Why We Broke Up
| Company type | Novel |
|---|---|
| Industry | Publishing |
| Founder | Daniel Handler (author) |
| Products | Young adult novel |
Why We Broke Up is a novel authored by Daniel Handler and features illustrations created by Maira Kalman. The book earned a Michael L. Printz Honor and was scheduled for a feature film adaptation starring Hailee Steinfeld set for release in early 2014.
Plot summary
The narrative follows Min Green, a junior in high school, and Ed Slaterton, a senior and basketball player, whose relationship spanned from October 5 to November 12 before ending. Presented as an epistolary novel, the story unfolds through a letter Min writes to Ed, detailing the reasons behind their breakup. Along with the letter, Min returns a collection of items that symbolize different stages of their relationship. These artifacts include movie tickets, bottle caps, a pinhole camera, a high school pennant, a recipe book, concert tickets, and other keepsakes that represent significant moments in their romance.
Promotion
Promotion of the novel included the "Why We Broke Up Project" on Tumblr, where users were invited to share their own breakup stories. Additionally, Handler engaged with the public by conducting interviews at Grand Central Station in New York City, discussing experiences related to breakups.
Reception
Monica Edinger from The New York Times described the book as a "silken, bittersweet tale of adolescent heartache," emphasizing Handler’s genuine portrayal of a teenage girl's perspective and the vivid imaginary films referenced by Min. Brian Truitt of USA Today noted that the novel surpasses typical "young adult" boundaries, resonating with anyone who has dealt with an ex-partner. Amy Benfer of barnesandnoblereview.com praised Kalman’s "sly, beautifully produced illustrations" featured throughout the book.