TL;DR
Every Day by David Levithan tells the story of A, a genderless spirit who wakes up in a different body every day and falls in love with the same girl, Rhiannon, challenging the boundaries of identity and connection.
What is Every Day about
In Every Day, David Levithan explores themes of love, identity, and the fluidity of existence through the eyes of A, a unique being who wakes up in a different body each day. A has lived by certain rules to navigate this unusual life: never get too close, avoid being noticed, and do not interfere. However, everything changes when A inhabits the body of Justin and meets his girlfriend, Rhiannon. This encounter sparks a desire in A to connect with her on a deeper level, igniting a journey filled with challenges, emotional dilemmas, and existential questions regarding love and self-identity. Levithan's narrative offers a profound look at the complexities of relationships transcending physical forms.
Every Day 8 Key Takeaways
A wakes up in a different body every day.
Every morning, A, a genderless spirit, inhabits a new body, living the life of that individual for 24 hours. This unique condition forces A to adapt quickly, absorbing the memories and experiences of each host while grappling with the implications of their transient existence.
A meets Rhiannon and falls in love.
During a particular day in Justin's body, A has a fateful encounter with Rhiannon, Justin’s girlfriend, which alters A's perspective on love and desire. A becomes deeply attached to Rhiannon, leading to internal conflicts about identity and connection.
A's rules of existence are challenged.
The foundational rules A has lived by—detaching from attachments and remaining unnoticed—are put to the test as A navigates the complexities of love and self-identity, ultimately realizing that true connection is worth the risk.
Exploration of different identities.
Throughout the narrative, A experiences life through various lenses, embodying diverse identities including different genders and sexual orientations. This exploration raises questions about the essence of identity and the universal nature of love.
Rhiannon learns about A's reality.
As Rhiannon starts to understand A's unique existence, their relationship evolves into a profound exploration of love that transcends physical forms, challenging societal norms and personal beliefs.
The struggle for a lasting connection.
A's desire to maintain a relationship with Rhiannon, despite the inherent impossibility of their situation, forms a poignant theme throughout the book, emphasizing the struggle for genuine connection in a world defined by change.
A's journey of self-discovery.
The narrative becomes a vehicle for A's self-discovery as they confront their feelings and the nature of their existence, ultimately grappling with what it means to truly love and be loved.
Conclusion and ambiguity.
The story concludes with a blend of hope and ambiguity, as A seeks to redefine love and relationships in the context of their unique experience, leaving readers to ponder the boundaries of identity and connection.
Top Every Day Quotes
- "Love is not about who you are, but who you are with."
- "Every day, I wake up in a different body. But every day, I love the same girl."
- "It’s not about the body; it’s about the connection we share."
Who should read Every Day?
Every Day is ideal for young adults and readers who appreciate thought-provoking narratives about love, identity, and the human experience. This book encourages reflection on personal connections that transcend physical forms, making it a valuable read for those exploring their own identities and relationships.
Every Day Best Reviews
- "Levithan's Every Day is a profound exploration of love that transcends physical boundaries, beautifully crafted and emotionally resonant." - Publisher's Weekly
- "A unique narrative that challenges our perception of identity and romance, Every Day is both heartwarming and thought-provoking." - School Library Journal
- "Levithan weaves a compelling story that is as imaginative as it is insightful, making Every Day a must-read for young adults." - Kirkus Reviews
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Every Day FAQs
What age group is Every Day suitable for?
Every Day is recommended for ages 14 and up due to its themes of love and identity, which resonate significantly with young adult readers.
Is there a sequel to Every Day?
Yes, the sequel titled Someday continues the journey of A and explores further the implications of love and identity in a world of body-switching.