The Sun is Also a Star Book Review

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For fans of Everything Everything, The Fault in Our Stars, and We Were Liars

A few years ago, I read Yoon’s Everything Everything, so having enjoyed that, I was excited to read The Sun is Also a Star as well. This novel has two protagonists – Natasha and Daniel. Natasha is facing deportation back to Jamaica where she was born after her dad is arrested, and Daniel is facing some difficult life decisions which will decide his future. She’s a scientist, he’s a poet. Both don’t need to fall in love – that would be inconvenient given their circumstances – but when the universe throws them together, who are they to decide?

It’s safe to say I ADORED this book. Yoon’s writing is exquisite and she gave me everything I want from a book and a romance. Having just read Jenny Han’s To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before series, I was disappointed by the mediocrity of the storyline. TSIAAS however, was as epic and star-crossed as I hoped it would be. The narrative flips between Daniel and Natasha and while we get an insight into their lives, Yoon also gives us a look at the lives of some of the people they encounter.

As I’ve said many times, my favourite narratives and stories are those detailing the human condition – and this book is exactly that. Throughout, it’s hard not to feel connected to these characters, who may only have 1 page worth of narrative and yet as a reader, we hear their deepest despairs. I did not expect to be so emotionally connected to this book, but it’s hard not to fall in love with the imperfection of it all.

Another thing I loved was Yoon’s writing. I could quote it forever!! There were whole chapters of stunning writing which just oozed talent and beauty, but even little phrases such as “But the smile on my face needs to be measured in miles instead of inches.” will stay with me for its small, but lasting impact. Simply put, this made my heart happy and even though it wasn’t always a happy narrative, it gave me a sense of meaning and compelled to me to think a little more about the 7.8 billion other people I share this planet with.

All in all it’s safe to say I have nothing bad to say about this book. The ending wasn’t the one I would have chosen, but even that couldn’t make me criticise this story because for me, it was the epitome of life, love, and human existence – and what more would I want from a book!? Nicola Yoon, you smashed it!