Book Review - This Star Won't Go Out by Esther Earl

This book, man. You simply have to read it. It's really hard to put into words how inspirational I found this book. I was so moved and it's really making me reevaluate my life and my faith.

 

Esther Earl passed away in August 2010 at the age of 16 because of her thyroid cancer. Thyroid cancer is rare in children, and Esther fought a brave and emotional battle with her cancer. This book is basically a memoir, filled with entries from Esther's journals to her artwork and photographs of her, as well as stories from friends and family, most notably author John Green. But to me, it didn't read like a memoir. It read like a novel, where our protagonist was funny and tragic and real and compassionate, and she dealt with everything life threw her way with grace (which is ironic, considering her middle name is Grace). Esther was such an intelligent person for someone so young, and she really made a difference with her short presence on Earth, whether she realized it or not.

 

Another thing that's evident when reading Esther's writings is that she was very close with God. She felt very strongly about her faith and was completely content with whatever His plan was for her. I find this so amazing because it's hard for young people to remain so influenced by their faith. I know this because a lot of the time, whether I realize it or not, my faith seems to come second to whatever else is going on with my life. One of the things that Esther has inspired me to do is to talk to God more and to listen to Him, because He will guide me to where I need to go in my life.

 

Esther was just a normal teenage girl who wanted normal teenage things, and in the end her life was anything but normal because of the extraordinary impact she made on everyone who heard her story. I'm really glad I read this book, because Esther's story is one that has touched me since I first heard about it, and her story is going to continue to stick with me for a very, very long time. I want to live like Esther, and I think that's the most important message this book sends out.

 

So what's my rating? Definitely 5/5 stars. Seriously, even if you know nothing about the nerdfighter community or Esther or any bit of her story, read this book. I think it's really one of the most influential books I've ever read and I'm really grateful to be one of many who get to experience her story through her eyes.

 

Rest in awesome, Esther. Thank you so much for being you. DFTBA. :)

 

-Meg