The List Of Things That Will Not Change Pdf
“The List of Things That Will Not Change” is a heartwarming new novel by Rebecca Stead. The book centers around Bea, a young girl whose parents are divorced. After her father announces that he is getting remarried and having a child with his new partner, Bea finds solace in a list she creates with her family - a list of things that they promise will never change. This list becomes a guiding force in Bea’s life as she navigates the complexities of her family’s changing dynamic.
Plot Summary
The book begins with Bea at the age of seven, right after her parents’ divorce. She spends her days bouncing between her mother’s apartment in Brooklyn and her father’s new apartment in Manhattan. Despite the pain of her parents’ separation, Bea finds comfort in spending time with her dad, who takes her on adventures around the city.
As the years go by, Bea’s parents begin to move on with their lives. Her mother starts dating a man named Jesse, and her father meets a woman named Jesse (yes, two Jesses!). Eventually, both couples get engaged and plan to marry.
While Bea is excited about having new family members, she also worries about what these changes will mean for her relationship with her parents. To ease these worries, Bea creates a list of things that will never change in her family - things like “Mom and Dad love me more than anything” and “We will always be a family.”
As the book progresses, Bea faces new challenges and discovers new things about herself and her family. But no matter what happens, she always turns back to her list and the comfort it provides.
Themes
“The List of Things That Will Not Change” touches on a number of themes that will resonate with readers of all ages. One of the most prominent themes is the idea of change and how it can be both scary and exciting. Bea is forced to confront changes in her life that are beyond her control, but she also learns that change can bring new opportunities and joys.
Another important theme in the book is the concept of family. Bea’s family may not look like a traditional family, but it is filled with love and support. The novel celebrates the idea that families come in all shapes and sizes, and that what matters most is the love and connection between the individuals in the family.
The book also explores themes of identity, acceptance, and forgiveness. Bea struggles with her own identity throughout the book, but ultimately learns to accept herself for who she is. She also learns the importance of forgiveness, both for herself and others.
Conclusion
“The List of Things That Will Not Change” is a touching and heartwarming novel that will resonate with readers of all ages. Stead’s writing is both nuanced and accessible, making the book an excellent choice for young readers who may be grappling with their own experiences of change and uncertainty.
The novel’s emphasis on family, acceptance, and forgiveness make it a wonderful addition to any reader’s bookshelf. Whether you are a parent looking for a book to share with your child, or a young reader looking for a story that will inspire and uplift you, “The List of Things That Will Not Change” is a must-read.
