Holding Up the Universe by Jennifer Niven is a moving young adult novel about self-acceptance, friendship, and first love.
Libby Strout is determined to start high school with confidence after years of being known only for her weight. She wants people to see her for who she truly is rather than the labels others have given her. Jack Masselin appears popular and self-assured, but he hides a secret condition called prosopagnosia, which makes it impossible for him to recognize faces.
When an embarrassing incident brings Libby and Jack together, they are forced to spend time with one another through group counseling. As their friendship grows, they begin to understand each other's struggles and discover that they are more than the judgments and expectations placed upon them. Together, they learn about courage, acceptance, and the power of being truly seen.
A heartfelt and inspiring story, Holding Up the Universe explores identity, kindness, and the importance of looking beyond appearances.