TL;DR
In 'All This Time,' Mikki Daughtry and Rachael Lippincott delve into themes of loss, trauma, and transformation through the story of high school sweethearts faced with a tragic accident.
What is All This Time about
'All This Time' by Mikki Daughtry and Rachael Lippincott is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and recovery. The narrative centers around Kyle and Kimberly, a perfect couple whose lives take a drastic turn when Kimberly breaks up with Kyle on the night of their graduation party. A subsequent car crash leaves Kyle with a brain injury and Kimberly dead. As Kyle grapples with his grief and confusion, he encounters Marley, a mysterious girl who helps him navigate his emotions and find a path forward. The book weaves together themes of trauma, transformation, and the enduring power of love.
All This Time 6 Key Takeaways
Kyle and Kimberly's Relationship
Kyle and Kimberly are the quintessential high school sweethearts. However, their seemingly perfect relationship comes to a sudden end when Kimberly breaks up with Kyle during their graduation night.
The Tragic Accident
Shortly after the breakup, Kyle and Kimberly are involved in a car crash. Kyle suffers a brain injury and Kimberly dies, setting the stage for Kyle's journey through grief and recovery.
Kyle's Recovery
As Kyle recovers from his injury, he struggles with the emotional aftermath of the accident. He feels isolated and misunderstood by those around him.
Meeting Marley
Kyle meets Marley, a girl who seems to understand his pain. Marley becomes a crucial part of Kyle's healing process, helping him to confront his emotions and move forward.
Revelation about Marley
Kyle eventually discovers that Marley is the daughter of one of the nurses. She is painfully shy and deeply depressed, and her presence in Kyle's life is not what it initially seemed.
Healing and Transformation
Through his interactions with Marley and his own introspection, Kyle begins to heal. He learns to cope with his loss and starts to see a future beyond his pain.
Top All This Time Quotes
- "Sometimes the best way to find yourself is to lose everything."
- "Grief is love with no place to go."
Who should read All This Time?
'All This Time' is ideal for young adults aged 14 and up who are interested in stories about love, loss, and personal growth. Readers who appreciated 'Five Feet Apart' will find this novel equally compelling and emotionally resonant.
All This Time Best Reviews
- Kirkus Reviews praises 'All This Time' as 'an emotional rollercoaster that keeps readers engaged with its heart-wrenching twists and turns.'
- School Library Journal commends the book for its 'deep exploration of grief and healing, making it a compelling read for young adults navigating their own emotional landscapes.'
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All This Time FAQs
What is the plot of the story 'All This Time'?
The story follows Kyle and Kimberly, high school sweethearts whose lives are upended when Kimberly breaks up with Kyle and they get into a car accident. Kyle survives with a brain injury, but Kimberly dies, leading Kyle on a journey of grief and recovery.
What is the age rating for the book 'All This Time'?
The book is generally rated for readers aged 12 and up, though some consider it more appropriate for 14+ due to its emotional intensity and mature themes.
Is Marley real in 'All This Time'?
Yes, Marley is real. She is revealed to be the daughter of one of the nurses and is a deeply shy and depressed individual who plays a significant role in Kyle's healing process.