily life is a struggle because she constantly questions her every action, idea, and statement. It also doesn't help that her lifelong friends will become toxic at the first sign of a wrong outfit, wrong lunch, or wrong crush. Samantha is aware that it would be insane for her to leave the safety of the most well-liked students. Samantha feels a strong attraction to Caroline as soon as they meet. Caroline stands out from the crowd because she doesn't wear makeup and doesn't care what people think of her appearance. Her lack of judgment and focus solely on friendship is like a breath of fresh air. Samantha meets up with some of Caroline's friends in a secret room beneath the school theater known Poet's Corner. Sam had no idea that a group of outcasts would forever alter her life.

I loved reading this book! I got through it quickly because I was so interested and was on the edge of my seat while reading. Every Last Word conveys valuable knowledge to us such as knowing when to cut toxic relationships out of your life, whether they are with friends or a boyfriend. No matter how difficult something may be, when you have tried and nothing changes and the relationship becomes harmful, it's time to let go. It also teaches you to learn to love and accept yourself, flaws and all. If others can't accept you for who you are, they are probably not worth having in your life. You want to surround yourself with those who accept you despite your flaws.There is not a movie made for this book, but I hope one will be made! It was motivational and gave me a completely fresh viewpoint on the world. I’ve come to understand how much lives of others affect our own because we unconsciously pick up lessons from one another every day. Samantha taught me that we elevate one another, not only through our words and deeds but also through the collective experiences of our society. I give this book a ten out of ten rating and hope that one day everyone will have the opportunity to read this book about a girl’s life that will transfer your own.

Reviewed by Juliana M. 10^th Grade