[ 4🌟 ]

A must read for those who love the musical!

Dear Evan Hansen: The Novel allows readers to gain an insight on the characters known from the show on a deeper level, something that was restricted because of the musical form. Readers see more of Connor, his personality, and his hurt as well as his side of the story. Also, since the novel is told from Evan’s perspective, the audience maintains a direct connection with his character and his thoughts. The musical, in contrast, attempted to show the sides of most of the characters through the different songs.

Familiar scenes are included in the novel that many readers will recognize, such as the “You Will Be Found” sequence. Others reach a new level of understanding including the insight on the relationship between Evan and his father in Colorado, as his mother and father divorced when he was young.

As with the musical, the novel continues to tackle topics that need to be out in the open and talked about such as bullying, mental illness, and suicide. Both contemplate the potential devastating impact if one does not check in on loved ones. There are many people who are hurting on a level that is deeper than one’s initial understanding.

The novel and the Broadway show take care to not conclude with a “happily ever after” ending. As Evan discovers, there are serious ramifications for lying even with good intentions. But there is good and hope that emerges from tragedy and pain as well, even if it is in ways that are the most unexpected.

Dear Evan Hansen is a story of hope, of knowing that you are not alone, of realizing that you will be found.