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A review by caffeinatedchapters
The Girl He Used to Know by Tracey Garvis Graves
5.0
This is my first read by Tracey & the book has my whole heart. I knew very early on that this would be a 5 star read ♡
My impression of the book
both the plot & the characters engaged me pretty quickly. I could tell there was something different about Annika, but it wasn’t in an, “I’m not like other girls, pick me” way. There was a genuine pure hearted lightness about her that made me want to know more. This book for me gave off very calming & cozy vibe & I was pleasantly surprised to see my favorite bookish things. Past to present, dual pov & first person. This book was such a warm hug & I just felt very happy reading it & relating to Annika.
The main characters
I loved pretty much everyone in this book. I really enjoyed how everyone played a big role in her life. it all fit together so nicely. The character besides Annika (obviously) who stood out most for me, was Janice. She stood out to me most because of how helpful she was to Annika even before really knowing her. it was so refreshing & beautiful to see that they stay friends and that she never judged her. I think we all need a Janice in our lives. Also her mom was really sweet as well, I like their relationship & the conversations they had. As someone who isn’t on the spectrum, I can’t say whether I feel like Annikas actions were realistic. But I will say, from a bit early on, I knew she was different and I guessed that was why. As for the other characters- I love them. Her dad, will, Of course Jonathan. Even Tina, ray, & Henry.
Character growth
I feel that the character growth was well shown. I found myself being really proud of Annika because i could understand how certain things were more difficult for her than others. As someone with "unseen disabilities" again- it was refreshing to see her growth & how those around her adapted to her and helped her adapt. Especially Janice & Jonathan.
Annika going through bullying/abuse
this made me absolutely heartbroken for her. I agree with her mother pulling her out of school, but i do wish that she still would've been able to have Annika socialize a bit. I think it was great for her mental well being, but I think maybe there were ways she could've been more prepared for the outside world. Just in case it turns out she didn't have Janices support. But i understand her moms pov & the choices Annika made for herself along the way. She adapted very well
Overall
All in all I loved the book, I didn't want it to end, but since it had to- the ending was so perfect & bittersweet. Chapters 38-45 (the end) were not what I expected in the most sad, but beautiful way possible. I will carry Annika & Jonathans story with me forever & I think everyone should read it at least once.
My impression of the book
both the plot & the characters engaged me pretty quickly. I could tell there was something different about Annika, but it wasn’t in an, “I’m not like other girls, pick me” way. There was a genuine pure hearted lightness about her that made me want to know more. This book for me gave off very calming & cozy vibe & I was pleasantly surprised to see my favorite bookish things. Past to present, dual pov & first person. This book was such a warm hug & I just felt very happy reading it & relating to Annika.
The main characters
I loved pretty much everyone in this book. I really enjoyed how everyone played a big role in her life. it all fit together so nicely. The character besides Annika (obviously) who stood out most for me, was Janice. She stood out to me most because of how helpful she was to Annika even before really knowing her. it was so refreshing & beautiful to see that they stay friends and that she never judged her. I think we all need a Janice in our lives. Also her mom was really sweet as well, I like their relationship & the conversations they had. As someone who isn’t on the spectrum, I can’t say whether I feel like Annikas actions were realistic. But I will say, from a bit early on, I knew she was different and I guessed that was why. As for the other characters- I love them. Her dad, will, Of course Jonathan. Even Tina, ray, & Henry.
Character growth
I feel that the character growth was well shown. I found myself being really proud of Annika because i could understand how certain things were more difficult for her than others. As someone with "unseen disabilities" again- it was refreshing to see her growth & how those around her adapted to her and helped her adapt. Especially Janice & Jonathan.
Annika going through bullying/abuse
this made me absolutely heartbroken for her. I agree with her mother pulling her out of school, but i do wish that she still would've been able to have Annika socialize a bit. I think it was great for her mental well being, but I think maybe there were ways she could've been more prepared for the outside world. Just in case it turns out she didn't have Janices support. But i understand her moms pov & the choices Annika made for herself along the way. She adapted very well
Overall
All in all I loved the book, I didn't want it to end, but since it had to- the ending was so perfect & bittersweet. Chapters 38-45 (the end) were not what I expected in the most sad, but beautiful way possible. I will carry Annika & Jonathans story with me forever & I think everyone should read it at least once.