A few weeks ago my cousin sent me a text telling me she was sending me a book and to not take the title offensively. Seeing that it was called You’re Going to Die Alone (& Other Excellent News) when I unwrapped it certainly made me laugh and I can understand her text more. Well, not offended. If anything, me and Devrie are alike in many, many ways.
I do think a lot of that has to do with the fact that she has to be my age within a year or two, because she was experiencing all of the school milestones the same time I was, and making references to Furby and other extremely 90s things that were a part of my childhood. Now, my Furby was never possessed like many others, including Devrie’s, but the vividness of my own memories from that time were fun to revisit.
She was also like me in the sense that we were both goody two shoes, and in fact, I pretty much still am. She sounded like more of a butt-kisser and a sore loser than I was, but don’t get me wrong, I love winning and doing well. It doesn’t sound like we had quite the same type of parents, but my parents were also goody two shoes, and I have never wanted to disappoint them. I think that’s why I’m so reluctant to do things that I want to do, because the fear of failure is so strong. Now, just like Devrie, I don’t blame my parents for wanting me to have a successful life, but I wish it just didn’t make me so afraid to try things.
Devrie found out how to break free in her own way, and for me the pandemic really propelled me into doing stuff I want to do before I die one day. And just like Devrie, who freaking cares if I die alone. Technically, we all do. At the end of the day, it’s you and your mind, and that’s what will be there at the very last second no matter how you go. She’s living a more carefree life and pursuing things that she’s passionate about, where that’s places, things, hobbies, or people. While I know I’m not all the way there yet, I know I’m taking the steps in the right direction. Jumping is the hardest part, which I know, but that still doesn’t mean I’m not afraid to do it.
Reading this book just gives me more confidence to live the unconventional life I know I will be living. I’m already doing it! I know it will get more unconventional than my parents and sister are probably prepared for, but I believe they are open minded enough to know that as long as I’m happy and at least trying to keep myself safe, then they can be happy for me, too. There were certainly tear-jerking moments in this novel, but at its core it was a hopeful recounting of her life, as well as a hopeful outlook on her future. I think we could all benefit from that perspective. And kudos to my cousin for thinking of me when reading this – I think she knows my potential. But is was also a great way to read something I wouldn’t normally. Definitely an interesting read if you’re looking for something new!