Literary Merit: Excellent
Characterization: n/a
Level: High school
Recommended: Highly

The editor of this book asked young adults from all over the world to write a letter to Heartbreak, and they did not disappoint. From detailed missives to simple “F*ck you” notes, young adults poured their hearts out about their experiences with Heartbreak. Young Adult authors read those letters and they each picked one that spoke to them so strongly that they couldn’t NOT respond. The result is a heartfelt give and take with those who have experienced similar pain.

Teens reading this book will probably see themselves in at least one of the letters to Heartbreak. The responses from the mostly female YA authors are equally heartfelt and sincere, and those who are familiar with the works of these authors will find themselves admiring them even more. For example, I did not know that Libba Bray had been disfigured in a car accident when she was 18 and had lost an eye. I absolutely adore Libba Bray and her books, but that made me love and appreciate her all the more. Heartbreak is universal, but having someone that you respect and admire tell you that you will be okay, that you will be stronger because of the experience, and that the important thing is that you love yourself, is very powerful. Highly recommended for gr. 9-12. ( )