Everything All at Once
A soaring novel by the critically acclaimed author of The Half Life of Molly Pierce and The Lost & Found, perfect for fans of Jennifer Niven and Rainbow Rowell.
Lottie Reaves is not a risk taker. But she’s about to take a leap into the unknown…
When Lottie's beloved Aunt Helen dies of cancer, it upends her careful, quiet life.
Aunt Helen wasn’t a typical aunt. She was the world-famous author of the bestselling Alvin Hatter series. She knew a thing or two about the magic of writing, and how words have the power to make you see things differently.
In her will, Aunt Helen leaves Lottie a series of letters—each containing mysterious instructions. As Lottie sets about following them, she realizes they’re meant to make her take a risk, and, for once in her life, really live. But when the letters reveal an extraordinary secret about her aunt’s past—and the inspiration for the Alvin Hatter series—Lottie finds herself faced with an impossible choice, one that will force her to confront her greatest fears once and for all.
Part mysterious adventure, part love letter to the power of books, this is a brilliantly woven novel about loving, reading, writing, grieving, and finding the strength to take a leap.
Praise for Everything All at Once
From School Library Journal
Gr 7 Up—Helen Reaves was the world-renowned author of the books about the immortal Hatter children. After the eccentric writer dies from cancer, her niece Lottie is saddened. However, before Helen passed, she created a scavenger hunt as a way to say goodbye to Lottie. As each envelope is opened, a secret about Helen's life is revealed and a task is put before the protagonist. The game slowly pulls Lottie out of her overly cautious lifestyle and challenges her to live a little. When the hunt leads Lottie to the mysterious Sam, her life is turned upside down, and she throws caution to the wind. Told from Lottie's point of view and through a series of letters written to Lottie from her aunt, this is a compelling novel and a wonderful story about loss, anxiety, love, and the importance of a life well lived. VERDICT The perfect beach read for any teen. Recommend to fans of Maureen Johnson's 13 Blue Envelopes, Natalie Babbitt's Tuck Everlasting, or Laura Ruby's Bone Gap.—Ellen Fitzgerald, Naperville Public Library, IL
“Leno’s writing is flawless...a beautifully interwoven story filled with much depth. Readers of all ages will find themselves swept away, right along with Lottie, until the very last page.” (Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA))
“A truly captivating tale about grief and the affirming power of self-examination.” (Booklist)
“A charming and sophisticated take on handling grief with a mystical twist ending that is sure to engage teens nostalgic for the magic of reading Harry Potter or Tuck Everlasting for the first time.” (Kirkus Reviews)
Praise for The Lost & Found: “A rich, romantic story about two thoughtful teenagers on a quest for meaning.” (Publishers Weekly)
“A beautiful exploration of loss…Quirky, endearing, and believable characters propel a narrative that pulls readers in with every mile of the road trip. An emotional journey that’s well worth the ride.” (School Library Journal)
“Characters readers can believe in and care about.” (Kirkus Reviews)