Another way of saying “universality” is “applicable” or
“relatable.” The question could be asked in this way, “What makes this book applicable
and relatable to many readers?” In other words, even though the reader may not have much
in common with Lily or the other characters, how come readers still connect to the ideas
in this book?
Readers connect to the text
because of themes that apply to many readers’ lives, regardless of race or age or
gender. Lily is lost in many ways, never having known her mother and not having a very
emotionally present father. Partly because of these factors, Lily questions who she is
and blames herself for many things, believing she is a bad person. This theme of self
discovery and questioning is something that many people go through in life. Most people
ask themselves, “who am I?” and “What do I want to do with my life?” Lily is asking
herself these questions constantly throughout the novel. She is also searching for a
place to belong. Like many adolescents, Lily often feels awkward and unsure of herself.
And like many adolescents, she is looking for people she feels understand and accept
her. She also experiences a crush on a boy, and admiration for older female figures, all
of which most people experience in life. There is also an idea of family that people can
connect to in the novel. Lily is looking for a family, and finds one in the Boatwright
sisters and Rosaleen. Even though it is an unconventional family, they support each
other and love one another. Most families are not the typical nuclear family with
father, mother, and two children anymore, and readers can identify with having a family
that is not traditional. Regardless of how a family is constructed, love is the most
important factor, and Lily learns this. All of these are reasons why readers can connect
to this book and find the themes universal.
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