One-line Summary:

Five Feet Apart is a heart-wrenching young adult novel that tells the story of two teenagers with cystic fibrosis who fall in love but must maintain a distance of six feet to prevent cross-infection.

The Story:

Five Feet Apart follows the lives of Stella Grant and Will Newman, two teenagers living with cystic fibrosis (CF) who meet while receiving treatment at the same hospital. Stella is an organized and optimistic girl who has been living with CF her entire life, while Will is a rebellious and artistic boy who has recently been diagnosed with a rare bacterial infection that limits his treatment options.

Despite their differences, Stella and Will form a deep connection and develop feelings for each other. However, their illness poses a significant obstacle to their relationship. People with CF are highly susceptible to cross-infection, and they must maintain a distance of at least six feet from each other to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria. This rule is particularly challenging for Stella and Will, who long to be close to each other but must constantly resist the temptation.

As Stella and Will navigate the complexities of their illness and their growing feelings, they find solace in their shared experiences and the support of their friends. They embark on a journey of self-discovery, learning to appreciate the small moments and finding hope in the face of adversity. Together, they challenge the boundaries imposed by their illness and strive to live life to the fullest.

The Themes:

Love and Sacrifice:

Five Feet Apart explores the power of love and the sacrifices people are willing to make for those they care about. Stella and Will’s relationship is a testament to the strength of their connection, as they navigate the challenges of their illness and the limitations it imposes on their lives. Their love for each other pushes them to find creative ways to bridge the physical distance between them, highlighting the lengths people will go to for love.

Living with Cystic Fibrosis:

The novel sheds light on the daily struggles and realities of living with cystic fibrosis. It educates readers about the disease, its symptoms, and the impact it has on the lives of those affected. Through Stella and Will’s experiences, readers gain a deeper understanding of the physical and emotional toll CF takes on individuals and their families.

Finding Hope in Difficult Times:

Despite the challenges they face, Stella and Will find hope and strength in each other and their shared experiences. They inspire each other to keep fighting and refuse to let their illness define them. The novel emphasizes the importance of finding hope and joy in the midst of difficult circumstances, reminding readers that even in the darkest times, there is always a glimmer of light.

Key Takeaways:

• Love has the power to transcend physical boundaries and overcome obstacles.
• Cystic fibrosis is a complex disease that affects individuals physically and emotionally.
• Hope and strength can be found even in the most challenging circumstances.

A Memorable Quote:

“I’m tired of living without really living.” – Stella Grant

Five Feet Apart is a poignant and emotional novel that explores the complexities of love, sacrifice, and living with cystic fibrosis. Through Stella and Will’s journey, readers are reminded of the power of human connection and the resilience of the human spirit. The book serves as a reminder to cherish every moment and find hope even in the most challenging of circumstances.