The Art of Losing

by Lizzy Mason
The Art of Losing cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Young Adult (YA)
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  • ID: 10011
  • Added: 2026-01-05
  • Updated: 2026-01-05
  • ISBN: 9781616959883
  • Publisher: Soho Press
  • Published: 2019-02-19
  • Reviews: 3

The Art of Losing is a poignant and unflinchingly honest young adult novel that delves into the intricate relationship between sisters, the devastating impact of addiction, and the multifaceted nature of love. Seventeen-year-old Harley Langston's life takes a dramatic turn when she discovers her boyfriend with her younger sister, leading to a tragic accident that leaves her sister in a coma. As Harley grapples with guilt and grief, she finds an unlikely ally in Raf, a neighbor and childhood friend who is also battling his own demons after rehab. /n/n Through their shared journey, Harley begins to see a path forward filled with honesty, forgiveness, and redemption. This debut novel is praised for its touching exploration of complex emotions and the resilience of the human spirit.

Reviews
Bookloaner · 2019-03-09
important 4.25

The book is praised for its eloquent handling of addiction and new beginnings. It is considered an important addition to the YA contemporary genre.

This reviewer highlights the book's significant contribution to the YA genre, particularly in its exploration of addiction. They appreciate how the story delves into the complexities of starting anew, making it a poignant and relevant read. The reviewer also notes the emotional depth and authenticity in the characters' journeys, which resonate strongly with readers. Overall, the book is seen as a powerful narrative that addresses tough issues with sensitivity and insight.

Quick quotes

    The Art of Losing is an important addition to the YA contemporary genre because it so eloquently deals with addiction and new beginnings.

    Lizzy Mason has crafted a story that is both heartbreaking and hopeful, tackling tough issues with sensitivity and insight.

    The characters' journeys are authentic and deeply resonate with readers, making this a poignant and relevant read.

For Every Young Adult · 2019-02-20
impactful 4.50

The book is commended for its important message on addiction, delivered without being preachy. It is seen as a resonant and impactful read for younger audiences.

This reviewer applauds the book for its important message on addiction, which is delivered in a way that resonates with readers without feeling preachy. They find the story to be impactful and emotionally engaging, particularly for younger audiences. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to tackle serious issues with sensitivity and insight, making it a valuable and thought-provoking read. The emotional depth and authenticity of the characters' journeys are particularly highlighted, contributing to the book's overall impact.

Quick quotes

    Mason's written an important message without coming across as preachy, and it resonated; hopefully it resonates with younger readers, too.

    The book's ability to tackle serious issues with sensitivity and insight makes it a valuable and thought-provoking read.

    The emotional depth and authenticity of the characters' journeys contribute significantly to the book's overall impact.

Utopia State of Mind · 2019-02-06
profound 4.00

The book is described as a profound exploration of guilt, addiction, and family dynamics. It is noted for its raw and emotional storytelling.

This reviewer emphasizes the book's deep exploration of guilt and addiction, presenting a raw and emotional narrative. They appreciate how the story delves into the complexities of family relationships, particularly the dynamics between sisters. The reviewer finds the book to be a powerful and moving read, highlighting its ability to tackle difficult subjects with authenticity and depth. The emotional resonance of the story is particularly noted, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read.

Quick quotes

    The Art of Losing is a book about guilt. It's a book about addiction, loss, and love.

    It's also about family, sisters, and toxic relationships, presented with raw and emotional storytelling.

    The book's ability to tackle difficult subjects with authenticity and depth makes it a compelling and thought-provoking read.

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