The Truth About Forever

Dessen, Sarah. 2004. THE TRUTH ABOUT FOREVER. New York: Viking. ISBN 0670036390 [Suggested Grade Levels 9-12]

REVIEW
Grieving the death of her father, Macy Queen buries her emotions behind a mask of perfection not even allowing her friends and family to see her real self. However, what Macy learns in THE TRUTH ABOUT FOREVER is that “even the smallest fragments can’t help but make a whole” (129). When Macy lets go of her need to be perfect and to always be in control, she learns what it means to be free. She learns to just be. “When I was with him I didn’t have to be perfect, or even try for perfect. He already knew my secrets, the things I’d kept hidden from everyone else, so I could just be myself. Which shouldn’t have been such a big deal. But it was” (187).

THE TRUTH ABOUT FOREVER is an honest examination of one girl’s reaction to the death of her father. Through the character of Macy, Dessen shows that there are many aspects to the grieving process. The novel shows the key role open communication plays in the healing process.

CONNECTIONS
Have readers imagine having a conversation with Macy. What advice would they give her?

THE TRUTH ABOUT FOREVER is beautifully written and most of the action is in the dialogue. Have readers share favorite passages from the book. Perhaps some would even be willing to pair up and give dramatic readings of their favorite scenes.

RELATED BOOKS
Other books by Sarah Dessen:
Dessen, Sarah. DREAMLAND. ISBN 0142300675
Dessen, Sarah. KEEPING THE MOON. ISBN 0142401765
Dessen, Sarah. SOMEONE LIKE YOU. ISBN 0142401773
Dessen, Sarah. THAT SUMMER. ISBN 0142401722

Other books about grief:
Swanson, Julie. GOING FOR THE RECORD. ISBN 0802852734
Zeises, Lara M. BRINGING UP THE BONES. ISBN 0385730012

Other books about perfectionism, self-perception or self-esteem:
Mackler, Carolyn. VEGAN VIRGIN VALENTINE. ISBN 0763621552
Marchetta, Melina. SAVING FRANCESCA. ISBN 0375829822

By Becky Laney