Robyn Schneider : THE BEGINNING OF EVERYTHING

Warning! Are you ready for a different approach to coming-of-age novels? Good. Because this book is exactly what you are looking for.

THE BEGINNING OF EVERYTHING is a contemporary YA novel written by the lovely and very talented Robyn Schneider.


This book has created a lot of buzz in the book lover's sphere straight after it has been published. I have been meaning to read it for quite some time, but an opportunity has arrived in the form of mine and Carpe Librum Girl's monthly book club on Instagram - ZC Book Club*. So I have finally found out what is this well known novel is about.

*****

Golden boy Ezra Faulkner believes everyone has a tragedy waiting for them—a single encounter after which everything that really matters will happen. His particular tragedy waited until he was primed to lose it all: in one spectacular night, a reckless driver shatters Ezra’s knee, his athletic career, and his social life.

No longer a front-runner for Homecoming King, Ezra finds himself at the table of misfits, where he encounters new girl Cassidy Thorpe. Cassidy is unlike anyone Ezra’s ever met, achingly effortless, fiercely intelligent, and determined to bring Ezra along on her endless adventures.

But as Ezra dives into his new studies, new friendships, and new love, he learns that some people, like books, are easy to misread. And now he must consider: if one’s singular tragedy has already hit and everything after it has mattered quite a bit, what happens when more misfortune strikes? 

*****

Let's talk about the wonderful edition first. I own the paperback published in July 2014 by Katherine Tegan Books. 335 pages long divided into 33 chapters. The edition has a beautiful and eye-catching blue and black design. Bold lettering announcing the title of the book. There is a little drawing of a ride in amusement park which I think symbolises the roller-coaster ride which a life can be. Simple design, but very effective. 

The story is written from Ezra's point of view. The writing is engaging. Modern. Funny. Sarcastic at times. But very relate able. It draws you in and won't let go. I think this book is one of the exceptions when I do actually enjoy reading a story from a boy/man's point of view. Possibly this is due to the fact that this novel can be categorised as a coming-of-age story. 

It's about change when you least expected and faith guiding you to your planned destiny. Ezra thought that he had it all planned out. He was popular. Had a good prospect on becoming a well-know athlete. He had the girl every one wanted. But then an accident happened and Ezra was forced to re-valuate the important things in life. And that is what is important in this novel. No, it's not a love story. If you are after a love story with happy ending where everyone ends up with the person they want to be, put the book down. This book is different. A Unique view into the life of a teenager on the point when he is becoming an adult. And happy ending isn't guaranteed. Let's just say that Cassidy has bigger issues than Ezra...  This is  a tale of friendship and becoming a person you have always meant to be. It's about faith screwing everything which is normal to you, turning your life upside down... throwing new great experiences and showing you that the life is worth living not just surviving. You don't have to do what is expected of you. You don't need to be what your parents want you to be. You can be anyone. You can do anything. Don't let them stop you! Make the most of what is given to you. Even if it's a stupid accident which shattered your knee and you cannot chase a ball with a racket anymore (apparently they call it tennis !!). It's about the people in your life. The ones who support you no matter what. They don't judge. They don't try to bring you down. They harness the light and life inside you. 


So yes, I have enjoyed Ezra's story. Even though he got his heart broken. He got he best friend back and brand new life full of possibilities. 

Thank you Robyn. I admired your story from start to finish. It's been a pleasant read and made me think of a lot of things in my life. 

*Find out more about ZC Book Club by following this link : #ZCbookclub