54 pages • 1 hour read
Everything Happens for a Reason: And Other Lies I've Loved
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Book Brief
Everything Happens for a Reason
Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2018208
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
North America • 2010s
2018
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Everything Happens for a Reason is Kate Bowler's memoir recounting her experience of being diagnosed with Stage IV colorectal cancer, navigating experimental treatments, and grappling with the prosperity gospel theology she had studied. She contrasts these beliefs with the supportive Mennonite community from her youth and finds solace in friends, family, and her life lessons as she contemplates her mortality.
Contemplative
Emotional
Inspirational
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
56,030 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Kate Bowler's Everything Happens for a Reason is lauded for its candid exploration of faith and illness. Readers appreciate her humor and vulnerability, which make complex subjects relatable. However, some critique the book for occasional repetitiveness and a lack of comprehensive analysis. Overall, it's a heartfelt memoir that resonates with those facing similar struggles.
Who Should Read Everything Happens for a Reason?
A reader who appreciates When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi or The Bright Hour by Nina Riggs will find Everything Happens for a Reason by Kate Bowler deeply moving. This memoir suits those interested in personal reflections on faith, illness, and finding meaning amidst suffering. Bowler's candid narrative is both engaging and thought-provoking.
56,030 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Toban Penner
Toban Penner
Kate Bowler’s husband, whose steadfast support is pivotal during her illness, and who shares a deep connection to the Mennonite community.
Zach Bowler
Zach Bowler
Kate and Toban's energetic young son, whose presence brings renewed joy to their lives, despite the challenges posed by Kate's health issues.
Friends and Family
Friends and Family
A network of supportive individuals, including intimate friends and family, who rally around Kate during her illness, illustrating the strength found in shared experiences and love.
208
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
North America • 2010s
2018
Adult
18+ years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.