Five Feet Apart

Seventeen-year-old Stella Grant spends much of her time in the hospital due to cystic fibrosis, adhering to strict routines and treatment schedules. Will Newman, another CF patient, arrives at the same hospital with a rebellious attitude toward his treatments and a very different outlook on life. The two teens must maintain a six-foot distance from each other at all times to prevent cross-infection, which could be fatal for them both. Despite this barrier, they develop a connection that challenges the physical limitations of their condition. As Stella and Will navigate their growing feelings, they question the rules that keep them apart and what they're willing to risk for the chance to truly know each other. The story examines the tension between physical health and emotional needs while exploring themes of love, mortality, and the search for meaning in the face of serious illness.

Readers emphasize the emotional impact and accurate portrayal of cystic fibrosis in Five Feet Apart. Many found the relationship development between Will and Stella compelling, with several noting they finished the book in one sitting. Liked: - Educational about CF without feeling like a textbook - Strong character development - Representation of chronic illness - Balance of romance and medical reality Disliked: - Some found the romance clichéd - Several readers felt the ending was rushed - Parallels to The Fault in Our Stars seen as derivative - Medical inaccuracies noted by CF patients Ratings: Goodreads: 4.17/5 (185,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (5,800+ ratings) Barnes & Noble: 4.6/5 (900+ ratings) "The connection between the characters felt authentic," wrote one Goodreads reviewer, while another criticized "unrealistic hospital protocols." Multiple readers with CF appreciated the visibility but pointed out that certain medical scenarios wouldn't happen in real CF units.

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🫫 The cystic fibrosis (CF) patients in the book must stay six feet apart in real life, but the author chose five feet for the title to show how the main characters were willing to take back one foot - representing their small rebellion against their condition. 🎬 The book was actually written after the screenplay for the movie of the same name. Rachael Lippincott adapted the screenplay by Mikki Daughtry and Tobias Iaconis into novel form. 🏥 While writing the book, Lippincott consulted with medical professionals and people living with CF to ensure an accurate portrayal of life with the condition. 🌟 Claire Wineland, a young CF activist and YouTuber who passed away in 2018, served as an inspiration for the character of Stella Grant. Like Stella, Claire was known for her positive attitude and social media presence. 📱 The main character's YouTube channel in the book was inspired by real CF patients who use social media to raise awareness about their condition and connect with others, despite being unable to meet in person.