The How & the Why is a young adult novel written by Cynthia Hand. The book follows the story of Cass, a high school senior who was adopted as a baby and has always wondered about her birth mother. The story alternates between Cass’s present-day life and the letters her birth mother wrote to her before she was born.

In the present day, Cass is a driven student who is passionate about science and dreams of becoming a geneticist. She has a close relationship with her adoptive parents but feels like something is missing in her life. As she navigates the challenges of senior year, including college applications and relationships, she becomes increasingly curious about her birth mother.

The letters from Cass’s birth mother provide insight into her past and the circumstances that led to her decision to give Cass up for adoption. Through these letters, Cass learns about her family history and begins to understand more about herself.

As Cass uncovers more about her past, she also grapples with questions about identity, family, and belonging. The novel explores themes of nature vs. nurture, the complexities of adoption, and the power of love.

Overall, The How & the Why is a heartfelt and thought-provoking novel that will resonate with readers who have ever questioned where they come from or who they are.

• The How & the Why

• By: Cynthia Hand
• Narrated by: Phoebe Strole, Erin Spencer

“Cynthia Hand is a master at pulling your heart out. The How & the Why tells both sides of an adoption story with love, compassion, and care.” (Brigid Kemmerer, New York Times bestselling author of Letters to the Dead)

An in-depth exploration of family and relationships, from New York Times bestselling author Cynthia Hand.

Cassandra McMurtrey has the best parents a girl could ask for; they gave Cass a life she wouldn’t trade for the world. She has everything she needs – but she also has questions. Like, to know who she is. Where’s she from. Questions that her adoptive parents couldn’t answer, no matter how much they loved her.

But 18 years ago, someone wrote Cass a series of letters. And they may hold the answer Cass is looking for.

Alternating between Cass’s quest for answers and letters from the pregnant teenage girl who put her up for adoption, this emotional resounding story is perfect for those Nina LaCour and Jandy Nelson fans.

I listened to the whole thing and enjoyed it a lot. Parts of it were slightly slow but I’m glad I finished it

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