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37 reviews for:

The Pause

John Larkin

3.8 AVERAGE

challenging dark emotional funny hopeful inspiring reflective sad medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

A really confronting but important insight into the thought process of a teenage boy and suicide.

This was such a profound book! Dec's experience showed the true value of life and I adored how he stuck by Lisa even through the difficult times. This novel showed that no matter how ordinary your life may seem, it is always special. There are experiences you are yet to indulge in and the pain will be worth it in the end. Anyone who is having trouble with their self-worth and identity must read this book. Not only because it narrates a lovely story, but because Dec's life story shows that its okay to be vulnerable, it's okay to have weak moments and ask or help. By reaching out, people prove how strong they truly are and that no matter how tough their life is, they haven't given up. I loved reading this story of epiphany and even though I cried throughout, it made me think of all the things that make my life invaluable. I'm worth it. I matter, and so does everyone else in this world.

I really enjoyed this, it was hopeful and realistic and a good description of the two ways life can go.
I only wish I wasn't so busy this week to read it quicker but it was great!

Really makes you see how rare, unique and special each individual is and emphasises how suicide is a permanent result of a temporary problem.
moonbeammagic's profile picture

moonbeammagic's review

4.75
emotional hopeful inspiring reflective medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

Actual rating: 3.5

While the themes of The Pause were wonderful, well written, and well conveyed, overall this story just felt a little too repetitive and at times, just confusing.

Overall I thoroughly enjoyed the read, though, and I believe this is a very important story that can never be told enough.

I knew after just reading the blurb that this book was one that I would end up loving. I was hooked by the first chapter and was hardly able to put it down. I especially loved how each chapter was a time jump showing what happened before and after the incident. The twists were ones that I truly did not see coming and not going to lie, I was almost brought to tears by some parts. This book is definitely one that I would recommend, especially if you are having thoughts about ending your life. This book shows that there is always another option and that sometimes a single 'pause' is something that can make you look at and appreciate the world around you.

(3.5 stars)

I’m really not sure. I have mixed feelings about this one.

Every so often a book comes along ...

this is that book.

Review to come :)