BOOK REVIEW: Because You'll Never Meet Me by Leah Thomas

This is a book review for Because You'll Never Meet Me by Leah Thomas. I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. The scheduled publication date for this book is June 2, 2015. 

Ollie and Moritz are best friends, but they can never meet. Ollie has a life-threatening allergy to electricity, and Moritz's weak heart requires a pacemaker. If they ever did meet, they could both die. Living as recluses from society, the boys develop a fierce bond through letters that become a lifeline during dark times-as Ollie loses his only friend, Liz, to the normalcy of high school and Moritz deals with a bully set on destroying him. Narrated in letter form by Ollie and Moritz-two extraordinary new voices-this story of impossible friendship and hope under strange circumstances blends elements of science fiction with coming of age themes, in a humorous, dark, and ultimately inspiring tale is completely unforgettable.

This book completely blew me away. Even though I loved the concept, I was a little afraid I wouldn't like it. Since the entire book is made of letters between the two boys, I was afraid I wouldn't be able to connect with the characters as much as I wanted. I guess I shouldn't have worried because Leah Thomas made me feel every single emotion from these two boys. 

Ollie has a life threatening reaction to electricity. Every time he comes into contact with it, whether it is a simple booklight or computer or even a car, he starts having horrible seizures. Not only does Moritz have a pacemaker because of a weak heart, but he is sightless. Not blind, but sightless. Apparently there is a difference and Moritz is quick to point that out. He was born without eye sockets in his eyes. Now I am not sure if either of these kids' conditions are scientifically possible, but I just don't care. I willingly suspended all disbelief. When these boys start up a penpal relationship, both boys are desperate for friendship. Ollie's only friend is Liz, who he is not talking to due to a horrible tragedy. Meanwhile, Moritz finds it hard to trust anyone due to some secrets in his background and the fact that he is bullied and tormented on a daily basis. These boys start sharing their hopes and their fears; their letters are humorous and moving and their friendship is one of the best ones I have seen in a book in a long time. There was also a bit of a twist in Moritz's background that revealed a surprise connection between the two boys. I know that I can be a bit clueless sometimes, but I really didn't expect the twist as it was. I had guessed a few aspects, but there was one secret that was a bit horrifying and also sad. 

It's not often that male friendships are featured in YA fiction . . . or at all really. I was so happy to see one here. They definitely win for "bromance of the year." It was even more moving that these two young boys may never be able to meet due to their health issues. And the ending . . . that ending was perfect! I don't use this phrase lightly, but I really think this may be one of the best books I have read this year. 

Buy/Borrow/Skip: Buy this book!!! You will not be disappointed.