Chelsea Jacobs

When I closed the last page of this book I literally could only say, "Wow," because that was the only word I could find to describe how I felt after reading Happy to be Alive, Because. I sat on the couch and really thought about my life and how I take many people for granted, because they've always been there for me. How would I cope if they suddenly were not around and would never be again?

After reading Avery's story about the loss of her mother to cancer, I thought back to my own mother going in to Moffitt at the beginning of the year (New Years Eve) to have a tumor removed that was possibly cancerous. After the surgery, her doctor told us that it was the size of a small football-about 8 lbs.-and thankfully, was not cancerous, but I remember having to prepare myself to help her battle something that could possibly end her life. What would I do without my mom?

Reading about Avery's goal to follow through with the trip to Florida, her mother had planned, reminded me of what I tend to do when faced with situations I don't want to particularly deal with, and that is to flee/pretend it's not happening.

While Avery still deeply felt the loss of her mother, she was able to go through the grieving process with the help of her new friends-Rob, Major, and Lily. By hanging out with them and developing a routine that led to some semblance of a "normal" life, Avery was able to finally look past her grief into the life she wanted to live.

Despite a set-back when learning a dark secret Rob had kept hidden, Avery learned that she truly could be "Happy to be Alive," as she journaled each thing that led her to being happy on a daily basis. (Something I think I may pick up to help me through the crazy dark days.)

Happy to be Alive, Because was an enjoyable book. While it's geared towards young adults, I can see this book quickly gaining popularity with adults as well. It will definitely be one that I recommend to my students and teachers when they are going through tough times as well.

I received this book for free from LitFuse Publicity in exchange for an honest review.… (mehr)

It's pretty easy to get lost in this story, Avery is a sweet girl going through grief and heartache with the loss of her mother. She has the type personality where you can't help but like her immediately. The story itself is pretty emotional, the plot is really good.

Avery finds out it is possible to go with life, a trip to the beach...new friends...Rob was very patient and kind with her though he may be hiding something. It's a fun journey to be on with this cast of characters.

I love the idea of a happy to be alive because journal and may start one myself. Overall, a pretty good book for a first novel.… (mehr)