Life and death is something that is so relevant, but not a topic that is often discussed, especially in current literature. Everything All at Once by Katrina Leno brings this to the surface. Reflecting on Leno's third book, I have not read her other two works, but I want to especially after reading this book.
Everything All at Once follows the life of Lottie Reaves as she deals with anxiety, panic attacks, the death of her beloved aunt, and finishing up high school -- all while following a set of letters left behind for her by her aunt. When her aunt leaves Lottie some letters, she finds some interesting tasks in them. This book is not only about the importance of dealing with the struggles in life, but learning to get out of your comfort zone and grow.
Leno really takes a great outlook on this book because she chooses to write about a lot of concepts that do not get touched on a lot. Talking about anxiety and panic attacks in young adult literature is slowly becoming more prominent, but it hasn't been as common. Leno has done a fantastic job of writing this book in a way that does not belittle or misjudge the way anxiety and panic attacks can affect someone. In truth, she actually gives a great insight into how it can affect someone, especially when something drastic occurs in their life. On top of this, Leno adds great complexity to this when she creates her character in her senior year of high school with a setting close to graduation. She expertly shows what it feels like to be finishing up high school in a way that is relatable to everyone. Leno also performs exceptionally by showing the struggles of flirting with someone and trying to figure out if they like you back or what is going on with them.
Overall, Leno did an amazing job of writing this book and truly telling a story. I was unable to put it down; I ended up reading most of this book in a day. The storyline of this book is so unique. The fact that Leno bases her character's story and major themes off of letters from the dead aunt, who is trying to help out her niece, is so unique and out of the box. Yet this factor is what makes it so interesting and such a wonderful page turner. You're curious to find out more and what Aunt Helen has asked Lottie to do in the next letter.
If you are looking for a new, exciting, and heart-stopping book, go and pick up a copy of Everything All at Once. This book is truly different from any other book that I have read.The characters and storyline are so well written that they pop off the page. Plus the ending might surprise you, but it really is a great surprise and a great book.
Happy Reading!
