The Year We Fell Down summary

Dealing with Unexpected Change

In The Year We Fell Down by Sarina Bowen, we meet Corey Callahan, a freshman at Harkness College who is excited to start her college life as a member of the women's hockey team. However, her plans are shattered when she suffers a serious injury during a game, leaving her paralyzed from the waist down. Corey is forced to adjust to a new reality, one that includes a wheelchair and a dorm room specifically designed for people with disabilities.

Struggling to come to terms with her new life, Corey finds solace in her friendship with her neighbor, Adam Hartley, a talented hockey player who is also dealing with a life-altering injury. Despite their different personalities, Corey and Hartley form a deep connection, bonding over their shared experiences and the challenges they face. As they navigate their way through their new lives, they discover that they are not as alone as they thought.

Overcoming Struggles and Forming Bonds

As the story progresses, Corey and Hartley support each other through their respective recoveries. Corey learns to navigate the world in a wheelchair and manages to maintain her independence. She also discovers a new passion in photography, using it as a means to express herself and see the world in a different light. Hartley, on the other hand, grapples with the loss of his hockey career and the fear of never being able to play again.

Despite their struggles, Corey and Hartley form a strong bond, and their friendship gradually develops into something deeper. They both find comfort in each other's company and share moments of joy and laughter, proving that unexpected circumstances can lead to unexpected friendships.

Exploring New Beginnings

As Corey and Hartley begin to accept their new realities, they also start to explore new beginnings. Corey takes a leap of faith and decides to move out of the accessible dorms, despite the challenges it presents, to experience a more typical college life. Hartley, too, begins to open up about his fears and insecurities, allowing himself to hope for a future beyond his injury.

However, their journey towards recovery is not without its setbacks. Corey faces prejudice and insensitivity from her peers, while Hartley struggles with the idea of being defined by his injury. Despite these challenges, they continue to support each other, demonstrating the strength and resilience that comes from their friendship.

A Heartfelt Journey of Love and Acceptance

As their final year at Harkness College approaches, Corey and Hartley find themselves falling in love. Their relationship deepens as they share their fears, hopes, and dreams with each other. They learn to accept themselves and each other, not despite their injuries, but because of them.

In The Year We Fell Down, Sarina Bowe beautifully illustrates the journey of two individuals overcoming adversity and finding love in unexpected places. Corey and Hartley's story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of acceptance. Their journey is not just about recovering from physical injuries but about learning to embrace life in all its forms, no matter the obstacles.