the last leaves falling (YA)

Book #77 Read in 2015
the last leaves falling by Sarah Benwell (YA)

This is an exceptional read.  Abe Sora is a teenager diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease) and he knows that the outcome is death.  He feels like a burden on his mother.  Sora feels as if he cannot go out because of the pitying stares.  He connects with two local teens online via a forum and the trio end up meeting in person.  Sora feels as if his life has more meaning but the progression of his disease is quick moving and he wants to live, and die, on his terms. 

This book was well-written and powerful.  The characters are ones that readers will care about immediately.  Filled with Japanese myths and tidbits, the book was elevated to a new level.  I believe high school girls and adults would enjoy this book.  I received a copy of this book from the Amazon Vine program in exchange for a honest review.