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52 pages 1 hour read

When We Collided

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2016

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Book Brief

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Emery Lord

When We Collided

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

366

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Verity, California • Contemporary

Theme
Publication Year

2016

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

HL730L

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Super Short Summary

When We Collided by Emery Lord follows the summer romance between Vivi, a spirited 16-year-old with bipolar disorder, and Jonah, a 17-year-old coping with his father's death and family responsibilities in Verona Cove. Through their relationship, both characters navigate their struggles, learn about love, family, and personal growth, ultimately parting ways with newfound insights. The book includes themes of mental illness and grief.

Emotional

Melancholic

Romantic

Contemplative

Hopeful

Reviews & Readership

4.2

30,498 ratings

67%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

When We Collided by Emery Lord is praised for its heartfelt portrayal of mental health and complex characters. Reviewers commend the genuine emotional depth and vivid writing. However, some feel the plot lacks believability in parts and the pacing uneven. Overall, it stands out for its sensitive handling of tough subjects and memorable character development.

Who should read this

Who Should Read When We Collided?

Readers who enjoy When We Collided by Emery Lord are typically fans of YA contemporary romance with deep emotional narratives. They would appreciate the mental health themes and character-driven stories. Fans of All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven or Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell will find a similar appeal.

4.2

30,498 ratings

67%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Character List

Vivian “Vivi” Irene Alexander

A 16-year-old girl who moves to Verona Cove with her mother, known for her vibrant personality and creative aspirations of becoming a costume designer, who is managing life with bipolar disorder.

A 17-year-old aspiring chef dealing with his family's grief after his father's death, who becomes deeply involved with Vivi.

Vivi's artist mother, who is protective and deeply concerned about Vivi's well-being.

Vivi's biological father, who relinquished custody after an affair with Carrie while married.

The youngest of the Daniels siblings, who loves spending time with her family and admires Vivi.

A book-loving Daniels sibling who often bickers with his sister Bekah.

An 11-year-old Daniels sibling with a penchant for bickering with her brother Isaac.

The second-oldest Daniels sibling who works as a barista and considers deferring college to help his family.

The eldest Daniels sibling, studying environmental engineering, who supports her family through difficult times.

The grieving mother of the Daniels family, who begins to regain her life and role after her husband's passing.

The deceased father of the Daniels family who owned a local restaurant and is fondly remembered by the community.

The head chef of Tony's Bistro and a family friend who supports Jonah and his siblings after Tony's death.

Felix’s daughter and close friend to Jonah, who remains kind and supportive throughout the story.

Ellie's brother who has overcome struggles with depression and is studying abroad.

A caring Verona Cove police officer with a gruff exterior, who forms a bond with Vivi over shared breakfasts.

The easygoing owner of the local pottery shop where Vivi works and forms a friendship.

The affectionate owner of the local diner who is supportive of Vivi and Jonah.

Vivi's best friend from Seattle who remains concerned for Vivi after a prior episode.

A former close friend of Vivi's from Seattle who cut ties after an argument at a party.

The owner of the local ice cream parlor who allows Vivi and Jonah access to the building's roof.

An art patron who offers his home to Carrie and Vivi while he is abroad.

Carrie's former boyfriend whose return to India disrupts his relationship with Carrie and Vivi.

Vivi's therapist from Seattle who previously helped in managing her bipolar disorder.

The hospital-appointed therapist who works with Vivi to address her treatment preferences post-accident.

Book Details
Pages

366

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Verity, California • Contemporary

Theme
Publication Year

2016

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

HL730L

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