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.

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

Jennifer Niven

Novel

Fiction

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Before You Read

Explore Holding Up The Universe reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Holding Up The Universe | SuperSummary

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Overview

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Holding Up The Universe Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Pages 15-34

Holding Up The Universe Pages 15-34 Summary & Analysis

Pages 35-66

Holding Up The Universe Pages 35-66 Summary & Analysis

Pages 67-97

Holding Up The Universe Pages 67-97 Summary & Analysis

Pages 98-162

Holding Up The Universe Pages 98-162 Summary & Analysis

Pages 163-213

Holding Up The Universe Pages 163-213 Summary & Analysis

Pages 214-245

Holding Up The Universe Pages 214-245 Summary & Analysis

Pages 246-286

Holding Up The Universe Pages 246-286 Summary & Analysis

Pages 287-330

Holding Up The Universe Pages 287-330 Summary & Analysis

Pages 331-401

Holding Up The Universe Pages 331-401 Summary & Analysis

Pages 402-449

Holding Up The Universe Pages 402-449 Summary & Analysis

Pages 450-498

Holding Up The Universe Pages 450-498 Summary & Analysis

Pages 499-525

Holding Up The Universe Pages 499-525 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Holding Up The Universe Character Analysis

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Themes

Holding Up The Universe Themes

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Holding Up The Universe Symbols & Motifs

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Holding Up The Universe Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Holding Up The Universe Essay Topics

Holding Up The Universe

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

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Who Should Read Holding Up The Universe?

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Book Details