Jude Hernandez is confronting two issues in the summer after graduating high school. Her papi, only 52 years old, is suffering from early onset Alzheimer’s disease and his actions, moods and memory are unpredictable.
One day, she uncovered an old motorcycle under tarps in their barn. It was her papi’s and he rode it all over Argentina before moving to the States. In the hope of delaying/reversing El Demonio, they decide to have it restored. Unfortunately, it is Emilio Vargas who is given that chore-the Vargas boys are known for breaking the hearts of Hernandez girls-and Jude is falling for him defying an oath the four sisters took to avoid Vargas’ at all costs.
The Book of Broken Hearts by Sarah Ockler is the only YA book I know of that addresses this important issue. According to the Alzheimer’s Association,
- Alzheimer’s is the 6th leading cause of death in the U.S.
- More than 5 million Americans have it.
- Approximately 4% (200,000) of the above cases are early onset, meaning the person is under 65 years old.
- By 2025, it is estimated that 7.1 million Americans will have the disease and
- By 2050 it jumps to 13.8 million.
Ockler ably tackles the issues surrounding the disease and the family members who have to deal with a loved one who has Alzheimer’s, such as caregiving (both short term and long term), the progression and unpredictability of the disease, the need for family members to lead their own lives. The romantic spark between Emilio and Jude amid the disapproval of her sisters adds to the story line.
The Book of Broken Hearts is a touching story on many levels.
Two Heads Together 