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56 pages 1 hour read

Holding Up The Universe

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2016

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Book Brief

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Jennifer Niven

Holding Up The Universe

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2016
Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Indiana • 2010s

Publication Year

2016

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

770L

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Super Short Summary

In Holding Up The Universe, two teenagers in Amos, Indiana, form an unlikely romance while dealing with their own personal challenges: Jack Masselin, who secretly suffers from prosopagnosia, and Libby Strout, labeled “America’s Fattest Teen” after a panic attack required her to be rescued from her home. They navigate high school, family dynamics, and their developing feelings while confronting their identities and societal judgments.

Emotional

Contemplative

Inspirational

Romantic

Hopeful

Reviews & Readership

4.1

141,722 ratings

61%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Holding Up The Universe by Jennifer Niven delivers an emotional narrative about self-acceptance and empathy, resonating with many young adult readers. The character development and engaging storyline are praised, though some critique the predictability of the plot. Overall, it is a compelling read that addresses important themes, despite a few clichéd elements.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Holding Up The Universe?

A reader who would enjoy Holding Up the Universe by Jennifer Niven typically appreciates heartfelt, character-driven YA novels exploring themes of self-acceptance, mental health, and resilience. Fans of All the Bright Places by Niven and Wonder by R.J. Palacio would likely find this book engaging.

4.1

141,722 ratings

61%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

Character List

Jack Masselin

A popular high school junior with physical features like high cheekbones and a strong jaw, he deals with prosopagnosia, a condition that makes it difficult for him to recognize faces.

A self-assured high school junior known for her weight loss journey and love of dancing, she confronts bullying with confidence and humor.

A popular girl at school and Jack's on-again, off-again girlfriend, known for her beauty and rivalry with Libby.

Jack's 10-year-old brother, characterized by his scrawny build, red-brown Afro, and unshakeable confidence.

Libby's caring and protective single father who shares a strong bond with her after the loss of her mother.

One of Jack's best friends, a popular jock who influences Jack's decisions, especially in social situations.

Libby's earnest and supportive school friend who reconnects with her when Libby returns to Martin Van Buren High.

Libby's school friend who becomes an ally after sharing similar experiences with bullying.

Jack's 16-year-old brother, responsible for eventually taking over the family business.

Jack's father, a cancer survivor, and owner of Masselin’s Toys.

Jack's loving and pragmatic mother, unaware of family secrets until the end.

A student at Martin Van Buren High who gets into conflicts with Jack over relationship misunderstandings.

Coach of the Damsels, the school drill team for which Libby auditions, though she ultimately forms her own dance squad.

The school counselor who leads the Conversation Circle, a safe space for addressing issues like bullying and conflict.

Jack’s chemistry teacher and a key figure in his family dynamics.

A school bully known for his cruel treatment of others, including past and present harassment of Libby.

Libby’s counselor and long-time support figure who shares a close relationship with her.

Part of Jack’s friend group, who encourages Jack in his socially thoughtless behavior.

Caroline’s best friend and partner in bullying tactics, often targeting Libby.

Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Indiana • 2010s

Publication Year

2016

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

770L

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