Review of More Happy Than Not (Deluxe Edition) by Adam Silvera
I stumbled upon More Happy Than Not, Adam Silvera’s debut novel, purely by chance, drawn in by its striking premise and the promise of a heart-wrenching exploration of identity, grief, and the search for happiness. I had heard whispers about Silvera’s lyrical prose and his ability to weave complex emotional landscapes, but nothing prepared me for the visceral journey that awaited me through the pages of this Deluxe Edition, which includes a new final chapter and an introduction by Angie Thomas.
At the heart of this gripping story is sixteen-year-old Aaron Soto, still reeling from the suicide of his father and grappling with his own feelings of despair and confusion. Set against the backdrop of a near-future Bronx, Silvera adeptly crafts a world where memories are not just experiences but commodities through the Leteo Institute, which promises to erase painful recollections. Through Aaron’s eyes, we explore profound questions about identity: What makes us who we are? Is it our memories, or something deeper?
What I found particularly striking was the raw honesty of Aaron’s character. His internal struggles resonate deeply as he navigates love, loss, and the budding realization of his sexuality. When he befriends Thomas, the new kid in the neighborhood, a shift occurs, igniting emotions that stir both joy and turmoil. Silvera handles these themes with remarkable nuance, making the reader palpably feel Aaron’s heartache—a testament to Silvera’s knack for character development. As one reviewer aptly highlighted, this book is not simply about acceptance, but the sometimes painful journey to self-discovery.
The pacing is masterfully crafted, drawing you into a steady build-up that crescendos into a shocking twist, making the emotional payoff all the more powerful. One particular line that struck me was, “Sometimes pain is so unmanageable that the idea of spending another day with it seems impossible.” Such reflections echo the unfiltered reality of adolescence and the sometimes heavy burden of our own histories.
"Happiness can be a difficult path," Aaron repeatedly learns, and in that struggle, Silvera manages to create a deeply engaging narrative that is as heartbreaking as it is hopeful. The introduction by Angie Thomas adds a thoughtful layer, positioning Silvera’s work within the wider context of contemporary discussions surrounding mental health and LGBTQ+ identities.
For those seeking a moving coming-of-age story interlaced with sci-fi elements, this Deluxe Edition of More Happy Than Not is a treasure. I wholeheartedly recommend it to readers who appreciate emotionally charged narratives and relatable characters grappling with complex issues. It’s a journey worth taking—a vivid reminder of the beauty and pain that shapes us.
My encounter with this book was not just a reading experience, but a heartfelt emotional expedition. It left a significant mark on my mind, a lasting reminder that understanding ourselves is as essential as the happiness we seek. So pick it up, find a cozy nook, and lose yourself in Aaron’s journey—you won’t regret it.
You can find More Happy Than Not (Deluxe Edition) here >>