Plot summary, “Me Before You” by Jojo Moyes in 6 Minutes - Book Review
0"Me Before You" is a contemporary romance novel written by Jojo Moyes. It was first published in 2012 and quickly became a bestseller, garnering widespread acclaim for its emotional and thought-provoking storytelling.
Plot Summary:
The story revolves around two main characters: Louisa "Lou" Clark and Will Traynor. Louisa, a young woman in her mid-twenties, lives in a small English town and leads a relatively ordinary life. After losing her job at a local cafe, she finds employment as a caregiver for Will Traynor, a successful and adventurous man who, after a tragic accident, is now paralyzed and wheelchair-bound.
Will's life drastically changed after the accident, leaving him bitter and disillusioned. He once lived an active and thrilling life, but his current state has left him feeling trapped and hopeless. Louisa's job is to provide companionship and care to Will, despite his initial resistance to her presence.
As Louisa and Will spend more time together, they form a unique and unexpected bond. Louisa is determined to show Will that life is still worth living, and she introduces him to new experiences and adventures. Their relationship deepens, and they find comfort and happiness in each other's company.
However, underlying this romance is the central theme of assisted suicide and the right to die. Will had expressed his wish to end his life through legal euthanasia in Switzerland before Louisa became a part of his life. As she falls in love with Will, she must confront the difficult ethical dilemma of whether to support his desire for assisted suicide or try to change his mind and convince him that life is worth living.
The novel delves into complex issues surrounding disability, autonomy, and the meaning of life. It challenges readers to consider the value of life, the power of love and friendship, and the importance of empathy and understanding.
"Me Before You" is a heartwarming and heart-wrenching story that explores the depths of human emotions and leaves readers contemplating the choices we make and the impact we have on each other's lives. The book's success led to a sequel titled "After You" and a film adaptation of "Me Before You" released in 2016, further popularizing the story and its themes.