‘“I love you,” I say to him, only it comes out, “Hey.”

“So damn much,” he says back, only it comes out, “Dude.”’

I’ll Give You The Sun is American writer Jandy Nelson’s second book, and one which is truly one of a kind. The story surrounds twins Noah and Jude and the changes wrecked on their lives and relationship following a shocking tragedy. Half the story is from thirteen-year-old Noah’s perspective, with readers getting an insight into his artist’s mind and his blooming friendship with the intriguing boy who has moved in next door. The other half of the book is from the point of view of sixteen-year-old, once sunshine-like, now turned inward, Jude. Readers join her on her tumultuous journey towards self-discovery and witness her unexpected connection with her strange new mentor and a charismatic English boy she can’t seem to stay away from. 

Nelson weaves a tale that is both heart-wrenching and heart-warming, and explores important issues such as that of grief, sexuality, family relationships and self-discovery. Her central characters Noah and Jude all but leap off the page, and are easily as complex and layered as real-life people. It’s difficult not to find yourself rooting for them in their struggles to find themselves, and each other, once again. 

However, it’s not just Nelson’s characters who are strong; the book’s plot is similarly compelling, with Nelson employing just enough tension throughout her story to keep readers hooked. It’s not uncommon for books to start off strong and lose themselves somewhere along the way but I’ll Give You The Sun is not such a book - rather, it’s a thrill to read from start to finish. 

I’ll Give You The Sun is perfect for readers in search of realistic characters, a gripping plot and strong emotions provoked.