Why We Broke Up

Author: Daniel Handler

Summary:

I'm telling you why we broke up, Ed. I'm writing it in this letter, the whole truth of why it happened. Min Green and Ed Slaterton are breaking up, so Min is writing Ed a letter and giving him a box. Inside the box is why they broke up. Two bottle caps, a movie ticket, a folded note, a box of matches, a protractor, books, a toy truck, a pair of ugly earrings, a comb from a motel room, and every other item collected over the course of a giddy, intimate, heartbreaking relationship. Item after item is illustrated and accounted for, and then the box, like a girlfriend, will be dumped.

My Review:

First picking this book up, I had hoped it would be good. Being very familiar with Daniel Handler's (Lemony Snicket) writing style, I had hoped he might write a rather enjoyable young adult novel. I will say that I did love the writing style. I did love the fun setup of this book, with short chapters and fun pictures. I would recommend it, but only if you are comfortable with whatever goes in your novel reading. I did like that when it came to the more sensual matters, the scenes were not as explicit as they could have been. So great writing style, interesting plot, but not enough to make me say that I enjoyed it (kinda wished I hadn't bought it, either).

Characters:

The characters were very interesting, with specific personalities and traits. They weren't flat so to speak. I must say while I don't ever like the main character (and have to say sometimes they do act rather stupid and are very gullible) I found Min's knowledge of all things film entertaining. I did like her original cast of friends, who are so much more down to earth and real, rather than when she gets caught up in Ed's world. I felt Ed's sister was a fun, rather unusual character that brought more humor and life to the story, while Min's friend, Al, was such a great friend... no matter what or how many stupid things Min got herself into.

Plot:

The story is written with you following along as Min writes this rather long, farewell letter to her ex, Ed. They broke up, but she's making sure he knows why, and the entire book flashes back through their relationship. So it was a very fun, imaginative way to tell a story.

Disclaimers:

There was quite a bit of profanity throughout. There was alot of drinking, teen partying, and hints at people goofing off. There are a few bit more intense scenes, but when Min and Ed actually do have sex, we don't get a descriptive blow by blow. There is alot of derogative name calling  and uncomfortable topics brought up throughout.

Favorite Character: Al

Favorite Quote: 

"And anyway, Coach says coffee's bad for you."

"Unlike drinking every weekend."

"It stunts your growth."

"You're on the basketball team."

"And you can get addicted to caffeine."

"Yeah," I said with another sip, "you see them living under the overpass, caffeine addicts."

"Come on! And it tastes gross."

"How do you know. You pour it out."

~ Ed & Min

Recommended: Older teens & up

Over-all Rating: ★★★☆☆

~ Darkitty

***Later this week: Timeless***