Side Effects May Vary
Side Effects May Vary
Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2014
Book Brief
Beta336
Novel • Fiction
Texas • 2010s
2014
YA
14-18 years
Super Short Summary
Side Effects May Vary by Julie Murphy is a novel about a young person named Alice who, after receiving a cancer diagnosis, embarks on a bold journey to settle scores and fulfill wishes. Accompanied by their friend Harvey, Alice navigates complex relationships and personal growth, ultimately reevaluating choices and priorities when circumstances change.
Emotional
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
15,685 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Julie Murphy's Side Effects May Vary is praised for its fresh take on the “cancer book” genre, featuring a flawed, complex protagonist. The dual narrative structure enriches character depth, though some find Alice's actions overly harsh, impacting likability. Themes of redemption and friendship are strong, appealing to fans of character-driven stories.
Who Should Read Side Effects May Vary?
Readers who would enjoy Side Effects May Vary by Julie Murphy likely appreciate contemporary YA novels with complex characters and emotional journeys. Fans of John Green’s The Fault in Our Stars or Rainbow Rowell’s Eleanor & Park may find this book appealing due to its exploration of life, relationships, and teenage challenges.
15,685 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
336
Novel • Fiction
Texas • 2010s
2014
YA
14-18 years
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