Five Feet Apart by Rachael Lippincott Review – A Tale of Love, Hope, and Cystic Fibrosis
“Five Feet Apart” by Rachael Lippincott is an imposing Teens & YA novel that is about two teenagers named Will and Stella. Both these teenagers are battling Cystic Fibrosis while finding the love in one of the most unusual places i.e. a hospital. Stella Grant has been visiting the hospital regularly from a very young age due to her struggle with Cystic Fibrosis. Her lifeline is the lung transplant and in order to ensure her chances, she needs to strictly adhere to her treatment regimen. There is a strict rule of the hospital of maintaining six-feet distance from other Cystic Fibrosis patients and she has to follow it because any contact can be a life-threatening one.
On the other hand, Will Newman, a different Cystic Fibrosis patient, was recently diagnosed with the risky infection B Cepacia, which forced him off the transplant waiting list. He is sick of being in the hospital and taking medications all the time. Ironically, Will is the type of person Stella should avoid, but an undeniable chemistry between them makes them want to be together. Stella is first motivated to live life to the fullest by Will’s adventurous spirit.
The love story of two teenagers who are terminally ill is explored in “Five ft\. Apart,” much like John Green’s “The Fault in Our Stars.”. Will is taking part in a drug trial to treat the B Cepacia infection while Stella is readmitted to the hospital due to a lingering fever. Stella is an example of control; she has a carefully planned out life, whereas Will is an example of freedom; he longs to travel outside the hospital. Prior to meeting Will, Stella’s greatest wish was to receive a lung transplant; however, due to their close proximity, Will endangers her chances of receiving the transplant. They must keep a strict six-foot distance between them. Nevertheless, despite the limitations placed on them, their love grows. The overall story of “Five Feet Apart” is delicate, emotional, and heartfelt, despite some of its predictable elements. As they navigate the challenges of their situation, it’s simple to root for these characters. Although the romance progresses quickly, given their dire circumstances, it feels natural and their interactions are genuinely moving. Rachael Lippincott creates a compelling and enjoyable read with humor and heart.
With likable and believable characters, Lippincott tells an interesting and well-organized story. Readers can easily relate to Stella and Will because of the alternating points of view that give readers a thorough understanding of their feelings and difficulties. Both characters are masterfully created, and their changing feelings for one another are accurately depicted. The novel offers insightful perspectives on the difficulties of living with Cystic Fibrosis as well.
