The Year I Stopped Trying
The Year I Stopped Trying by Katie Heaney, published by Random House Children’s Books on November 16, 2021, is a 256-page young adult novel that explores themes of self-discovery and the pressures of adolescence. The story follows Mary, an overachieving student grappling with an existential crisis as she questions the meaning of her efforts and the pursuit of perfection. As she navigates her junior year, a simple oversight leads her to reconsider her relentless drive for success and the expectations placed upon her.
Readers will find a narrative infused with wit and dark humor as Mary confronts the complexities of growing up, coming out, and the social dynamics of high school. The book delves into social themes relevant to young adults, including romance and the challenges of dating. Heaney’s storytelling invites reflection on the pressures of academic achievement and the journey toward self-acceptance, making it a relatable read for those navigating similar experiences.
Official synopsis Publisher
Booksmart meets The Perks of Being a Wallflower in this novel of overachieving, existential crises, growing up, and coming out, from the author of Girl Crushed and Never Have I Ever.
Mary is having an existential crisis. She’s a good student, she never gets in trouble, and she is searching for the meaning of life. She always thought she’d find it in a perfect score on the SATs. But by junior year, Mary isn’t so sure anymore.
The first time, it’s an accident. She forgets to do a history assignment. She even crosses “history essay” off in her pristine planner. And then: Nothing happens. She doesn’t burst into flames, the world doesn’t end, the teacher doesn’t even pull her aside after class.
So she asks herself: Why am I trying so hard? What if I stop?
With her signature wit and heaps of dark humor, Katie Heaney delivers a stunning YA novel the sprints full-force into the big questions our teen years beg–and adeptly unravels their web.
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