Reviewed by: Noelle
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
12+
Brief Insights: We Are All Made of Molecules by Susin Nielsen is a heartfelt and humorous story about two very different teens—nerdy, kind-hearted Stewart and popular, image-obsessed Ashley—who are forced to live together when their parents relationship becomes more serious. Told through alternating perspectives, the book explores themes of family, acceptance, friendship, growing up, bullying and sexual assault. Susin Nielsen skillfully balances light-hearted moments with serious ones making the book incredibly engaging. This is a moving and funny book; best suited for readers aged 12 and up.
From the minute I saw the title of this book it caught my eye. The message that we are better united than divided was not only broadcast by the title but also it’s easy to read content. Somehow, Susin Nielsen made me feel so many emotions during this short but captivating 256 page book. One page I would be laughing and the next, close to tears. This book was a rollercoaster I would love to ride over and over again; what really made it stand out was its unique main characters. We Are All Made of Molecules follows two teenagers: Stewart, a stereotypical nerd with poor social skills and a big heart and Ashley, her school’s resident “it girl”. They are thrown together when their parents decide to take their relationship to the next level and merge their families into one house. While Stewart is excited to have a sister, Ashley is horrified that she’ll have to breathe the same air as Stewart. The alternating perspectives added so much depth to the story and their contrast in personalities was extremely entertaining to read. Throughout the book they each face their own challenges: learning how to live together, dealing with new relationships and learning the most important thing of all…what really makes a true friend?
One of my favourite parts of the story is watching Ashley’s relationship with her Dad transform. Just over a year ago, Ashley’s Dad came out as gay and is now living in their coach house but Ashley wishes he was much further away. Why did her Dad have to destroy their perfect family? Watching her go from anger to acceptance and eventually to a beautiful love for her dad was moving to read.
Another detail that really warmed my heart is the fact that it takes place in my hometown, Vancouver, Canada. Most of the books I read are written by American authors so reading something by a local author was very inspiring for me. I also loved the references to some of my favourite spots around Vancouver such as Kits Beach, Stanley Park and the coffee shop, ‘Bean Around the World’.
In my opinion, this book deserves 4 out of 5 stars for its humour, impactful messages and mostly lovable characters. My only drawback was that I found the characters were quite cliché which they did eventually evolve from. Still, I would have appreciated a little more depth as people beyond the stereotypes they were depicted as, especially Ashley. Otherwise, it was quite unique and original since it is a readable book directed at a younger audience with sexual assault and bullying. Overall I enjoyed this roller coaster of a book and encourage anyone over the age of 12 to read it.
12+ because of sexual assault, language and underaged drinking.
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