100 Days takes a familiar trope – terminally ill teen – and shows that even familiar things can feel new and fresh when done well.
Moira, Agnes, and Boone don’t immediately seem to have much in common, but as this lovely story unfolded they came together in really unexpected ways.
5… 4… 3… 2… 1… Not your typical countdown. I really enjoyed how each chapter of this book took place in chronological order. Specifically, day by day, counting down to something monumental. It added a layer of urgency to the story, especially as the days seemed to wind down so quickly, one after the other. The short chapters helped make this book flow effortlessly onward, which made me really want to slow down and savor each moment as I got closer and closer to the final chapters.
Boone. I think Boone might have been my favorite character, just because he’s got such a complex backstory, and I couldn’t help but root for him. I wanted Boone to make it out of his bad situation and come out on top. His character progression was by far the most satisfying for me.
Moira. Bravo Nicole McInnes for including an overweight protagonist! I shouldn’t even have to acknowledge that, since it shouldn’t be a big deal, but I did because it is. Moira struggles a lot with her weight and body image, and I especially liked watching her grow more comfortable with herself during the latter half of this book. I also loved how Boone and Agnes viewed her – they didn’t see her as someone ugly; they saw her beauty and they embraced it. Heck yes for great friends.
Agnes. How could you not love Agnes? She is certainly not your typical “righteously suffering through her disease” kind of sick kid. I loved how wild she could be, and she had some of the very best moments (those dancing scenes hit me so freaking hard, if I’m being real). It was impossible not to get attached to her, even knowing that she was probably not going to make it past the final pages.
Together, the three of them make quite a trio. But honestly, their differences made their friendship work here, you know? I thought this was a very authentic portrayal of friendship, and how we all need other people to get by. That’s life.
If you’re looking for an edgier piece of YA “sick lit” this is a good choice for you – this is a definite “sticking it to the haters” kind of read, that’ll leave you feeling emboldened to do hard things and hold your head up high.
Rating: 3.8/5 stars