Pack Up the Moon

Our Review

PACK UP THE MOON is one of the best books I’ve read. I would give it more than five stars if I could! It was heartfelt and heartwarming but also heartbreaking at the same time.  My emotions were involved from the very first page, from laughter to tears. You’ll know what I mean if you read this wonderful tale of the power of love, friendship, and your other half knowing you almost better than you know yourself.

This is Lauren and Josh’s story, and it’s a true testament to their love even through the sadness of his loss. Lauren helps Josh get through the first year of her death through monthly letters about their relationship, proclaiming their love and how well they knew each other.

I loved the letters she wrote to Josh, but also to her father when he died suddenly and unexpectedly when she was a sophomore in college. The list she created shared a part of her. Seeing the story through their eyes, as well as through those closest to them, was so rewarding. The characters are believable, empathetic, caring, compassionate, giving, funny and loving and have such depth. There isn’t a character in the book that I didn’t like. There’s so much goodness to the story, and Higgins does a fantastic job unfolding the story, showcasing the present while also giving details from the past through memories and letters. There are also many cultures represented, which give such realism to the story.

There are many details to cherish throughout, and every one of them is important in the telling of the story, even if it seems random. Josh continues to feel a part of Lauren’s family, even with her gone. Their dog Pebbles is a nice addition to the story, along with his other mom and dad, the Kims. His best friend, Radley, whom Josh meets after Lauren’s death, adds some levity to the story. Josh and Lauren lived their lives to the fullest and loved with all their hearts. The ending is beautifully written, although tearful at times, and gives closure (especially with the epilogue.) The title is apropos after thinking on its meaning.

Ms. Higgins is an author whose books I enjoy. I was lucky enough to meet her at an author visit and book signing. I follow her on her Facebook page and am part of her Super Readers page. I feel like she’s a friend that I’m lucky to know! 

A HIGHLY RECOMMENDED READ!