Life is not a fairy tale and bad things happen to good people. Destined to Fail is a coming of age story where happy endings are not everyone's destiny. March forces us to confront a world of trauma and tragedy which is uncomfortable and unsettling. Lighthearted books are fun to read, however March forces us to address and contemplate what a life of tragedy would feel like. Destined to Fail has depth and a strong message. Life's obstacles can be overcome, but it will take hard work and a personal investment. Life is full of choices and we as individuals must chose which paths to proceed down. March exposes us to trauma that does occur throughout every segment of our society. Destined to Fail speaks to the individual who is suffering and provides moral support and encouragement to fight while also serving as a guide for someone who needs to advocate for a friend in the middle of the fight.
"The other things that have happened, none of those I had control over. But, this situation, I could do something about. I could take the wheel and make my own decisions. It was such a powerful feeling, knowing I could control my own destiny. " (March, pg. 119)
Book Description
Jasmine Jones is ready to begin her new life as a college student, and is ecstatic to have best friend Abby by her side. But weeks into their new college life, Abby drops the bomb- she is pregnant, and dropping out of college. Jasmine can’t handle the fact that Abby is wasting her opportunity to get an education, and going back to her cheating, abusive boyfriend. She struggles to move on from her friendship with Abby, but befriends two new girls at college. Everything seems back on track for Jasmine- great new friendships and roommates, a strong relationship with boyfriend Nate, and excelling at her college courses. But Jasmine’s newfound happiness is shattered when her pregnancy test comes out positive. Does she have to drop out of college now and become a young mother? Will Nate stay with her? How can she afford a child? Jasmine’s life has been filled with obstacles and challenges along the way- from a missing father, sexual and physical abuse, and addictions that tore her family apart. With this latest setback, Jasmine fears her life will always be a struggle. Destined to Fail is one woman’s story about overcoming adversity in life, about taking the negatives and finding a positive, and about never giving up hope.
Thank you so much for the review Emily!
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