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More Happy Than Not summary
Brief summary
More Happy Than Not by Adam Silvera is a thought-provoking novel that explores the complexities of identity and the struggle for happiness. Set in a near-future Bronx neighborhood, it follows the story of Aaron Soto as he grapples with his memories and desires.
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More Happy Than Not
Summary of key ideas
Exploring the Leteo Institute
In More Happy Than Not by Adam Silvera, we are introduced to Aaron Soto, a sixteen-year-old boy living in a Bronx neighborhood. Aaron is struggling with his father's recent suicide and the financial difficulties his family is facing. To cope with his pain, Aaron seeks out the Leteo Institute, a facility that offers a procedure to erase unwanted memories. Aaron is intrigued by the possibility of forgetting his father's death and the emotional turmoil that followed.
At the same time, Aaron is also dealing with his sexual orientation. He has been in a relationship with his girlfriend, Genevieve, but he is increasingly drawn to his new friend, Thomas. Aaron's growing feelings for Thomas confuse and scare him, especially in a society that is not entirely accepting of homosexuality. He begins to question whether undergoing the Leteo procedure could help him erase his unwanted feelings for Thomas.
Struggles with Identity and Acceptance
As Aaron grapples with his identity and the societal pressures around him, he becomes more and more determined to undergo the Leteo procedure. He believes that by erasing his memories, he can escape the pain of his father's death and the confusion of his sexuality. However, his plans are disrupted when Thomas, who has undergone the procedure himself, warns Aaron about its devastating side effects.
Despite Thomas' warning, Aaron decides to go through with the procedure. However, his resolve weakens when he discovers that Genevieve, too, has undergone the procedure to forget about her own traumatic experiences. Aaron realizes that the Leteo procedure is not a solution but a way of avoiding reality, and he begins to question the true nature of happiness.
Confronting Reality and Embracing Truth
As Aaron's scheduled procedure date approaches, he is forced to confront the harsh realities of his life. His mother, who has been struggling to make ends meet, is devastated by the news of his decision. Aaron also realizes that he cannot simply erase his feelings for Thomas, as they are an integral part of who he is. He understands that true happiness comes from accepting oneself and facing life's challenges head-on.
In a dramatic turn of events, Aaron attempts to take his own life, but he is saved in time. This near-tragic experience serves as a wake-up call for Aaron, prompting him to reevaluate his priorities. He decides to embrace his true self, including his feelings for Thomas, and to face his father's death and his own struggles with mental health.
Embracing Hope and Self-Acceptance
In the end, Aaron chooses not to undergo the Leteo procedure. He realizes that happiness is not about erasing painful memories or denying one's true identity, but about accepting oneself and finding hope in the face of adversity. Aaron's journey is a powerful exploration of identity, acceptance, and the complexities of human emotions.
As More Happy Than Not concludes, Aaron's story is not neatly tied up with a bow. Instead, it ends with a sense of hope and resilience. Aaron's experiences have taught him that life is not about being happy all the time, but about finding the strength to navigate its ups and downs. His story is a poignant reminder that true happiness comes from embracing our authentic selves, no matter how difficult that may be.
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What is More Happy Than Not about?
More Happy Than Not by Adam Silvera is a thought-provoking novel that explores themes of identity, memory, and happiness. Set in a near-future Bronx neighborhood, the story follows 16-year-old Aaron Soto as he grapples with his own desires and struggles. Silvera masterfully delves into the complexities of human emotions and relationships, leaving readers questioning the essence of true happiness.
More Happy Than Not Review
More Happy Than Not (2015) by Adam Silvera delves into the complexities of memory, identity, and self-acceptance. Here's why this book is a compelling read:
- Explores the theme of hidden desires and painful choices, which challenges readers to reflect on their own vulnerabilities and struggles.
- Integrates elements of science fiction seamlessly into a contemporary setting, creating a thought-provoking and emotionally charged narrative.
- Offers a unique perspective on the human experience, tackling tough issues with honesty and empathy, ensuring an engaging and profound reading experience.
Who should read More Happy Than Not?
- Readers who enjoy coming-of-age stories with a touch of science fiction
- Those interested in exploring themes of identity, memory, and happiness
- People who appreciate diverse and authentic LGBTQ+ representation in literature
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Book summaries like More Happy Than Not
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More Happy Than Not FAQs
What is the main message of More Happy Than Not?
The main message of More Happy Than Not focuses on the impact of memory and identity on happiness.
How long does it take to read More Happy Than Not?
The estimated reading time for More Happy Than Not varies, but reading the Blinkist summary can be done in a short time.
Is More Happy Than Not a good book? Is it worth reading?
More Happy Than Not is a compelling read that explores themes of identity and acceptance, making it a worthwhile book to delve into.
Who is the author of More Happy Than Not?
The author of More Happy Than Not is Adam Silvera.
What to read after More Happy Than Not?
If you're wondering what to read next after More Happy Than Not, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- A Canticle for Leibowitz by Walter M. Miller
- The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne
- Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder
- Wide Sargasso Sea by Jean Rhys, Judith L. Raiskin
- Just After Sunset by Stephen King
- Whereabouts by Jhumpa Lahiri
- Hearts in Darkness by Laura Kaye
- Every Heart a Doorway by Seanan McGuire
- The Curious Case of Benjamin Button by F. Scott Fitzgerald, Nunzio DeFilippis
- Side Jobs by Jim Butcher