Book Review: Marly's Ghost by David Levithan, Plus a Ramble on Valentinians

My first encounter with David Levithan was just months ago when I read his very intense novel Every You, Every Me. This was not nearly as good, but I only say that because EYEM was one of the finest books of 2011 - not to put this one down in any way...no pun intended, honestly.

It's a spinoff of Dickens' A Christmas Carol but focused on Valentine's Day rather than Christmas. It tells the story of Ben, a grief-stricken teen whose girlfriend has recently passed away due to sickness. He is visited by three ghosts, four if one includes that of his dead significant other Marly. They teach him lessons about moving on in a very Dickensian manner. It was very touching, but nothing amazing. Like I said, it's not EYEM. It was still a fun read and a quick one.

Final grade: B

Now for my views on Valentine's Day. It has a seemingly nice idea on the one hand, but I agree with Olivia when I say people should be kind and loving all year long. It might be considered awkward to give someone spontaneous chocolates on most given days of the year...but why? I am happily single, but I feel a non-romantic love toward all my friends and family. I go with the Beatles' ideals in spreading the message of peace and love. Basically, it's nice to be loving on one day, but better to be loving every day. Many friends of mine, male and female alike, not to mention all other genders (something I'm trying to learn about), receive at least one hug from me on almost every meeting. It's not because I'm in love with any of them, but because I simply love them. There is a difference. I apparently cannot stress it enough. Again, you people ought to know who you are. Yes, I love you guys very much.

Anyhoots, I must away, as I am technically "eating lunch" at school at the moment.

Oceans of friend-love,

Lewis

On the Lack of Romantic Necessity

"If love is the answer, could you rephrase the question?" - Lily Tomlin

"I understand. But I don't agree." - me

"Friendship is the finest balm for the pangs of despised love." - Jane Austen

A lot of the time at my book club we'll encounter the good-looking-guy character, who almost always ends up with the female protagonist. Not only is it terribly cliche, it's also unnecessary for reasons of its own.

I have nothing against non-paranormal romances, but they don't need to be in every single book out there. Sometimes people like to be single! I personally am not celibate, but neither do I need a romantic partner to go on with life. I have never had a very serious or long relationship, and I'm fine with that. It's like how goldfish do not need a filter for their tank or bowl, but one doesn't hurt either. To me, romantic dependence seems like using a partner as a crutch...and possibly an arm ornament. And that's not what intimacy ought to be. I feel sorry for those who say "S/he'll never get a date" because s/he does not need one. If one feels the need for a lover, then one probably has a psychological condition or state of mind.

Another reason I might potentially hesitate to become involved with another is that if it ends - and let's face it, knowing how these days are, it very well might - it will not do so peacefully. I'd rather keep a friend than temporarily have a lover and then have her dislike me forevermore. I love my friends, as I love all living things, but my love for my allies is very strong and intense. I would take a bullet for many of them - although I hope I don't need to. But that's what they mean to me.

Well then, that's one major reason I dislike Stephanie Meyer - not only did she tell a poor story, but said story taught young people negative lessons. And I wouldn't mind if there were more same-sex couples in media: there are some, but we need MORE!!

Righto! Done.

Love,

Lewis