Quick Take

Carley Mattea never expected to become friends with a boy as handsome as Kyle Westin--especially not in the hospital. Seventeen-year-old Kyle was blinded when a chemistry experiment exploded. His doctors don't know whether he'll get his vision back, and he's deeply depressed. Carley understands how miserable it is to be in the hospital. At sixteen, she's had plenty of experience. But Carley is keeping a secret from Kyle. She knows boys like girls who are pretty--and she's not. Scarred by a facial deformity, she has always used her sense of humor to cope. But now that she's become so close to Kyle, she's worried that if his bandages are removed and he sees her, it will be the end of their relationship. Carley wants what's best for Kyle. But what will that mean for her?

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: I'll Be Seeing You

Introduction

"I'll Be Seeing You" by Lurlene McDaniel is a heartwarming young adult novel that explores the themes of love, friendship, and self-acceptance. The story follows Carley Mattea, a seventeen-year-old girl who forms an unlikely bond with Kyle Westin, a boy who has been blinded in a chemistry experiment. As they navigate their relationship and confront their own insecurities, Carley learns that true beauty lies within and that love knows no bounds. In this article, we will delve into the book's summary, analyze readers' views, and provide reasons for both recommending and not recommending this captivating novel.

About Lurlene McDaniel

Lurlene McDaniel (born c. 1948) is an accomplished author known for her prolific writing in the young adult genre. With over 50 books to her credit, she has become a beloved figure among readers who appreciate her ability to tackle sensitive subjects such as chronic illnesses, terminal diseases, and the challenges faced by teenagers. McDaniel's writing style is characterized by her ability to create relatable characters and explore complex emotions, making her a sought-after author in the young adult fiction world.

Analysis of Views

Emotional Connection: Many readers found themselves deeply connected to the characters in "I'll Be Seeing You." Carley's struggles with her facial deformity resonated with readers who have experienced insecurities about their appearance. The book provided a relatable narrative that allowed readers to empathize with the protagonist's journey towards self-acceptance.
Beauty Beyond Appearance: The book's central theme of beauty being found within oneself rather than solely based on appearance resonated with readers. The story challenged societal norms and encouraged readers to look beyond physical appearances and appreciate the true essence of a person.
Engaging Plot: The plot of "I'll Be Seeing You" was praised for its engaging pace and unexpected twists. Readers appreciated the way McDaniel weaved together the storylines of Carley and Kyle, creating a captivating narrative that kept them hooked until the end.
Realistic Characters: The characters in the book were praised for their realism and relatability. Readers found themselves invested in the growth and development of Carley and Kyle, as well as the supporting characters who added depth to the story.
Heartwarming Friendship: The friendship between Carley and Kyle was widely praised for its authenticity and emotional depth. Readers enjoyed watching the two characters support each other through their struggles and develop a bond that transcended physical differences.

Reasons for Recommendation

Relatable Themes: The book tackles relatable themes such as self-acceptance, friendship, and overcoming challenges. Readers appreciated the way McDaniel explored these themes in a way that resonated with their own experiences, making the book both engaging and impactful.
Realistic Portrayal of Teenage Emotions: The book accurately portrays the complex emotions experienced by teenagers, making it a valuable read for those navigating their own adolescent journeys. Readers appreciated the authenticity of the characters' struggles and found comfort in knowing they were not alone in their experiences.
Uplifting Message: "I'll Be Seeing You" provides an uplifting message that encourages readers to embrace their unique qualities and appreciate the beauty within themselves. The book offers a refreshing perspective on love and relationships, reminding readers that true beauty lies in the heart rather than on the surface.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Predictability: Some readers felt that the plot of "I'll Be Seeing You" was predictable, lacking surprise or unexpected twists that would have elevated the story to a higher level of engagement. While the book was still enjoyable, it did not offer enough surprises to keep readers fully invested throughout.
Lack of Emotional Depth: While the book tackles important themes, some readers felt that it lacked the emotional depth required to fully immerse themselves in the narrative. While the characters were relatable, certain aspects of their struggles felt underdeveloped or resolved too quickly, leaving some readers feeling unsatisfied with the overall impact of the story.

Conclusion

"I'll Be Seeing You" by Lurlene McDaniel is a heartwarming young adult novel that explores themes of love, friendship, and self-acceptance. Through its relatable characters and engaging plot, the book provides a refreshing perspective on beauty and encourages readers to embrace their unique qualities. While some readers found it predictable or lacking in emotional depth, overall, "I'll Be Seeing You" is a recommended read for those seeking an uplifting story about love and personal growth.