Holding Up the Universe

Holding Up the Universe is a solid contemporary fiction YA by Jennifer Niven. What I love most about this genre is that it allows you to view a different perspective, and Niven nails two unique POVs in this one!

Holding Up the Universe alternates between two perspectives. One follows Libby, an overweight teen, who at one point was known as "the fattest teen in the world" at over 600 pounds. The second is that of Jack, a multicultural teen faced with prosopagnosia, the inability to recognize faces. These two POVs vary much differently from any I have ever experienced, so this book taught me more about empathy for others than any other book I've read this year. As an adult (and even when I was younger), I never put myself in the shoes of someone who cannot recognize one's own mother's face, nor a person who must be rescued from a room by a crane because of one's size. But this novel makes you do just that.

Holding Up the Universe is not without its flaws; however the short chapters and quick pace, as well as the unforgettable characters make it a book worth picking up. Additionally, as a woman of color, who as a teen never saw myself reflected in any novels I read, I love that Niven takes a chance and features a POC main character and disabilities--and she does so with sensitivity and respect.

I liked this book. But I just liked it. Both of the characters were developed and enjoyable to spend a couple hundred pages with. But I just wasn't entirely hooked. I've commented this on a couple of YA novels, but I'm very pleased with the diversity I've seen in more recent stories. When I was in the demographic for YA novels there wasn't much, if any, diversity apart from the sharp jawed, straight, extremely white muscled 16-year-old. But this book instead focuses on a black and proud boy with an afro and an uncommon disorder who falls in love with an obese and proud girl who loves to dance. Obviously there's still a long way to go in terms of representation in all media, but I'm happy to see popular teen novels expanding their diversity. All in all, I would recommend this book if only for the interesting perspectives you get from Jack and Libby.

Holding Up the Universe by Jennifer Niven was an unexpected joy. I could not put it down to save my life (except maybe for school and sleeping) and I wished it could have gone on forever just so I could truly savor it. The ending was beautiful and glorious, yet so unsatisfying I had to reread it multiple times This story is a triumph. Plain and simple. I can imagine that I will read it again and again and again for yeas to come. The characters were real and honest and individual The dual perspective was refreshing and entertaining. The characters were lively and hysterical and real. Being overweight myself, I feel as thought I can give a much more true reaction to the main character than other non-overweight people can. (Which, in reference to that, I have seen many thinner people criticize this story as if they understand the struggle of overweight people. I do not need you to speak over me and other overweight people. Let our stories be told. Let our triumphs and pitfalls be represented in every beautiful and ugly way they come. -End rant-) I felt the portrayal of Libby and her insecurities and body positivity were perfectly portrayed as both dueling forces and a singular organism working together. Many people (mostly non-overweight people) seemed to want only body positivity and no insecurities from this character. Basically, they wanted an overweight, one-dimensional character to satisfy whatever guilt they had and to prove to them that fat people are always happy. That's not what I, as an overweight person, want. That's not accurate nor is it interesting at all. We are human and we are just as complex and insecure and happy and sad as any other non-overweight person. We are allowed to have insecurities and hold negative ideas about ourselves. We're also allowed, at the same time, to feel like we're awesome and stunning. That's what is at work here with Libby. I also loved the dynamic between Libby and Jack and how their friendship/relationship progressed. It felt like a constant one step forward, two steps back, which felt so authentic. Relationships like this exist, and I and many others have experienced relationships just like this one. Overall, I loved everything about this book. I kept holding my breath, worried that Libby would either get everything she wanted or there would be some sort of offensive/stereotypical aspect about her character, but I was pleasantly surprised. I could relax and feel assured that this story would be just as nuanced and complex as any other story was. I can't speak to the representation of Jack, but I couldn't help rooting for his character. I couldn't help rooting for the both of them.

Holding Up the Universe is about Libby - (previously) America's fattest teen, and Jack - the cool kid who can't remember faces. When Libby starts school again after being home schooled a few years, she becomes the big laugh at school and the victim of a cruel game. Jack, trying his best to fit in and not let anyone know about his handicap, turns out to be the cruelest of them all. But these two misfits gets to know each other and turns to each other for help.

This. Was. So. Sad. And. So. Good! Yes. Just read it!

Some might find this book to be a bit over the top? Maybe? Because of the "America's fattest teen storyline - she actually gets stuck in bed until the rescuers have to tear down part of her house to get her out - you know the story from television. There is a lot of fat-shaming going on, but that is actually how reality is, and that's kinda why Niven has written this book. But it's told in a really great way, and she actually gets better and the way Niven has described her she's a person, not just America's fattest teen. She's a really cool girl, with hopes and dreams and the motivation and stubbornness to go for it.

Jack is good on the inside, but in order to hide his shortcomings he acts out and becomes this shithead to be "one of the guys". It was really interesting to read about prosopagnosia (face blindness) and learning more about this disability. I've never really given it any thought, and now I know more about it, which is great!

The main storyline is pretty simple, and as mentioned maybe a bit over the top, but it gives the characters room to grow and shine. I read this book in one day, because I couldn't put it down.

HOLDING UP THE UNIVERSE by Jennifer Niven is a breath of fresh air! When an author releases their 2nd novel, I always get nervous that they’ll suffer from the sophomore slump. Fortunately Niven is a well-seasoned veteran (she’s written a TON of Adult novels & Non-Fiction), so it goes without saying this book was fantastic.

Libby and Jack are teenagers with two debilitating issues: for Libby it’s her extreme weight; and for Jack, it’s a rare disorder (which he’s kept secret) that prevents him from recognizing faces. The two are unexpectedly drawn together and discover a deep connection. What entails is a beautiful, emotional, and truly sweet story of love, friendship, and self-discovery. Libby & Jack (flawed as he is) are both characters worth rooting for.

Niven is an extremely gifted writer. I adored ALL THE BRIGHT PLACES and wasn’t sure if she could top herself. But she has managed to write an equally compelling and beautiful novel. I was also grateful for a bit happier of an ending this time around.

Grab yourself a copy ASAP!

Note: I received a FREE ARC (advanced reader copy) from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

First, can I just say, I honestly wasn't expecting a lot from this book. I thought it was going to be one of those sickly sweet teen romances. I thought it was going to be the horrible clichéd books where the fat girl gets made fun of, so she loses weight and then falls in love with the troubled popular boy who bullied her. That is not the case in this book.
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"Everyone in my life is a stranger , and that includes me. "

​Holding Up the Universe is about a teenage boy who can't recognize faces and a teenage girl who was once considered America's fattest teen. Libby has lost a lot of weight but is still anywhere from being "normal" sized when she returns to public school for the first time since the fifth grade. Jack can't recognize faces doesn't mean he has no friends and no expectations.

After Jack partakes in a horrible game that involves Libby, Jack and Libby end up in not only community service but group counseling too. Jack and Libby do not get along at first but as they spend more unwanted time together they realize for the first time they don't feel so isolated anymore. Libby and Jack change each other, but is it for the good?
Things I liked: This novel starts and ends with such unflinching honesty.
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"What if I get stuck behind a desk? What if I have to eat lunch alone and no one talks to me for the rest of the school year?"

I loved the fact that both Jack's and Libby's perspective were so relatable to someone people who have attended or attend high school. Both Libby and Jack have such real and authentic voices. There are a lot of moment's when the character's will say something and you kinda just sit there and think "this is so true!".

Libby is a character that just has a personality that jumps off the pages and makes you wish she was a real person and was your friend. Libby Strout is my literary hero. Throughout this book Libby's character growth was such a tremendous thing that every now and then you have to stop reading to appreciate Niven's writing technique and natural skill. Each and every sticky situation Libby got into she came out of it even stronger than before. Not to mention the fact that Libby is a good role model for any girl in high school.

Okay, so, Jack Masselin is the type of character that you want to punch in the face but there's this raw, not deep but raw, honesty and relativity about him that you can't help but root for him. Jack isn't as courageous or brave as our Libby is but his blatant "tell-it-how-it-is" attitude is refreshing. I'm pretty sure most anyone who reads this book can relate to Jack and his way of thinking.

This book has the undercurrent plot cheese but it's okay because it's cute. I love that this book wasn't about Libby rushing to lose weight so she could fit into the "popular" crowd or Jack being a complete tool and getting away with it just because he has a medical condition. This book was about accepting who you are and embracing your flaws.

"I'm going to do something with my life because I believe in myself. I may not know what that is yet, but that's only because I'm limitless. Can you say the same?"

Literally the only thing that I could possibly complain about this book is the cursing but if that doesn't bother you then you're good. If you don't like cursing in novels, I personally didn't think it was as much as it could have been (which is a good thing), then it can either put you off of this book or you'll love it but only wish the cursing was kaput.

Holding Up the Universe was flawlessly written and most definitely a laugh out loud book. I recommend Holding Up the Universe for anyone who wants to read a feel good book.

***I received a hardcover copy of this novel from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.***

Unlike All the Bright Places, this book did not make me cry. It did, however, make me feel incredibly sad. It was a reminder of how horrible people can be to each other. We judge based on looks and everything, and this book was harsh reminder to not do that.

I really enjoyed the characters. Libby is a character I envy. She had it rough yes, but how she came out of it in the end. She had courage, and even in her weakest moments she was stronger than a lot of people. Jack was a tougher one for me to like, but I suppose in the end that makes sense. Their relationship made me smile and I was constantly wishing for all good things for them.

In the end, this story had so many real world meanings. The importance of friendship and family, the importance of being true to yourself. Though I wasn't a sobbing mess during this one, it made me ache and made me want to be a better person

This is an engaging read - I have been in a bit of a YA kick lately, and this one fits nicely with that trend. Told in two different voices – both of these teen narrators have some issues that they are continuing to deal with. Libby, once dubbed “America’s Fattest Teen”, is out in the world after her home being cut away to get her out. Jack meanwhile continues to struggle with his own self-diagnosed face-blindness. Libby returns to high school after being homeschooled for years, while Jack struggles to keep his secrets from destroying his life. When the two storylines converge, their relationship takes some surprising turns! Overall, it is a rather sweet book – filled with characters that authentically come to life and are (for the most part) easy to like.

This is my first experience with Niven’s writing – and I am curious to see what other topics for teens she has handled. I like the structure of this book, and I really appreciate it starting with Libby in a healthier place – while she doesn’t have as dynamic of a character arc because of that, the whole drama of being housebound works better as backstory. It’s a fast-paced read!

Welcome to the book whose original synopsis broke the internet. (seriously look it up if you don't know what i'm talking about) This book was wonderful! Jennifer is a beautiful author who writes an even more beautiful YA book. This book hit home to me as i read about Libby and her emotions of going through being labeled as the fattest teen. There is so much raw emotion in this book that i was left with many tears. The ending is a bit predictable but overall still worth reading every page. These characters really grow and you can see how cruel some people can be and how beautiful others are despite their differences. Jennifer is an amazing writer and really lays out a good scene! Jennifer shows us many stereotypes but does it in a way with out being too over the top. This book is beautiful even against all the negative initial blurbing. (PS thanks Jennifer for handling it in a classy way) This beautiful heart wrenching tale gets 4 stars from me! Thanks to BFB's for this copy in exchange for my open and honest review.

I read this book early on and I loved the relationship between Libby and Jack. I loved these characters individually and thought their relationship was honest and heartfelt. Each of them had extreme personal struggles they had to overcome – Libby being overweight, Jack not being able to recognize faces, yet because of their differences, they are brought together.

Personally, I had a bit of a hard time with the rodeo part, maybe it was because I didn’t want to believe that something that cruel and horrible could really happen in a school, maybe because I was fortunate enough to have never experienced something like that during high school. But maybe I grew up in a better world than Libby did, or I just avoided the bullies, I’m not sure.

The thing about Jennifer Niven’s writing is that she writes real characters, and her novels are deep and thoughtful, full of emotion and all sorts of feels. Holding Up The Universe will touch everyone’s hearts and is a book for all – Niven brings all sorts of people together to show that the world is a big place but there’s room for everyone, and that we shouldn’t be so judgmental and unaccepting of others.

I listened to the Audible version. EVERYONE SHOULD READ THIS BOOK. It will teach you, or at least open your mind to, what other's are feeling, going through, living. If you listen carefully (or read thoroughly), you might even hear (or read about) yourself in this book. The author paints a realistic picture of high school life, as sucky as it is. But she also has splashes of hope within that picture, and if the real life could mimic her portrait, then maybe it'd be a better place. Ms. Niven paints scenes that are unexpected. You will expect her to go one way - the road most traveled, the cliched way - but she doesn't...on more than one occasion. Holding Up the Universe made my heart happy, it made it sad, but mostly it made me happy to be alive, and I hope Ms. Niven's message is shouted throughout the universe. It is THAT remarkable. This book should NOT go unread, and I think every high school should have it on their To Be Read by ALL students list.

After her mother died when she was 11-years-old, Libby Strout felt so sad and burdened with grief that only food could lessen her pain. Her father used cooking to assuage his own grief, and the combination soon caused her to balloon to 653 pounds.

Jack Masselin spent his life building things from scraps, but nothing could help him build up his own life as everyone, including his own brothers and parents, were strangers.

Libby and Jack meet under unusual circumstances, gradually learning to depend upon each other for mutual support. As high school life threatens to tear them down, the two of them face their worst fears in order to move forward.

Through alternate chapters Libby and Jack tell their stories of feeling different for circumstances out of their control, while learning the importance of unity in the face of diversity.

Recommended for ages 14 and older.

I was fully prepared to hate this book as I had seen quite a few mixed reviews touching upon some legitimate issues within the plot of the story, however, I found myself quite enjoying Holding Up the Universe. I think I benefitted from being one of the few individuals who had not read the author's previous popular novel because it seems that it set some different expectations for what kind of book this was going to be.

Both of the characters in the novel are going through high school on what I would call "hard mode". Libby, struggling to re-find her place in the school landscape after being homebound for a number of reasons and Jack struggling to hold on to his place in high school while keeping his mysterious condition a secret from almost everyone in his life. While I agree that certain moments come across as overused tropes rather than genuine scenes.

This is a teen romance novel. Libby, an overweight girl with panic attacks, gets bullied but stands up for herself and has a big heart. Jack has Prosopagnosia, a condition that keeps him from being able to recognize faces. Libby loves to dance and Jack likes building things. Jack keeps his disability a secret and copes the best he can until one day he confides in Libby. Libby and Jack start off on rocky ground but as they get to know each other, their relationship changes.

Although this book is very predictable, it is a good story that has a good message for teens and clearly shows how bullied people feel. I never heard of “face-blindness” before reading this so it was interesting to learn about it through Jack’s experiences. Lilly was an interesting character too with the ability to forgive. The story was told by both Lilly and Jack in alternating chapters. I would recommend this for teens.

Describe Holding Up The Universe in three words: Honest. Heart-breaking. Hopeful.

This book sent me on a roller coaster of emotion from the Author's Note in the front of the book explaining how she drew on personal and family experience to write this story, right up to the last page.

I laughed, I cried and I cheered!

Jennifer Niven does a great job of portraying these characters--their stories, struggles and victories--in a relatistic and relatable way. And Libby and Jack are the kind of characters who stick with you long after you finish reading their story. The message this book leaves with the reader is one of self-love, confidence, and seeing people for who they really are.

"Life is too short to judge others. It is not our job to tell someone what they feel or who they are. Why not spend some time on yourself instead?" ~ Libby Strout (hashtagCanIGetAnAmen)

Read it.

This book was a real kick in the heart. Some of it felt like the author had looked into my teen years and write my feelings down. I really love Libby and how hard she was trying to live again. She was fierce and fabulous and also sacred and often sad.
Jack was such an honest depiction of a teenager. Yes he had a much more significant issue than most teens do but his ability to be a complete douche and then do something sweet showed the complexity of emotion that happens during those years. He was not always any one thing and the way that he started to change after his first encounter with Libby was realistic. We are never only one thing and I loved seeing these characters struggle with their feelings and behavior and changing.
The writing style was easy to sink into and I really liked the story.

I enjoyed this book. The main characters weren't the typical characters in YA books. So that was refreshing. I think there is a good message in accepting who you are, and being who you are, and not being ashamed of that. Bullies exist. The older I get and see it (with a kid in middle school and one in elementary school), I wonder what I did, said or defended when I was in middle school or high school. It's one thing I really try to teach my own kids: Treat others the way you'd want to be treated. and if you EVER see people being mean to someone else, say something. Say something to the one that the hurtful things are being said to, and say something to the mean person that it isn't nice. No one knows other people's struggles. This book made me think of all that.

This book was not that great. I found it to be accurate in depicting what bullying is like in high school for those who do not fit the cookie cutter image that is set forth by society. But, other than that, I didn't find it to be intriguing. Libby and the other main character Jack are forced together by counseling sessions and community service after an altercation at school. I found it weird that Libby ends up falling for Jack after he completely humiliated her and insulted her. It just didn't seem right. Jack is 'face blind' and can't recognize people, even family. That was an interesting disorder to learn about, though. The redeeming quality of this book is Libby's letter towards the end which is very raw and real about her feelings.

I struggle a lot with stories about fat girls, where the story is that they're fat. I came into this book pretty skeptical. I will say that Libby's story is pretty wonderful, in so far as Libby doesn't ever compromise herself. She's a character you want to spend time with. You root for her. I also liked her relationship with her dad a lot.

As someone who struggles with a mild version of face blindness, seeing Jack's story on the page spoke directly to a place inside of me that I didn't know craved this. You never forget Jack's struggle. Niven's prose is a constant, gentle reminder of what it's like being in Jack's head, and the anxiety and effort that comes with that.

I think I liked it more than All the Bright Places, which I feel like is more well known. Also, the audio production was wonderful.

I remember when this novel was first announced there was a lot of controversy surrounding it. Before I noticed the controversy, I was excited about this story and then my excitement dimmed because I read the comments of others. I finally read the book and I enjoyed it. There were probably fatphobic things in it but being a fat girl I related to this story so much. The needing to lose weight for health reasons but also learning to be comfortable in your own skin. I loved this story!

I do not have face-blindness so I cannot say how accurately Jack's part of the story was but it was still relatable.

Loved this book! Loved the characters and the story. I think this is a great book for high school students to read. The topic covers what happens every single day to people, whether in high school or the "real" world, pranks and jokes that are meant to be bring people down. Bullying is used so much now and has become a buzzword and everyone thinks it covers all of it. The way this topic is covered is amazing. A strong character in this book always shows there are ways of dealing with people who constantly like to put people down or make jokes at the expense of others. It was real and touching.

This was very different than I thought. I had seen a bit of the controversy surrounding this book leading up to its release and I was a little worried to step into this authors world. I should have given the author a bit more credit, because this was a very good read with a strong message.

Jennifer Niven gives her readers a character they can relate to. Libby is someone I will never forget and I found myself wishing I had this book when I was in high school. Growing up is tough and I appreciate this author showing the harder aspects of growing up. It's not all rainbows and popular girls and this story shows there's another side that is just as amazing.

I enjoyed this story as well and it gave me so many feels and emotions. It was a real look at life and I can't wait to see what Jennifer Nivens comes out with next!

I have battled weight and body image issues my whole life. I’d say, between the ages of 10 and perhaps even into my early 20s (maybe even today) the scale and mirrors were my enemies. I can’t recall a time in my youth when I was satisfied with my appearance.
This is what drew me to the characters in the book Holding Up the Universe by Jennifer Niven. Libby, an obese teenager, lost her mother at a young age and ate her feelings. Her struggle with weight defines her perception of herself and others. However, her strength grows throughout the book as she seeks to accept who she was and value who she has become. I guess, in Libby, I saw someone whose courage I wish I had at an earlier age so as to be less self-conscious. I’m a high school English teacher who reads a number of Young Adult books so I can recommend them to my students. Often times these books address issues like rape, depression, substance abuse - none of which have I battled myself - so I found it refreshing (I guess) to read about someone who was more of a mirror of myself, at least whom I used to be.
While I was shocked by the egregious acts of bullying and ridicule displayed by students at the school in this book - at one point, a game called “Fat Girl Rodeo” is concocted, where boys jump on large girls and try to hang on for as long as possible - I loved the lesson of kindness that many of the characters learned. In an age where going viral through "shockery" and mockery have seemingly become more appealing, Holding Up The Universe reminds us all of the power of kindness to one another and kindness to ourselves, which is something I wish I would have done when I was younger.

Wow. This book really touched me. It was amazing to read about the face recognition. I never knew it existed. The complex way that the author worked the hero and heroine's issues together was truly masterful. I do not usually read YA, and this book was a gift to me. What a gift it truly was. Everything from the mean girls to the amazing strength of the heroine really resonated with me. So many people struggle with weight and she expressed all the feelings so well. A wonderful, beautiful story. Can't wait to read more from this author.

Libby Strout and Jack Masselin not the usual type of teens. Both are very different but in some ways the same. They are both teens attending there local high school MVB High. They take on different lives and live on the opposite sides of town with totally different looks and actions but will there two worlds collide and help them find each other or will it totally pull them apart.

Libby Strout was called the fattest teen but recently she’s the new girl going to MVB High. With her hopes to start a new life and make friends to start her new life. But still over weight nobody sees past her 324 lbs. Ever since her mothers death she has taken on eating as her way of grieving. But can she move passed by then girl that was shy, over weight, and had been cut out of her house.

Jack Masselin the guy who everyone knows but he doesn’t know anyone. He’s a intriguing young man and can rebuild and recreate anything, but he can’t understand his own brain. Trying to discover people and his self, he always is telling himself be cool, be funny, lay low, but don’t let anyone know something is wrong with him.

A love story about a boy and a girl from different worlds, both different, but the same in many ways. When they meet in their high school they are surprised at each other by letting them open up to each other.

As life goes on will they make it together, will they survive, will they love each other. Will the universe pull them apart or will they.

Another stunning turn from Jennifer Niven. Everyone thinks they got Libby Strout’s number, AKA "America's Fattest Teen." But there’s so much more to Libby than simply what you see is what you get. This is true of Jack, too. Yes, he's hot and athletic but there’s more to him that all that swagger. Plus, no one knows that he can't recognize faces. Even his his mom and dad are strangers to him. So he keeps himself at a distance from everyone until a dare throws him smack-dab into Libby’s weird and sparkling orbit.

After All the Bright Places I was all set to ugly cry it out, and there are many poignant moments, yet this book also has a lot of humor and characters who are real and human and funny and weird in the best way. You really root for them from the rip, especially Libby who is everything.

I want a sequel. Not because we’re left with little to no answers but because I want more of Libby and Jack. I want to see where they go and how they handle it all.
Libby was so funny! So amazing! So inspirational! So real!
What I’ve found with characters with “heavy weight issues” is they ramble. A lot. Which could make the plot boring and the point lost in translation. Like an annoying broken record. All words and not plot. Not with Holding up the universe. No, it was the perfect amount of character musing and movement. The author never got stuck on one point for 10 chapters. Maybe it’s because Jack had his own problems in the novel. Either way there was balance and flow.
I usually stay away from YA novels because the voices of the youth grate on me sometimes. But I found a strength and maturity to Libby that now I am looking through the YA section more often without my usual judgmental scoffing.
I’m happy to have bought my own copy because this is definitely on my reread list.

Book #82 Read in 2016
Holding Up the Universe by Jennifer Niven

Jack is a popular high school student who has a secret--he suffers from a disorder of face blindness--he cannot recognize faces of anyone, including his family. Libby was once so overweight that her house had to be cut into for her to be able to leave it for medical care. The unlikely duo work their way to couplehood, hitting quite a few bumps in the way. Told in alternating chapters of Jack and Libby, this book is raw with emotion and real. These two characters are ones that readers will care about and root for to get a happy ending. High school students will love this book. I received a copy of this book from the store Vine in exchange for a honest review.

Powerful, moving, and made me cry, Niven's second YA contemporary is lighter than her first. Libby and Jack are not as heavy/intense as Finch and Violet and for that I am grateful. I really adored All the Bright Places and looked forward to HOLDING UP THE UNIVERSE. I was lucky that I love love loved this book too. I felt for Libby who loved to dance but was mercilessly teased for her weight. :( I felt for Jack, too. But something about Libby SPOKE to me. I am a skinny girl but I got Libby; I got how she felt. She had quit dancing because of the mean girls and I could relate. But i LOVED her positive outlook and the way she stood up to them. BUT ANYWAY - read this book!!!!!

Holding Up The Universe … where do I start? I am probably going to rain on everyone’s parade because this is my biggest disappointment of 2016. I must be the only person in the world who hasn’t gone crazy over this book. I just don’t get the fuss and hype.

Is it good? Well, it’s not awful, but I didn’t find anything special about it. No spark. No fizz. It’s sweet, in a cheesy, patronising happily-ever-after, rainbow filled, unicorn dancing kind of way.
@crushingcinders

Unique in story and MC's. Truly refreshing young adult book not dealing with the typical average or beautiful teen filled with angst.

HOLDING UP THE UNIVERSE tackles two intensely different topics combined into one fantastic story: obesity and the misunderstood disorder, prosopagnosia, which is the inability to recognize faces. Civility, courage and character are the key ingredients for the main characters along with their faults which, like everyone, they have plenty.

A true must read young adult book for teenagers and adults alike.

Written by Jennifer Niven, published by Alfred A. KNopf.

#YA #diversity #lovethyself

I fell in love with Jack and Libby and you will too.

Jack and Libby are two high school students that I found to be incredibly vibrant. While they seem to be cut from different cloth when we first meet them, it isn't before long that we get to see how much in common they really have. Both characters take you on a soulful journey and author Jennifer Niven has taken great care to writing two young adults that embody both heart and grace.

This is a great YA contemporary that looks at love, family, acceptance, bullying, friendships and everything in between. I highly recommend it to everyone, you won't be sorry you picked this up!

Libby Stout, the heroine of the story is funny, strong and after overcoming the stigma of being “the fattest teen in America” she is ready to rejoin the real world. Jack Masselin, disguises himself everyday in his charming, cool-guy persona, but he is harboring a secret – he has prosopagnosia. He can’t recognize faces. So he has to bluff his way through every single day and it is mentally exhausting for him. The two are brought together by a spiteful prank called “Fat Girl Rodeo”. The story follows the two through counseling, detention and the friendship (dare I say romance) that follows.

Holding up the universe is uplifting. I enjoyed reading it.

I liked this book. I am only giving it four stars, because I feel that it was missing something.

While I loved Libby and her fierceness and her take no prisoners attitude, Jack was a little harder to feel a connection with. While I appreciated his struggle and his story, I just didn't find him that likable.

Overall, the book is very sweet, and I really enjoyed reading it.

This was a very good book, although it was filled with quite a bit of angst and turmoil of 2 high schoolers trying to find acceptance in a world where people might not be accepting, and realizing they might not need the acceptance after all. I listened to the audio version, and the narrators made you fall even more in love with the characters. Their voices were perfect for the book.

The tale told over and over again - Boy and girl meet, Boy betrays girl, boy then redeems himself. This book is a bit different because of the character depth and how much detail went into their stories/backgrounds. Libby has gained a lot of weight after the death of her mother and Jack has face blindness. Through a series of events they end up getting to know each other and form a very unlikely friendship. The book has a great ending.

I found this book to really help you see both Jack and Libby as real people, not just characters in a book.

I RECEIVED THIS ARC IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.

Can I give a million stars?

This book was beautiful from beginning to end! I couldn't tear myself away from it even if I tried. It was just so gripping, so quirky and so unique!

I'm so glad that I was able to get this an ARC from Jennifer because I've been wanting to get back into contemporary reads and this has definitely helped me out. This is the kind of heartbreaking, powerful and emotional contemporary read that should be on everyone's shelf.

I wish I knew the words to give this book the justice it deserves. First off, wow. Just. WOW. The characters Libby and Jack are so very relatable that I often find myself reading their feelings and thoughts as if straight out of my own diary. I love the way it's raw, and real and everything that life is is the sense that's it's tragic at times, hard to understand most times, and yet beautiful and unforgettable as well. The confidence Libby has is infectious and makes you want to stand up and cheer for her because you know the hardships it took to reach that point. And as for Jack, well, i think we all feel a little alone while in a crowd of people sometimes, for some, like me....most times. Thank you Jennifer Niven for this gem I'll treasure the rest of my life.

While there was some controversy with the initial synopsis (more fat-shaming focused than what the story's actually about), the blurb's been rewritten and fits the story much better. Libby is trying to overcome a lot of challenges in her life and she's doing it positively, with her head held high. I can see a lot of teens understanding where she's coming from and what she's having to go through (maybe not to the extreme of Libby). Really liked the writing and the characters in this story.

Holding Up The Universe talks about the different social (and even personal) problems that the youth today experience.

This is not just another romance story set in a high school wherein the perfect one falls for the loser one. No. It absolutely is not. This is so much more than that. I loved Jennifer Niven more because of this novel.

Holding Up The Universe is a book about yourself, about your friends, about the people you thought were your friends, about your family and everyone and everything in between. This book had me shed some tears, especially the parts about dealing with your own conflicts with yourself and about dealing with family problems.

Aside from the drama, there are also really inspiring and fun parts. Libby may be called as America's Fattest Teen, but I can say that she is also America's Most Confident and Beautiful Teen. Jack may not recognize faces, but he recognizes very well the feelings of the people around him.

I love how kind the two main characters are. I love how this book talks about the things that should be talked about in our society, but we are afraid to talk about. I love how it can boost the confidence of its readers.

Holding Up The Universe is an eye-opener for everyone.

**I received a review copy from the publisher. This does not affect my opinion about the book.**

i was expecting to be better than it was. I think because of All the bright places having such a huge impact on me, I put too much faith in this one. It didn't hold up . While it wasnt bad, i guess you should read it before reading all the bright places. This one seemed very forced somehow and the main character(Libby) kind of annoyed me with her massive insecurity and lack of self love. I understood her but at the same time I felt she should have cared more about herself. Sometimes she was cool but other times her insecuroty became irritating. it wasnt bad but it definitely didnt hold up ot the hope I had for it.

I applaud Niven for tackling the sensitive issue of weight, but I don't think she approached it in the best way.

SPOILERS:
Let's consider the basic plot: Jack, afflicted with face blindness, develops feelings for Libby, an obese teen, who reciprocates those feelings.

People with face blindness often rely on other features to identify a person: hair, clothing, hair, etc. To what degree does Libby's size contribute to Jack's ability to recognize her? If size is an identifying characteristic, what message is Niven sending about overweight people? More important, how much of Libby's own identity is based on her size?

As another reviewer noted, Niven should have focused on one topic or the other. A novel chronicling an overweight teen's foray into dating and meeting an understanding, sensitive guy would have been more uplifting. (I used to be overweight in my early teens and yearned for a boyfriend. I read many books, drinking in the perfect romances, thinking that as a fat girl I didn't deserve a "normal" guy.)

As for face blindness, Bone Gap by Laura Ruby is a breathtakingly beautiful, haunting, and poignant account of an extraordinary boy with the condition. That book is HIGHLY recommended.

I wasn't sure what to expect but this was a genuinely authentic YA read. It didn't seem fake and the romance seemed real, not just a prop for a storyline. I am 33 years old and have also suffered weight battles. Not "America's fattest teen" but the bullying and sometimes isolation were all real to me as well. I like that this book tackles those issues. Give it a chance, it goes by quick!

If you ever need your heart ripped to shreds and then slowly put back together, read this book. I love Jack and Libby with all my heart and wish I had the confidence of Libby. She is a superstar and love who she is and what she stands for. Jack is a very dynamic character, he grows in leaps and bounds throughout the novel. I love Jennifer's alternating narrator/chapter format. Loved this book. Readers of all ages will enjoy!

I absolutely love these characters and wish they were real and in my life. They are so well-developed that I feel like they are part of me now. The descriptive language is intensely, beautifully poetic. This novel is truth and hope and perfection.

2.5 stars. I'm conflicted about this one. The good part is that the takeaway is to be kind, and we all need more kindness in our lives. BUT. There is a lot of problematic stuff here on race and body type and mental illness. So, in general, diversity in books is something to shoot for, but if you're taking on issues that are outside your personal experience, you have to be extra, extra careful to avoid the minefield. As a thin, white girl, I'm not the best one to speak to these issues, but I am open to the conversation and to listening to grievances of the affected groups and learning to be more sensitive to them.

All the Bright Places is my favorite book. It's beautiful and since I read that I had high expectations for holding up the universe. My high expectations weren't quite met??I think all the bright places had a more solid plot and important message while holding up the universe wasn't very filled with a good plot and was kind of a boring read. However I loved the character of Libby sprout and jacks propognasia was unique and it brought diverse people with different troubles and problems together.

I liked everything about this book. I liked the way the chapters went back and forth between Libby and Jack. I loved Libby's honesty. I think she would be the best real person. I love the way the author writes.

I'd never heard of face-blindness until I picked up this book. I'd certainly never thought of someone being so large that they can't leave their house. But, both things happen in life and how this book puts these characters together is unique and very interesting to the reader. I even got up early on a Sunday morning to finish it! Highly suggest this book if you like the genre!

I absolutely LOVED this book! There is so much honesty about topics others are scared to mention, including obesity, peer pressure, and bullying. Jennifer Niven is a truly amazing YA fiction writer and I cannot wait to read more of her work! I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of "All The Bright Places," as well!

Good read. Made me happy, and the writing was good. The characters were very interesting and lovable. Loved the use of lists!!
Towards the end of the book it got a bit cliche, but hey, cliche is cliche because it works.

I loved Jack and Libby as characters. This story is engaging, a fast read and perfect for anyone who needs a lift. There are moments when you roll your eyes a bit, but it’s YA Lit—That’s part of the genre. ?

As a high school teacher and the husband of a wonderful wife that struggles with anxiety I found this book moving and inspiring. I cried for the characters, laughed with them, and yes, cringed. Enjoy a great read.

This book was incredible. Seeing things through Libby's perspective is refreshing and would absolutely benefit anyone struggling to be seen for who they are, rather than what they look like. Niven's characters are wonderfully developed throughout the novel and their minds are an excellent place to be. I highly recommend this to any young adult who feels like they are, indeed, holding up the universe.

I purchased this book as a gift . The gift recipient did not finish the book as the language was inappropriate for a twelve year old girl. I mailed that book back for a refund per refund instructions. The book was received in Lexington, Kentucky on January 2, 2018. I am still waiting for my refund. Thank You.

Profanity, bathroom talk, and disgusting sexual comments all through made me wish that someone would have mentioned this in the customer reviews so that I would never have purchased this immoral book. What on earth has this country come to with such language? God have mercy on us all!.

If you want to promote profanity to your teenage children, encourage them read this book.
If you want your teenage daughter to get pregnant in highschool, encourage her read this book.
This book is intended for teenagers but the author wasn't afraid of using all sorts of profanity in this book.