By Gabriela MacPherson
We Were Liars, E. Lockhart’s first bestseller, flew onto bookshelves in May, and quickly flew off them. In this short read, Lockhart immediately captivates her audience and establishes a strong emotional connection between the readers and characters.
We Were Liars follows seventeen-year-old Cadence Sinclair as she struggles to regain her memory after all knowledge of her summer is erased.
One of the book’s strongest features lies in Lockhart’s characterization skills. Vivid descriptions of the characters help readers become attached to the story. Lockhart uses minute, but not annoyingly excessive, details to paint a picture of each and every personality.
Another great selling point of We Were Liars is that it is clearly aimed at a teen audience. “It takes place in summer, and it’s about a super dysfunctional family–I feel like students really connect to that,” said school librarian Robin Stayvas. “Coming back to school, students are still trying to hold on to summer. I think it definitely helps them do that.”
However, Lockhart’s writing style may not appeal to every reader. Very short paragraphs, unusual paragraph structure and a sometimes erratic plotline make for a very unique and possibly unpopular format. However, given that the main character has amnesia, the strange structure complements the uncertain plot points.
Its mysterious tone could also fend off some. “There’s definitely a darkness to it that would not appeal to all readers, for sure,” said Stayvas.
These details, however, are easy to get past given the gripping yet relatable storyline and well-developed characters.
So, if you are looking for a great mystery or romance story, make sure to check out We Were Liars. It is a fantastic story, and readers will enjoy every plot-twisting, heart-wrenching minute of it.