TL;DR
A poignant tale of twins navigating love, loss, and betrayal, 'I'll Give You the Sun' weaves a vibrant story of family and self-discovery.
What is I'll Give You the Sun about
'I'll Give You the Sun' by Jandy Nelson tells the intertwined stories of twins Noah and Jude. The novel is split into two timelines, with Noah narrating their early years and Jude recounting the later years. As they grow apart due to sibling rivalry and personal struggles, a series of events, including their mother's death, alter their relationship dramatically. This beautifully crafted narrative explores themes of identity, creativity, and the transformative power of love and forgiveness.
I'll Give You the Sun 5 Key Takeaways
Noah and Jude's Inseparable Bond
The story begins with Noah and Jude as inseparable twins, sharing a deep bond and unique understanding of each other. Noah is an introverted artist, while Jude is a daring and outspoken girl.
Growing Apart
As they enter their teen years, Noah and Jude grow apart, driven by sibling rivalry and a struggle for their mother’s attention. Their personal journeys start to diverge, leading to feelings of isolation and misunderstanding.
Tragic Events
The twins face significant traumas: Noah witnesses his mother’s infidelity shortly before her death, and Jude experiences a sexual assault. These events further strain their relationship and push them into opposite directions.
Jude's Redemption
In the later years, Jude finds solace and guidance from a new mentor and an intriguing boy. These new relationships help her begin to heal and rediscover herself.
Reconciliation
As Jude and Noah each uncover parts of their shared history and secrets, they realize they need to reconcile to rebuild their lives. Their journey towards forgiveness and understanding allows them to reclaim their bond.
Top I'll Give You the Sun Quotes
- "Maybe some people are just meant to be in the same story."
- "We were all heading for each other on a collision course, no matter what."
- "Meeting your soul mate is like walking into a house you've been in before—you will recognize the furniture, the pictures on the wall, the books on the shelves, the contents of the drawers: You could find your way around in the dark if you had to."
Who should read I'll Give You the Sun?
This book is perfect for young adults and fans of emotional, character-driven stories. Readers who enjoy exploring themes of family dynamics, personal identity, and the healing power of love will find 'I'll Give You the Sun' deeply moving and resonant.
I'll Give You the Sun Best Reviews
- "Dazzling."—The New York Times Book Review
- "A blazing prismatic explosion of color."—Entertainment Weekly
- "Powerful and well-crafted . . . Stunning." —Time Magazine
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I'll Give You the Sun FAQs
What is the book 'I'll Give You the Sun' about?
The book follows twins Noah and Jude as they navigate the complexities of adolescence, sibling rivalry, and personal trauma. The narrative alternates between their perspectives, revealing how they grow apart and ultimately find their way back to each other.
What age is appropriate for 'I'll Give You the Sun'?
The book is recommended for readers aged 13 and up. Although it contains mature themes, it delivers powerful messages that resonate well with older teens and young adults.
What is the conflict in 'I'll Give You the Sun'?
The main conflict revolves around the twins' strained relationship following their mother's death and their individual traumas. Noah and Jude must confront their past and reconcile their differences to rebuild their bond.