The other day I was in the mood to read a Nicholas Sparks book and picked up Dear John. I have to be in a certain frame of mind to read his books because, blast it, they always make me think and feel so deeply. The characters will haunt me for days and I just have to be at the mental place where I’m ready for that.
Having not read this book or seen the movie, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I knew it involved a soldier named John and a girl named Savannah. Beyond that, I assumed he would get a “Dear John” letter, but wasn’t sure what direction the book would take me and for once, I didn’t read the end before I finished the book.
Like all of his books, Sparks make you think and feel and become involved with the characters, even when you don’t want to.
I liked John and his determination to do what was right, to become a better person. I appreciated the way he learned to love his father, despite their challenges. I loved the fact that he fell in love so hard and so deeply with Savannah.
I have to tell you, though, by the end of the story, I didn’t like Savannah very much. The ending made me sad, made me cry for John, made me want things to be different. Days later, I am still irritated with Savannah and sorrowful for John.
Sparks is a one-of-a-kind writer in his ability to not only tell a story but to hold the reader emotionally captive throughout the book.
Read this book – any of his books – to experience fine writing that grabs you by the heartstrings.
