Five Feet Apart by Rachael Lippincott Book Review

Five Feet Apart by Rachael Lippincott Book Review

Five Feet Apart by Rachael Lippincott tells the poignant story of Stella Grant, a teenager with cystic fibrosis who must maintain a safe distance from others, including her love interest, Will. Set against the backdrop of a hospital, the novel explores themes of love, loss, and the struggles of living with a chronic illness. As Stella navigates her condition, she learns about the importance of connection and the challenges of her disease. This book is ideal for readers interested in contemporary young adult fiction and those looking to understand the realities of cystic fibrosis. The narrative is both heartwarming and heartbreaking, making it a compelling read for fans of emotional storytelling.

Key Points

  • Explores the challenges of living with cystic fibrosis through the character of Stella Grant.
  • Highlights the love story between Stella and Will, who must stay six feet apart due to their illnesses.
  • Addresses themes of friendship, family, and the impact of chronic illness on relationships.
  • Set primarily in a hospital, providing insight into the daily lives of patients with cystic fibrosis.
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  • Varnika
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For Alyson
—R. L.
We dedicate this book, and the movie, to all the patients, amilies,
medical sa, and loved ones who bravely fight the battle against
cystic fibrosis every day. We hope the story of Stella and Will helps
to bring awareness to this disease and, one day, a cure.
—M. D. and T. I.
CHAPTER 1
STELLA
I trace the outline of my sister’s drawing, lungs molded from a sea of
owers. Petals burst out from every edge of the twin ovals in so pinks, deep
whites, even heather blues, but somehow each one has a uniueness, a vibrancy
that feels like it’ll bloom forever. Some of the owers haven’t blossomed yet,
and I can feel the promise of life just waiting to unfold from the tiny buds
under the weight of my nger. ose are my favorites.
I wonder, all too oen, what it would be like to have lungs this healthy.
is alive. I take a deep breath, feeling the air ght its way in and out of my
body.
Slipping o the last petal of the last ower, my hand sinks, ngers
draing through the background of stars, each pinpoint of light that Abby
drew a separate attempt to capture innity. I clear my throat, pulling my hand
away, and lean over to grab a picture of us from o my bed. Identical smiles
peek out from underneath thick wool scarves, the holiday lights at the park
down the street twinkling above our heads just like the stars in her drawing.
ere was something magical about it. e so glow of the lampposts in
the park, the white snow clinging to the branches of the trees, the uiet
stillness of it all. We nearly froze our butts o for that picture last year, but it
was our tradition. Me and Abby, braving the cold to go see the holiday lights
together.
is photo always makes me remember that feeling. e feeling of going on
an adventure with my sister, just the two of us, the world expanding like an
open book.
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FAQs of Five Feet Apart by Rachael Lippincott Book Review

What is the main theme of Five Feet Apart?
The main theme of Five Feet Apart revolves around the challenges of love and connection in the face of chronic illness. Stella Grant, who has cystic fibrosis, struggles with the limitations imposed by her condition, particularly the need to maintain a safe distance from others, including her love interest, Will. The novel explores how these challenges affect her relationships with friends and family, emphasizing the importance of emotional connections despite physical barriers. Ultimately, it highlights the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Who are the main characters in Five Feet Apart?
The main characters in Five Feet Apart are Stella Grant and Will Newman. Stella is a determined and organized teenager who has cystic fibrosis and is focused on her health and future. Will, on the other hand, is a rebellious young man also suffering from the same illness, who initially resists the strict rules of his treatment. Their relationship develops as they navigate their shared experiences in the hospital, leading to a deep emotional connection that challenges the boundaries set by their conditions.
How does Five Feet Apart portray cystic fibrosis?
Five Feet Apart portrays cystic fibrosis as a complex and life-altering condition that significantly impacts the lives of those affected. Through Stella's perspective, readers gain insight into the daily struggles of managing the disease, including the rigorous treatment routines and the emotional toll it takes on patients. The novel also highlights the importance of awareness and understanding of chronic illnesses, aiming to foster empathy among readers. By depicting the realities of living with cystic fibrosis, the story encourages discussions about health, love, and the human experience.
What is the significance of the title Five Feet Apart?
The title Five Feet Apart refers to the physical distance that Stella and Will must maintain due to their cystic fibrosis. This distance symbolizes the emotional and physical barriers that chronic illness can create in relationships. The title encapsulates the central conflict of the story, where love and connection are challenged by the necessity of keeping a safe distance for health reasons. It serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices that individuals with chronic illnesses often make in their pursuit of love and companionship.
What message does Five Feet Apart convey about love and illness?
Five Feet Apart conveys a powerful message about the resilience of love in the face of illness. It illustrates how love can flourish even under challenging circumstances, as seen through the relationship between Stella and Will. The novel emphasizes that while chronic illness can create physical barriers, emotional connections can transcend those limitations. It encourages readers to appreciate the moments of joy and connection that can exist despite the hardships of living with a serious health condition.

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