A review of "The Truth about Forever" by Sarah Dessen

"The Truth about Forever" is a contemporary novel written by the American author Sarah Dessen. It's subject matter appeals to the "young adult" market . It was published in hardback format in 2004 and in paperback in 2006. The book has received many favourable reviews. The general outline of the story told and its complex themes are reflected upon in this article.

A brief introduction of the story line and themes

"The Truth about Forever" is authored by Sarah Dessen. She states in her own words that the novel is constructed around the “idea of perfection” and its meaning. Loss, fear, perception, behaviour and control are themes addressed by the author. Characters The main character in the novel is Macy, a 16-year old female. The story is told through her experience and interactions, the death of her father- a significant event, her reaction to the loss to “stop living”. The other characters introduced are a contrast to Macy’s personality. Kirsty, Wes, Monica, Delia and Bert are introduced as members of the Wish Catering crew which Macy becomes a part of, during what is anticipated to be a long boring summer. Macy likes her new friends and what they represent about life. Macy is attracted to Wes, an artistic and understanding character who “likes flaws and sees the potential in everything”. Themes The fluidity and changing nature of life, its recurring dynamism, loss, grief, transforming life into “one forever” is emphasised through the narrative journey.

Relationships and transformation

Macy is fond of Wes, who has a girlfriend but, whom he breaks up with. They reveal a few “truths” to each other. Deep secrets are told and they get closer. Macy stops running after her father’s death and starts to live her life, not trapped by her understanding and adherence to perfection and its constraints. Her hope is renewed, although her mother disapproves of Wes, her new friends and job. Macy begins to embrace her new life, her emotional needs are expressed, and she ventures out of her “shell”. She reflects on whether the isolated life that she once led with its safety net is the best life for her. The book is marketed for the young adult sector and was published in May 2004. Its original publisher is Viking. About the author Sarah Dessen is an American author who lives in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. This is her sixth book. The author recognises the issues with which the protagonist struggles personally and learns about herself and the nature of humanity during the process of writing the book.