All the Bright Places is a fantastic book by Jennifer Niven that shows the reader what it is like to deal with suicide, while remaining true to the real characters it creates. The book begins with the two main characters about to commit suicide when they find each other. The two high school seniors, Violet and Finch, are both about to commit suicide, they do so for completely different reasons, showing the reader that people can be suicidal for a multitude of reasons.

The book also deals with strong language, abuse and sex, but uses it almost solely to paint the world the author creates as real. While Niven raises questions about depression, life, and death, she doesn’t give direct answers, giving the reader something to think about long after they’ve finished the book. While the book stays interesting through Finch’s strong narration, the last few chapters of the book do drag but that is saved by the morose, hopeful ending.

This book is dark, and while the reading itself isn’t challenging, the material will devastate you. Many websites have listed the recommended age at 14 years old and that still might be too young. While the book is depressing it is still a fantastic read, if you’re a fan of John Green’s The Fault in Our Stars it is likely that you will enjoy this work of art.