A review by lynnlovegreen
The Year I Stopped Trying by Katie Heaney

emotional funny reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

Mary is an overachiever, until she wonders why she tries so hard. As she navigates a year of not trying, she discovers who she is and what really matters, including a few surprises she never saw coming. This novel is full of heart, humor, and the big questions that teens have at this stage in life.