Title: How They Met, and Other Stories
Author: David Levithan
First published January 8, 2008
256 pages, Library Binding
ISBN: 9780375948862 (ISBN10: 0375948864)
Rating: 3.75
Overview
Looking for a heartwarming read that will make you believe in love again? Look no further than David Levithan’s How They Met, and Other Stories.
In this collection of 18 tales, Levithan explores all different types of love – from unrequited crushes to unbreakable bonds. Each story is a unique reminder of the power of this complex emotion that has the ability to both break and mend our hearts.
With his signature wit and sensitivity, Levithan proves that love truly knows no bounds. Whether you’re happily in love, heartbroken, or somewhere in between, How They Met, and Other Stories is the perfect read for anyone who believes in the magic of love.
About the Author
Meet David Levithan, an accomplished American author and editor of children’s books. In 2003, Levithan published his first young adult novel titled “Boy Meets Boy,” which was met with critical acclaim.
As the founding editor of PUSH, a Young Adult imprint under Scholastic Press, Levithan has played a vital role in shaping the literary landscape for young readers.
Editoral Review
David Levithan’s How They Met, and Other Stories is a beautiful collection of short stories that captures the essence of love and relationships in all their complexity. The author has established himself as a revered voice in the LGBTQ+ literature and his latest book is a testament to his prowess as a storyteller.
The book comprises eighteen distinct stories, each with an individual voice and perspective. The stories explore different facets of love, including heartbreaks, missed connections, and even supernatural interventions.
Through each story, Levithan manages to create vivid and memorable characters that stay with the reader long after the last page is turned. One of the major strengths of the book is Levithan’s writing style.
He writes with clarity and precision, creating characters and settings that feel real and tangible. He also employs a mix of narrative techniques, including first and second-person perspectives, which add depth and texture to the overall reading experience.
Several of the stories in the book touch upon culturally significant themes, such as homophobia, racism, and gender identity. Levithan treats these issues with sensitivity and respect, making it clear that love transcends all boundaries and barriers.
These stories are especially relevant today, as we continue to grapple with issues of discrimination and prejudice. Overall, How They Met, and Other Stories is a triumph of modern storytelling.
Levithan’s imaginative and thought-provoking stories are engaging, well-written, and emotionally resonant. The book is a must-read for anyone who appreciates great literature, regardless of their gender or sexual identity.
That being said, there are some minor limitations to the book. Some of the stories feel rushed or underdeveloped, leaving the reader wishing for more.
Additionally, the overarching theme of love can feel a bit repetitive at times. Nonetheless, these flaws are minor and do not detract from the overall quality of the book.
In conclusion, How They Met, and Other Stories is a gem of a book that deserves to be read and appreciated by a wide audience. It is a testament to the power of love and the resilience of the human spirit.
With its beautiful writing and poignant themes, this book and its author has rightfully earned its place in the upper echelons of modern literature. We give it 4.5 stars out of 5.