Ratings: 5/5⭐
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Number of Pages: 224
Format: Ebook
Publication Date: 17th January 2012
Publisher: Picador
The Lover’s Dictionary- David Levithan
About The Lover’s Dictionary
The “Lover’s Dictionary” is a love story in 185 definitions. David Levithan’s “The Lover’s Dictionary” is a unique and moving exploration of modern love. Told entirely in dictionary entries, the novel offers readers a glimpse into the joys, challenges, and complexities of a relationship as seen through the eyes of an unnamed narrator. The entries, ranging from a few words to a few paragraphs, are arranged alphabetically and tell the story of the narrator’s relationship with his partner, from their first meeting to their eventual breakup.
“Trying to write about love is ultimately like trying to have a dictionary represent life. No matter how many words there are, there will never be enough.”
What makes “The Lover’s Dictionary” stand out is its innovative structure. Levithan uses the dictionary format to great effect, crafting each entry with care and precision. Some entries are playful and lighthearted, while others are heartbreaking and raw. Together, they create a portrait of a relationship that is both intimate and universal. Whether describing the thrill of a first kiss or the pain of a betrayal, Levithan’s prose is sharp, insightful, and deeply affecting.
Another strength of the novel is its portrayal of the ups and downs of a romantic relationship. Levithan captures both the joy and the heartache of falling in love, as well as the complexities of maintaining a relationship over time. He explores the many ways in which two people can connect and misunderstand each other and the ways in which love can both uplift and confound us. Through it all, the narrator’s voice is honest and vulnerable, making the novel a deeply personal and relatable reading experience.
Despite its unconventional format, “The Lover’s Dictionary” is a page-turner. Levithan’s writing is so engaging and emotionally resonant that it’s hard not to become invested in the narrator’s story. The novel moves quickly, each entry building on the last to create a cohesive narrative. Even readers who aren’t typically fans of romance novels are likely to be swept up in the book’s poignant and powerful story.
“The Lover’s Dictionary” is a beautifully written and profoundly moving novel about the joys and struggles of modern love. With its unique structure and insightful portrayal of a relationship, it is a must-read for anyone who has ever been in love (or hopes to be). David Levithan’s skillful prose and masterful storytelling make this novel a true gem of contemporary literature.
About the author of The Lover’s Dictionary
David Levithan is an American author and editor known for his young adult fiction. He has written several bestselling novels, including “Every Day,” “Two Boys Kissing,” and “Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist” (co-written with Rachel Cohn). Levithan has also worked as an editor for Scholastic and is known for his role in founding the LGBTQ+ imprint at Scholastic, PUSH. His writing is known for its sensitivity, compassion, and thoughtfulness, and his novels have been praised for their inclusivity and representation of marginalized communities. “The Lover’s Dictionary” is one of Levithan’s most acclaimed works, and it showcases his talent for creating unforgettable characters and exploring the complexities of human relationships.