One-line Summary:

“Everything, Everything” is a heartwarming young adult novel that tells the story of a teenage girl named Madeline who is confined to her home due to a rare illness, but finds love and adventure when a boy named Olly moves in next door.

Madeline’s Isolated Life:

Madeline Whittier, the protagonist of “Everything, Everything,” has spent her entire life inside her house due to a rare condition called Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID). This illness makes her allergic to the outside world, forcing her to live in a sterile environment. Madeline’s only companions are her mother, who is also her doctor, and her nurse, Carla. Despite her isolated existence, Madeline is intelligent, curious, and dreams of exploring the world beyond her walls.

The Arrival of Olly:

Madeline’s life takes an unexpected turn when a new family moves in next door. Among them is Olly Bright, a charming and adventurous boy who immediately catches Madeline’s attention. The two begin communicating through their windows and quickly develop a deep connection. Olly’s presence in Madeline’s life introduces her to a world of possibilities and makes her question the limitations she has always accepted.

A Risky Adventure:

As Madeline and Olly’s relationship grows, Madeline becomes increasingly willing to take risks for the sake of experiencing life outside her home. With Carla’s help, Madeline secretly ventures outside, breaking the rules her mother has set to protect her. She and Olly embark on thrilling adventures, exploring the city, going to the beach, and even taking a trip to Hawaii. Madeline’s newfound freedom and love for Olly give her the courage to challenge the boundaries of her illness.

Throughout their journey, Madeline discovers the importance of living in the present and cherishing every moment. She learns that life is not about the number of breaths you take, but the moments that take your breath away. Madeline’s story is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, love and the pursuit of happiness can conquer all.

Key Takeaways:

• Love can inspire us to take risks and challenge the limitations we face.
• Living in the present and embracing every moment is essential for a fulfilling life.
• Adversity can be overcome with courage, determination, and the support of loved ones.

“Sometimes you do things for the right reasons and sometimes for the wrong ones and sometimes it’s impossible to tell the difference.” – Nicola Yoon

In “Everything, Everything,” Nicola Yoon beautifully captures the essence of love, courage, and the desire for freedom. The novel reminds us of the importance of living life to the fullest, even in the face of adversity. Madeline’s journey from isolation to love and adventure serves as a powerful reminder that we should never take the world around us for granted.