Books My Heart and Other Black Holes Novel by Jasmine Warga

My Heart and Other Black Holes 

By Jasmine Warga

Overview

My Heart and Other Black Holes is a poignant young adult novel that explores themes of depression, guilt, hope, and human connection. Jasmine Warga’s debut follows two teenagers, Aysel and Roman, as they confront their darkest thoughts and search for reasons to keep living.

Plot Summary

Aysel Seran is a sixteen-year-old Turkish-American living in Kentucky, haunted by her father’s crime—he was convicted of murdering a local boy. Ostracized at school and struggling with depression, Aysel contemplates ending her life but is unsure she can go through with it alone12.

She finds a website that matches people for suicide pacts and connects with “FrozenRobot,” a boy named Roman. Roman is attractive and popular but is consumed by guilt over his younger sister’s accidental death, for which he blames himself12.

The two agree to be “suicide partners” and plan to end their lives together on April 7, the anniversary of Roman’s sister’s death. As they spend time together, sharing their pain and secrets, a bond forms between them32.

Aysel begins to question whether her problems are truly insurmountable, and she gradually finds hope through her growing feelings for Roman. She realizes she wants to live and tries to convince Roman that his life is worth saving, too245.

The novel builds toward their planned suicide date, with Aysel fighting to help Roman see the possibility of healing and a future beyond their grief24.

Main Characters

Key Themes

Mental Health & Suicide: The book provides an unflinching look at depression and suicidal ideation, emphasizing the importance of support and understanding24.

Guilt and Forgiveness: Both protagonists grapple with guilt—Aysel for her father’s crime, Roman for his sister’s death—and must learn to forgive themselves12.

Connection & Hope: Through their relationship, Aysel and Roman discover that connection can be a lifeline, and that hope can emerge even in the darkest moments24.

Breaking the Cycle: The story challenges the idea that one’s future is determined by the past, showing that change and healing are possible12.

Reception & Impact

The novel has been praised for its sensitive, authentic portrayal of mental health struggles and its ability to foster empathy and open conversation about depression and suicide24.

Warga’s writing is described as raw, heartfelt, and honest, making the characters relatable to anyone who has felt like an outsider or struggled with overwhelming emotions2.

Content Warning

The book deals with heavy topics, including suicide, depression, and grief. It is recommended for mature teens and readers seeking an honest exploration of mental health24.

In Summary

My Heart and Other Black Holes is an emotionally charged, hopeful novel about two teens finding reasons to live in the midst of despair. Through nuanced characters and a heartfelt narrative, Jasmine Warga offers a powerful message about the importance of empathy, connection, and never giving up on hope124.

1 BOOK