Marly's Ghost : Book Review

"Marly's Ghost" by David Levithan is a moving and captivating novel that explores the enduring power of love and the complexities of grief. The story centers around Ben, a teenager still grappling with the loss of his girlfriend, Marly, who tragically passed away a year ago. On the eve of the anniversary of her death, Marly's ghost returns to Ben, granting him the opportunity to spend one more day with her. However, as the tale unfolds, it becomes clear that Marly's return is not just for Ben's benefit, but also for her own.

Levithan's writing is poignant and evocative, drawing readers into the depths of Ben's emotions as he navigates his grief and longing. The novel masterfully delves into themes of love, loss, and the enduring power of memories. Through Ben's journey, the author explores the different stages of grief, as Ben struggles with guilt and learns to come to terms with Marly's death. Levithan's portrayal of Ben's emotional growth and acceptance is both realistic and deeply affecting.

At its core, "Marly's Ghost" is a love story that transcends death. The relationship between Ben and Marly is palpable, even in the afterlife, and their interactions are tender and bittersweet. Levithan creates characters that are incredibly relatable and allows readers to genuinely care about their happiness and closure. Through their bond, the novel serves as a beautiful reminder of the power of love and the importance of cherishing our loved ones.

Beyond being a ghost story, "Marly's Ghost" is also a tale of self-discovery. As Ben spends this precious time with Marly's ghost, he not only learns more about her, but also about himself and the person he aspires to be. Levithan seamlessly weaves in themes of forgiveness and personal growth, offering valuable life lessons that resonate with readers and encourage self-reflection.

In conclusion, "Marly's Ghost" is a beautifully written and heartwarming novel that delves deep into the intricacies of love and grief. Levithan's storytelling prowess shines as he deftly captures the essence of human emotions through his well-drawn characters. This book is a must-read for those seeking a touching and thought-provoking experience that lingers long after the final page is turned.

What are readers saying?

"Marly's Ghost" by David Levithan is a heartfelt young adult novel that has received a range of reviews from readers. The story takes place during the holiday season and follows Ben, a teenager mourning the loss of his girlfriend, Marly. Ben is visited by Marly's ghost, who leads him on a journey of healing and self-discovery.

Positive reviews highlight Levithan's beautiful writing style and the emotional depth of the story. Readers appreciate the author's exploration of themes such as grief, loss, and moving forward. They admire Levithan's sensitive and authentic portrayal of these complex emotions. The evolving relationship and chemistry between the characters are also praised for adding depth to the narrative.

However, some readers express disappointment with "Marly's Ghost." A common criticism is that the story lacks originality and follows a predictable path. Some reviewers feel that the ghost element is not fully utilized and could have been explored more deeply. Additionally, a few readers find certain characters underdeveloped, making it difficult to form a strong connection.

Opinions differ on the pacing of the book. Some readers enjoy the fast pace as it keeps them engaged and makes for a quick and enjoyable read. Others, however, desire a slower pace to allow for more fully developed scenes and character arcs.

Despite mixed reviews, "Marly's Ghost" by David Levithan remains a touching novel that addresses themes of grief, love, and personal growth. While some readers appreciate the emotional depth and skilled writing, others find the story lacking originality and character development. Nevertheless, it is a book that can resonate with young adult readers, particularly those who enjoy heartfelt stories that delve into complex emotions.

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