56 pages • 1 hour read
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.
416
Novel • Fiction
Indiana • 2010s
2016
YA
14-18 years
770L
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
141,722 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
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.
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.
141,722 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Libby Strout
A self-assured high school junior known for her weight loss journey and love of dancing, she confronts bullying with confidence and humor.
Caroline Lushamp
A popular girl at school and Jack's on-again, off-again girlfriend, known for her beauty and rivalry with Libby.
Dusty Masselin
Jack's 10-year-old brother, characterized by his scrawny build, red-brown Afro, and unshakeable confidence.
Will Strout
Libby's caring and protective single father who shares a strong bond with her after the loss of her mother.
Dave “Kam” Kaminski
One of Jack's best friends, a popular jock who influences Jack's decisions, especially in social situations.
Bailey Bishop
Libby's earnest and supportive school friend who reconnects with her when Libby returns to Martin Van Buren High.
Iris Englebrecht
Libby's school friend who becomes an ally after sharing similar experiences with bullying.
Marcus Masselin
Jack's 16-year-old brother, responsible for eventually taking over the family business.
Nate Masselin
Jack's father, a cancer survivor, and owner of Masselin’s Toys.
Susan Masselin
Jack's loving and pragmatic mother, unaware of family secrets until the end.
Reed Young
A student at Martin Van Buren High who gets into conflicts with Jack over relationship misunderstandings.
Heather Alpern
Coach of the Damsels, the school drill team for which Libby auditions, though she ultimately forms her own dance squad.
Mr. Levine
The school counselor who leads the Conversation Circle, a safe space for addressing issues like bullying and conflict.
Monica Chapman
Jack’s chemistry teacher and a key figure in his family dynamics.
Moses Hunt
A school bully known for his cruel treatment of others, including past and present harassment of Libby.
Rachel Mendes
Libby’s counselor and long-time support figure who shares a close relationship with her.
Seth Powell
Part of Jack’s friend group, who encourages Jack in his socially thoughtless behavior.
Kendra Wu
Caroline’s best friend and partner in bullying tactics, often targeting Libby.
416
Novel • Fiction
Indiana • 2010s
2016
YA
14-18 years
770L
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.