Plot Summary

Why We Broke Up

Daniel Handler
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Why We Broke Up

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2011

Book Brief

Daniel Handler

Why We Broke Up

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2011
Book Details
Pages

368

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

California • Contemporary

Publication Year

2011

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

15-18 years

Lexile Level

900L

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Super Short Summary

Why We Broke Up by Daniel Handler, illustrated by Maira Kalman, chronicles the intense five-week relationship between Min Green, a studious high school junior, and Ed Slaterton, a senior basketball star. Presented as a letter from Min to Ed, the book narrates their rise and fall through a box of sentimental items, exploring themes of love, infatuation, and identity.

Melancholic

Bittersweet

Emotional

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

3.8

59,400 ratings

51%

Loved it

30%

Mixed feelings

19%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Reviews of Daniel Handler's Why We Broke Up reflect mixed sentiments. Positively, readers appreciate the genuine, relatable teenage voice and unique narrative style. However, some criticize it for being overly melodramatic and occasionally monotonous. Overall, the book offers a heartfelt exploration of young love's complexities.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Why We Broke Up?

Fans of poignant, introspective young adult fiction like The Fault in Our Stars or Looking for Alaska will resonate with Why We Broke Up by Daniel Handler. Ideal for readers who appreciate nuanced emotional storytelling and illustrations that enhance the narrative, this book explores the intricacies of teenage relationships with a blend of humor and heartache.

3.8

59,400 ratings

51%

Loved it

30%

Mixed feelings

19%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

368

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

California • Contemporary

Publication Year

2011

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

15-18 years

Lexile Level

900L

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