Synopsis
Julie Ellis and Luke Muldenhower have always been school sweethearts. Now both are in high school and deeply in love. Luke, a talented football player, is almost certain to receive an athletic scholarship to a top college. And no matter what her parents say, wherever Luke goes, Julie intends to follow. When Luke can't shake what he thinks is a virus, Julie persuades him to see a doctor. Luke's test results are alarming, but Julie believes their love is stronger than anything. Can love survive, now and forever?
School Library Journal
Gr 6-9-Julie Ellis and football star Luke Muldenhower had everything going for them-popularity, good grades, and love. Then Luke develops Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Shaken to the core, Julie is determined to help him through his chemotherapy and get through this ordeal so their lives can return to normal. Then masses are discovered in his chest and groin area. Soon after he begins radiation therapy, their close relationship begins to deteriorate as Luke pushes Julie away. This novel contains excellent information on cancer treatments and the emotional world of cancer victims and those who love them. The characters are convincing enough to draw readers into the drama and the inevitable conclusions that occur when one is faced with a life-threatening illness. McDaniel shows her literary expertise by humanizing a terrible disease and guiding readers through the whole process of illness. This is a good choice for either bibliotherapy or recreational reading. Just make sure there are tissues nearby.-Jana R. Fine, Clearwater Public Library System, FL