Ellie Haycock Is Totally Normal By Gretchen Schreiber

In Gretchen Schreiber's debut novel, readers are introduced to Ellie Haycock, a teenager who compartmentalizes her life into two distinct spheres: one at home, where she's an active member of her school's speech and debate team, and another at the hospital, where she grapples with a chronic illness under the watchful eye of her doctors and overbearing mother. For Ellie, the choice between the two worlds is clear-cut.

However, a new hospital stay alters Ellie's perspective. She forms unexpected connections with a group of friends, including Ryan, a newcomer whose unwavering optimism contrasts sharply with Ellie's disillusionment with the medical system. Despite her initial resistance, Ryan's presence begins to permeate Ellie's thoughts, challenging her preconceptions and offering a glimmer of hope in her otherwise tumultuous life.

As Ellie navigates the complexities of her illness and newfound relationships, she confronts the dichotomy between her desire for normalcy and the extraordinary experiences unfolding before her. Through poignant moments of introspection and shared laughter, Ellie discovers that perhaps her life, despite its challenges, holds the potential for unexpected beauty and growth.

With echoes of "The Breakfast Club" and "Five Feet Apart," Schreiber's novel offers a big-hearted exploration of friendship, resilience, and the power of human connection in the face of adversity. Through Ellie's journey, readers are reminded of the transformative impact of compassion and empathy, and the possibility of finding light even in the darkest of circumstances. As Ellie grapples with her identity and relationships, she learns that true strength lies in embracing vulnerability and opening oneself up to the possibility of love and redemption. 📚❤️