All the Things We Never Knew Hardcover – June 9, 2020

In just one weekend, I finished this Young-Adult novel. Its chapters were brief, some less than a page, and they alternated between two narrators -- both in 11th grade, both involved in school basketball. Well, Carli began to contemplate quitting; Rex was the media darling. My ignorance of that sport didn't impede my ability to escape into this first-love story.It turned out that even the teens' high-income upbringing couldn't shield them from such hardships as, say, a fracturing marriage -- leading to guilt over the idea of choosing one parent over the other, heartbreaking for me to see. The issue of a present, yet uninvolved, father also arose – opening the door to a view of our human fallibility in seeing the big picture.In fact, the two protagonists gradually had to grapple with problems stemming from miscommunication and second-guessing. Carli exasperated me a bit with her peculiar search for "signs" for direction in life, but I accepted this as more an adolescent mindset. Incidentally, I admired Carli's awareness of some Shakespeare trivia which I'd never before known.I liked how the 3rd-act plot twist, somewhat hinted early on, still took me utterly by surprise. The drama amplified from there... but in a wholly unexpectedly manner! As a lifelong Texan, I appreciated the Houston-area setting, crazy weather and all. The bit of steaminess and a few profanities were not excessive to me; rather, they were reasonable for this novel.

There was so much sadness packed into these pages, but it still managed to be a sweet story. Rex and Carli seemed to be made for each other. I loved the way they were able to see the best in each other. I wasn’t expecting the heaviness of deceased mothers and disappointing fathers, but it added some realness to the story. This book was very well written. It felt satisfying to get lost in this story.

This novel is the epitome of a perfect young adult novel. A great story, fantastic writing and dialogue, appealing characters and so, so, SO much heart. Captures the beauty of young/first love and of trying to figure out who you are and why you are the way you are. SO glad I found this masterpiece and I know I’ll read it again. Loved every page. I’m even going to treat myself to the author’s first novel, Calling My Name. This one = 5 stars all the way. I’m sad to have finished it! (Great for young (and older) adults.)

What can I say? I am a fan of Liara Tamani! This book brings me back to the days of first loves and trying to find my own teen voice while navigating the world around me. It’s a beautifully written, new age, Love & Basketball and I hope everyone will fall in love with these characters just as I did.Be sure to check out Tamani’s first book, Calling My Name, too. Both gorgeous works from the cover art to the words inside. Love this author!

A story where I was drawn into the lives of Carli and Rex. It was almost like looking at a movie where I did not want to miss one scene. Their thoughts, words, emotions, family relationships, personal issues and genuine love are so very real and alive.

Loved Carli and Rex. I rooted for them so much. Their love is messy, but so is a lot of teenage love. Or even love in general. Their love has highs and lows and ended beautifully. Took me back to my first love. Really enjoyed it.

A quick read and keeps you invested... Ms. Liara Tamani writing make the characters thoughts/ feelings jump off the page allowing you to revisit your own experiences! I have recommended this to several young adults already!!

Such a beautiful story of young love and heartbreak mixed with the love and pain that comes with family and secrets being kept.