Which Book Make You Cry But Also Gives Hope?

I remember reading 'The Book Thief' by Markus Zusak and being completely wrecked in the best way possible. The story is narrated by Death, which already sets a haunting tone, but it’s the resilience of Liesel, the protagonist, that sticks with you. She finds solace in stealing books and sharing them with others during WWII, even as tragedy surrounds her. The way she clings to hope through words and small acts of kindness is what made me sob but also left me feeling uplifted. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest times, humanity can shine through.

Another one that got me was 'A Monster Calls' by Patrick Ness. The raw honesty of Conor’s grief and the monster’s stories, which are both terrifying and healing, hit me hard. The ending is heartbreaking but also strangely comforting, like it’s okay to let go and still hold onto love. These books don’t just make you cry; they make you feel less alone in your own struggles.

As someone who devours books like candy, I’ve come across a few that left me in tears but also filled me with hope. 'The Song of Achilles' by Madeline Miller is one of those. The love story between Patroclus and Achilles is so tender and tragic, and the way Miller writes their bond makes you feel every ounce of their joy and pain. The ending destroyed me, but it also made me appreciate the beauty of their love, even in loss. It’s a book that lingers long after you’ve finished it.

Another standout is 'They Both Die at the End' by Adam Silvera. The title spoils the ending, but it’s the journey that matters. Mateo and Rufus’s friendship-turned-love story over the course of one day is incredibly moving. It’s a book about making the most of the time you have, and while it’s sad, it’s also a celebration of life and connection. I cried buckets, but I also felt inspired to live more fully.

For something more contemporary, 'The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue' by V.E. Schwab is a masterpiece. Addie’s curse of being forgotten by everyone she meets is heartbreaking, but her determination to leave a mark on the world, even in small ways, is so hopeful. The ending is bittersweet, but it’s the kind of story that makes you believe in the power of persistence and love.

I’m a huge fan of books that balance heartbreak and hope, and 'The Fault in Our Stars' by John Green is a perfect example. Hazel and Gus’s story is filled with so much wit and warmth, even as they navigate the harsh reality of illness. The way they find joy in each other and in the little moments made me cry but also left me feeling grateful for the time we have. It’s a book that doesn’t shy away from pain but also doesn’t let it overshadow the beauty of life.

Another book that wrecked me in the best way is 'The Light Between Oceans' by M.L. Stedman. The moral dilemmas and the aching love between the characters are so well-written. The ending is tear-jerking, but it’s also about forgiveness and moving forward. It’s a story that stays with you, making you think about the choices we make and how they shape our lives.