WRITE ME FOR YOU

After devastating diagnoses, two 17-year-old Texans wind up in a clinical trial where they find their own love story.

June has always wanted to be a writer: She’s interested in love stories, in particular, like the one her parents had. But a diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia puts a hitch in that plan; as her cancer worsens, she heads to Harmony Ranch, which is near Austin, for a clinical trial. There, June finds friendship, which has often been a struggle for her, as well as first love with star football player Jesse, who also has AML. With their awareness that they may not have much time left, June and Jesse’s relationship quickly deepens. June, despite seeming strong in the face of cancer, is vulnerable in her self-conscious insecurity about the impact of cancer treatments on her appearance; Jesse is the epitome of a country boy, with loads of charm and swagger. Cole does a remarkable job of portraying the realities of cancer, including often less-addressed topics, such as how illness can affect relationships with friends and family members, who may not understand what their loved ones are going through and who experience their own hardships. However, the novel is hindered by cliches, including representations of Texas and its inhabitants that feel two-dimensional and detract from the story. The leads present white.

A poignant, often insightful tale whose reliance on tropes keeps it from feeling fully alive.