New Moon

I had heard that this was the worst book in the series, but I actually really enjoyed it.

I think a lot of readers are understandably put off by Bella's depression. Pages eighty-five through ninety-two are simply months passing without note because Bella is completely blanked. She can't feel or think; she simply exists. I found this to be rather brilliant, perhaps because I can unfortunately understand it completely. On the other hand, the deep depression is an indication of Bella's youth, which undermines the validity of her decision to return to Edward.

I have also heard others say this was their favorite book because of Jacob. Jacob is a pretty cool character, but he does not carry the book. The raw honesty of Bella's condition is what really carries this book. Meyer, a mother and a wife, has obviously kept in touch with her teenage self quite well. I remember feeling like my life revolved around social situations, like there was nothing inside me that didn't relate to others. People are always complaining of the egocentricity of youth, but in many ways, it is egocentricity that saves us from youth. It is the understanding that we are with or without others that makes us grow up. Bella never achieves this, and I feel for her because she is rescued rather than fighting her way out. Still, her evolving relationship with Jacob and her desire for danger are entertaining.

The climax of this book is not as suspenseful or entertaining as the first. Bella leaves Forks to save Edward from his own suicidal tendencies in Italy. Once again it is their relationship's lack of realistic foundation that makes the whole thing seem hollow. On the other hand, I was grateful Edward reappeared because Jacob deserved better than Bella's half-hearted admiration. Also, Charlie is a great character. He is well written and realistic, more so than Bella, Edward, or Jacob.

I really enjoyed the philosophical argument between Edward and Carlisle about whether or not vampires have an afterlife or even a soul. This was the one interesting part about the climax. Edward mistakenly believes he is already dead when Bella rushes into his arms. This was both amusing and thought provoking, but it was not really enough to pull off a 563 page novel.