Ways to Live Forever

Sam McQueen is an 11-year-old boy with leukemia who decides to write a book about his life and experiences. He documents his questions about death, his daily routines, and his list of things to do before he dies. Sam's story unfolds through his own writings, which include facts about science, lists, questions, and stories from his life with his family, his tutor Mrs. Willis, and his friend Felix from the hospital. The book incorporates drawings, charts, and other elements that reflect Sam's curious and methodical mind. The narrative follows Sam as he continues writing his book while dealing with treatments, spending time with loved ones, and working to complete items on his list. His friendship with Felix, his relationship with his family, and his own reflections form the core of the story. Through Sam's honest voice and direct observations, the book explores universal themes of mortality, friendship, and what it means to live life fully - regardless of its length.

Readers describe Ways to Live Forever as both heartbreaking and uplifting. The book's diary/scrapbook format and authentic 11-year-old voice resonate with young and adult readers. Likes: - Handles terminal illness with honesty while maintaining hope - Includes facts, lists, and drawings that feel true to a child's perspective - Balances serious topics with humor - Parents report it helped children process grief and mortality Dislikes: - Some found it too emotionally difficult to finish - A few readers felt the ending was rushed - Religious themes bothered some secular readers Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (7,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (120+ ratings) Reader Quote: "My 12-year-old read this three times. It opened up conversations about death we needed to have." - Amazon reviewer Most reviewers recommend reading with parental guidance due to the subject matter, especially for children under 12.

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Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom A professor with ALS shares life lessons with his former student during weekly visits as his condition progresses.

My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult A girl conceived to be a donor for her leukemia-stricken sister questions her life's purpose and makes a decision that impacts her entire family.

🔸 The book won multiple awards, including the Waterstones Children's Book Prize and the Glen Dimplex New Writers Award in 2008. 🔸 Author Sally Nicholls wrote this debut novel when she was just 23 years old while studying Writing for Young People at Bath Spa University. 🔸 The unique format of the book includes actual scientific facts about stars, famous last words, and ways to cope with cancer, interwoven with the fictional narrative. 🔸 The story was adapted into a film in 2010, starring Ben Chaplin and Emilia Fox, and was shot primarily in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. 🔸 Many schools use this book in their curriculum to help children discuss and process difficult topics like mortality and terminal illness in an age-appropriate way.