If you are searching for a book that makes you sob, giggle, and you could likely be able to relate to, Falling Over Sideways is the book for you. Jordan Sonnenblick, the author, published this heartbreaking story in 2016.
His book captivates the heartbreaking story of a 13 year old girl named Claire who experiences her dad having a stroke right before her eyes. Her dad had been completely healthy before and they had a strong bond.
She tells her story of the hardships she goes through when her dad suddenly becomes unable to speak, talk, and walk. She shares the ways of how her life dramatically changes after her father’s stroke. She experiences vicissitudes with school, at home, at her dance class, and even eating dinner as a family. Readers feel deeply connected and empathetic towards Claire.
I could personally relate to Claire because my grandma was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and she reminds me of Claire’s father. My grandma had to stay at our house for the treatment she was receiving in Arizona. I went through some of the same hardships Claire did, such as school changing, having to make our house accessible for my grandma to be able to move around, and dinner became different because my grandma would refuse to eat, just like Claire’s dad did.
When Claire was in the hospital for hours, worrying about her father, it reminded me of myself. I remember worrying about my grandma whenever she had to go in for surgeries or brutal chemotherapy treatments.
Personally, I would give Falling Over Sideways a ⅘ stars. It was engaging and a remarkable read, but it was not my favorite book I have ever read. I would recommend this to everyone, but especially people who have gone through the experience of a loved one becoming sick.
Claire goes into depth about the exact feelings she felt, which I could never put to words when I was going through the same experience. I enjoyed her perspective on her situation because she stayed hopeful and strong, especially at a young age.
My only critique would be that there was not an antagonist. I would have liked to read some juicy drama or something go wrong from the fault of an antagonist. It was still interesting and intriguing, but there could have been more situations that went wrong.
All in all, it is an engaging book and you will fall in love with Claire’s amiable personality. Even though it is a hard storyline, Claire’s hopefulness and braveness inspires readers to feel optimistic. I would encourage people to give Falling Over Sideways by Jordan Sonnenblick a try!
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