Me Before You
In "Me Before You," Louisa Clark is an unassuming young woman whose mundane life takes a dramatic turn when she becomes the caregiver for Will Traynor, a wealthy and cynical man left paralyzed after an accident. As their unlikely friendship blossoms, Louisa dreams of igniting Will's lost passion for life, but he harbors a shocking secret that disrupts their budding connection. The story navigates themes of love, choice, and the right to die, provoking profound questions about the value of existence. Louisa’s journey challenges her perceptions and forces her to confront the fragility of happiness. Will their bond be strong enough to change the course of fate, or will it unravel in the face of heart-wrenching decisions?
By Jojo Moyes
Published: 2012
"You only get one life. It's actually your duty to live it as fully as possible."
Start Listening
What Readers Say About This Book
From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Giver of Stars and the forthcoming Someone Else's Shoes, discover the love story that captured over 20 million hearts in Me Before You, After You, and Still Me. They had nothing in common until love gave them everything to lose . . . Louisa Clark is an ordinary girl living an exceedingly ordinary life—steady boyfriend, close family—who has barely been farther afield than their tiny village. She takes a badly needed job working for ex–Master of the Universe Will Traynor, who is wheelchair bound after an accident. Will has always lived a huge life—big deals, extreme sports, worldwide travel—and now he’s pretty sure he cannot live the way he is. Will is acerbic, moody, bossy—but Lou refuses to treat him with kid gloves, and soon his happiness means more to her than she expected. When she learns that Will has shocking plans of his own, she sets out to show him that life is still worth living. A Love Story for this generation and perfect for fans of John Green’s The Fault in Our Stars, Me Before You brings to life two people who couldn’t have less in common—a heartbreakingly romantic novel that asks, What do you do when making the person you love happy also means breaking your own heart?
The Mike & Casey Show
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
Key Points from Me Before You
About the Author
Jojo Moyes
Jojo Moyes is a bestselling British author renowned for her engaging romantic novels and poignant storytelling. She gained international acclaim with her hit novel "Me Before You," which explores themes of love, loss, and personal transformation. With a background in journalism, Moyes brings a keen observational skill to her character-driven narratives. Over the years, she has published numerous novels, earning multiple literary awards and a dedicated fan base. Moyes continues to captivate readers with her ability to blend humor and heart in compelling tales that resonate across generations.
Book Details
Key information about the book.
- Authors
- Jojo Moyes
- Published
- December 2012
- Publisher
- Penguin
- ISBN
- 1101606371
- Language
- English
- Pages
- 385
- Genres
- RomanceContemporary RomanceFictionLiterary Fiction
Purchase Options
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Similar books you might like →
Cribsheet
Emily Oster
Outlander (20th Anniversary Edition)
Diana Gabaldon
The Time Traveler's Wife
Audrey Niffenegger
Can Love Last?: The Fate of Romance Over Time
Stephen A. Mitchell
Jane Eyre
CHARLOTTE. BRONTE
Draft No. 4
John McPhee
The Marriage Plot
Jeffrey Eugenides
Of Human Bondage
W. Somerset Maugham
The Writing Class
Jincy Willett
Love Poems
Nikki Giovanni
Modern Romance
Aziz Ansari, Eric Klinenberg
The Best Way to Play
Bill Cosby
Doctor Zhivago
Boris Pasternak
The Proposal
Jasmine Guillory
Call Me by Your Name
André Aciman
Beach Read
Emily Henry
Better Than the Movies
Lynn Painter
The Rosie Project
Graeme Simsion
Saint Maybe
Anne Tyler
The Planetary Omnibus
Warren Ellis
Sense and Sensibility
Jane Austen
The Nickel Boys (Winner 2020 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction)
Colson Whitehead
The Mothers
Brit Bennett
The Hour Between Dog and Wolf
John Coates
11/22/63
Stephen King
The Wedding Date
Jasmine Guillory
99% True
Paul McGowan
User Story Mapping
Jeff Patton, Peter Economy
People We Meet on Vacation
Emily Henry
Take your reading experience to the next level
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
Book Collections you might like →
Janet Mock's Book Recommendations
Janet Mock is an acclaimed writer, director, and transgender rights activist known for her groundbreaking memoir, "Redefining Realness," which became a New York Times bestseller. She followed this with "Surpassing Certainty," further cementing her voice in contemporary literature. Mock's work has not only highlighted her own journey but also brought vital visibility to the transgender community. In addition to her literary achievements, she has made significant contributions to television, notably as a writer, director, and producer for the series "Pose." Through her multifaceted career, Mock has become a powerful advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and an influential figure in modern storytelling.
View Collection
Jack Edwards's Book Recommendations
Jack Edwards is a British YouTuber, content creator, and author known for his videos on literature, academia, and productivity. Edwards gained popularity through his educational content, which includes book recommendations, study tips, and insights into university life. He is an advocate for reading and lifelong learning, often encouraging his audience to explore literature and improve their academic skills. Edwards has also written a book, The Uni-Verse, which offers advice to students navigating university life. His work has made him a well-known figure in the educational and literary communities, particularly among young readers and students.
View Collection
Harry Styles's Book Recommendations
Harry Styles is a British singer, songwriter, and actor, best known as a member of the globally successful boy band One Direction before launching a successful solo career. Styles’ solo work has earned critical acclaim for its blend of rock, pop, and indie influences, with hits like Sign of the Times and Watermelon Sugar. In addition to music, Styles has also made a mark in fashion, known for his gender-fluid style and collaborations with brands like Gucci. He is also an actor, starring in films like Dunkirk and Don't Worry Darling. Styles is recognized for his artistic versatility and cultural impact.
View Collection
Gaby Goldberg's Book Recommendations
Gaby Goldberg is an investor and Web3 advocate, focusing on the intersection of consumer technology, culture, and decentralized finance (DeFi). She works with TCG (The Chernin Group), where she invests in companies that are shaping the future of digital platforms and social communities. Goldberg is passionate about how blockchain technology can empower creators and foster new forms of ownership and collaboration. She is also a vocal advocate for women in tech and frequently shares insights on the future of the internet and decentralized systems. Her work positions her as a key figure in the growing Web3 and crypto ecosystems.
View Collection
John Green's Book Recommendations
John Green is an American author, YouTuber, and educator, best known for his best-selling novels The Fault in Our Stars and Looking for Alaska. Green's writing often explores themes of love, loss, and the complexity of adolescence, resonating with both young adults and adults alike. He is also the co-creator of the YouTube channels Vlogbrothers and CrashCourse, where he educates viewers on history, literature, and science in an engaging, accessible way. Green is known for his deep empathy and ability to connect with readers through emotionally powerful storytelling. His work in literature and online education has made him a beloved figure in both media and education circles.
View Collection
Barack Obama's Book Recommendations
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
View Collection
David Cancel's Book Recommendations
David Cancel is a prominent entrepreneur and author best known for his influential work in the tech and startup communities. As the CEO and co-founder of Drift, a leading conversational marketing platform, he has revolutionized how businesses engage with their customers online. Cancel has also authored insightful books such as "Hypergrowth," which offers valuable strategies for scaling startups rapidly. His contributions extend beyond literature as he frequently shares his expertise through speaking engagements and his popular podcast, "Seeking Wisdom." David Cancel's innovative ideas and practical advice continue to inspire and guide entrepreneurs worldwide.
View Collection
Anya Taylor-Joy's Book Recommendations
Anya Taylor-Joy is an acclaimed actress known for her captivating performances in film and television. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Beth Harmon in the critically acclaimed Netflix series "The Queen's Gambit," which earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress. Taylor-Joy has also starred in notable films such as "The Witch," "Split," and "Emma," showcasing her versatility and depth as an actress. In addition to her acting career, she has been praised for her contributions to promoting diverse and complex female characters in modern storytelling. Her work continues to inspire audiences and set a high standard in the entertainment industry.
View Collection
Anderson Cooper's Book Recommendations
Anderson Cooper is an esteemed American journalist and television personality, best known for anchoring "Anderson Cooper 360°" on CNN. He has gained widespread recognition for his incisive reporting on major global events, earning multiple Emmy Awards for his work. Cooper is also an accomplished author, having penned the best-selling memoir "Dispatches from the Edge," which chronicles his experiences covering some of the world's most perilous conflicts and disasters. His literary contributions extend to "The Rainbow Comes and Goes," a poignant dialogue with his mother, Gloria Vanderbilt, that explores themes of family and resilience. Through his work in both journalism and literature, Cooper has made a significant impact on contemporary media and storytelling.
View Collection
Lena Dunham's Book Recommendations
Lena Dunham is an acclaimed writer, director, and actress, best known for creating and starring in the HBO series "Girls," which garnered widespread critical acclaim and several awards, including two Golden Globes. In literature, she is the author of the bestselling memoir "Not That Kind of Girl: A Young Woman Tells You What She's 'Learned'," which offers candid insights into her life and experiences. Dunham has also contributed essays to various prominent publications, showcasing her distinctive voice and sharp wit. Her work often explores themes of feminism, identity, and the complexities of modern womanhood. Beyond her creative endeavors, Dunham is a vocal advocate for mental health awareness and women’s rights.
View Collection
Natalie Portman's Book Recommendations
Natalie Portman is an Academy Award-winning actress, director, and activist known for her diverse roles in films such as Black Swan, V for Vendetta, and Jackie. Beyond her successful acting career, Portman is a passionate advocate for women’s rights, animal rights, and environmental causes. She has a degree from Harvard University, where she studied psychology, and is known for her intellect as well as her artistic talent. Natalie has also directed and produced films and is a vocal supporter of the Time’s Up and #MeToo movements, advocating for gender equality in the entertainment industry.
View Collection
Elon Musk's Book Recommendations
Elon Musk is an influential entrepreneur and innovator known for founding and leading several groundbreaking companies, including Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink, and The Boring Company. He has played a pivotal role in advancing electric vehicles, space exploration, and renewable energy. Musk's vision extends to colonizing Mars and reducing the risk of human extinction through space travel. In addition to his technological contributions, he has co-authored the book "Spacex: Making Commercial Spaceflight a Reality," providing insights into his ambitious projects and vision for the future. Musk's relentless pursuit of innovation continues to shape the trajectory of multiple industries.
View Collection
Cleo Abram's Book Recommendations
Cleo Abram is a distinguished journalist and content creator known for her incisive storytelling and engaging multimedia presentations. She gained widespread recognition as a producer and host for Vox's acclaimed series, "Glad You Asked," where she explored complex topics with clarity and depth. Abram's work often intersects with technology and culture, making intricate subjects accessible to a broad audience. In addition to her journalistic endeavors, she has contributed thought-provoking essays and articles to various esteemed publications. Her innovative approach to storytelling continues to influence and inspire both readers and aspiring journalists.
View Collection
Reese Witherspoon's Book Recommendations
Reese Witherspoon is an acclaimed American actress and producer who has made significant contributions to literature through her work in bringing beloved books to the screen. She founded the production company Hello Sunshine, which champions female-led stories and adaptations of popular novels, such as "Big Little Lies" by Liane Moriarty and "Little Fires Everywhere" by Celeste Ng. Witherspoon's book club, Reese's Book Club, has become a powerful platform for promoting both new and established authors, often leading to best-seller status. An advocate for women in the arts, her efforts have reshaped the landscape of contemporary storytelling. Her impact extends beyond film and television, fostering a greater appreciation for literature in the digital age.
View Collection
Emily Ratajkowski's Book Recommendations
Emily Ratajkowski is a renowned model, actress, and author, who gained prominence in the entertainment industry through her work in fashion and film. She made a significant literary contribution with her debut book, "My Body," published in 2021, which explores themes of feminism, sexuality, and empowerment. The book received critical acclaim for its insightful and candid examination of her experiences in the public eye. Ratajkowski's writing has been praised for its depth and honesty, shedding light on the complexities of body politics and personal agency. Beyond her literary endeavors, she continues to use her platform to advocate for women's rights and social justice.
View Collection
Aubrey Marcus's Book Recommendations
Aubrey Marcus is an influential entrepreneur, author, and podcaster, best known for founding Onnit, a health and wellness company dedicated to optimizing human performance. He authored the acclaimed book "Own the Day, Own Your Life," which offers practical advice on improving daily routines for overall well-being. Marcus's contributions to literature extend through his insightful podcasts and articles that delve into personal development, mental health, and holistic living. As a thought leader, he has inspired countless individuals to pursue a balanced and fulfilling life. His work continues to resonate with a global audience, promoting a message of self-empowerment and holistic health.
View Collection
Ellen DeGeneres's Book Recommendations
Ellen DeGeneres is an acclaimed American comedian, television host, actress, and writer. She gained immense popularity with her Emmy-winning daytime talk show, "The Ellen DeGeneres Show," which debuted in 2003 and ran for 19 successful seasons. In the literary world, DeGeneres has authored several bestselling books, including "My Point... And I Do Have One" and "Seriously... I'm Kidding," which showcase her signature humor and candid storytelling. Her work has significantly contributed to discussions on LGBTQ+ issues, especially following her historic coming out in 1997. DeGeneres is also known for her philanthropic efforts, frequently using her platform to support various charitable causes.
View Collection
Hugh Jackman's Book Recommendations
Hugh Jackman, better known for his illustrious acting career, has made significant contributions to literature through his co-authorship of the popular children's book series, "The School of Life." Born in Sydney, Australia, Jackman has seamlessly transitioned from stage and screen to the literary world, captivating young readers with his imaginative storytelling. His work in literature reflects his versatility and dedication to inspiring and educating children. Alongside his wife, Deborra-Lee Furness, Jackman has also been involved in various philanthropic efforts, promoting literacy and education globally. Despite his Hollywood fame, Jackman's contributions to literature highlight his commitment to nurturing young minds.
View Collection
Penelope Leach's Book Recommendations
Penelope Leach is a renowned child psychologist and author, best known for her books on parenting, including Your Baby & Child, which provides comprehensive guidance for parents on the developmental needs of children from birth to age five. Leach’s work is highly respected for its empathetic and research-driven approach, focusing on the importance of understanding a child’s perspective. She advocates for responsive, nurturing parenting that meets both the emotional and physical needs of children. Leach has been a prominent voice in child development for decades, influencing multiple generations of parents and caregivers.
View Collection
Ali Abdaal's Book Recommendations
Ali Abdaal is a renowned productivity expert, author, and YouTuber known for his engaging content on personal development and effective study techniques. A former doctor, Abdaal transitioned from his medical career to focus on sharing insights through his popular YouTube channel, which has amassed millions of subscribers. He is the author of "YouTube for Doctors," where he explores the intersection of medicine and digital content creation. Abdaal's work is celebrated for its practical advice, blending scientific research with personal anecdotes to help individuals optimize their lives. His contributions have significantly influenced the productivity and self-improvement community, making him a respected voice in the field.
View Collection
Emma Watson's Book Recommendations
Emma Watson is a British actress and activist best known for her role as Hermione Granger in the "Harry Potter" film series, which brought J.K. Rowling's beloved books to life. Beyond her acting career, Watson has made significant contributions to literature by promoting gender equality and women's rights through her work with the United Nations, including the HeForShe campaign. She has also curated and shared book recommendations that highlight feminist literature and diverse voices. Watson graduated from Brown University with a degree in English literature, further emphasizing her dedication to the literary world. Her advocacy and influence have made her a prominent figure in both the entertainment and literary communities.
View Collection
Emily Blunt's Book Recommendations
Emily Blunt is an acclaimed British actress known for her versatility and powerful performances in film and television. Though not primarily recognized for contributions to literature, her portrayal of literary characters in film adaptations, such as "The Girl on the Train" by Paula Hawkins, has brought literary works to a broader audience. Her role in this film was highly praised and showcased her ability to bring depth to complex characters. Blunt has received numerous awards, including a Golden Globe and a Screen Actors Guild Award, solidifying her status in the entertainment industry. Her contributions extend beyond acting, as she continues to inspire through her diverse roles and commitment to her craft.
View Collection
Roxane Gay's Book Recommendations
Roxane Gay is a critically acclaimed American writer, editor, and professor known for her insightful and provocative explorations of race, gender, and identity. She gained widespread recognition with her essay collection "Bad Feminist" (2014), which blends personal anecdotes with cultural critique. Gay's novel "An Untamed State" (2014) and memoir "Hunger" (2017) further showcase her powerful storytelling and unflinching examination of trauma and resilience. In addition to her writing, she has contributed to major publications like The New York Times and served as a visiting professor at prestigious institutions. Gay's work has earned her numerous accolades and a devoted readership, solidifying her as a significant voice in contemporary literature.
View Collection
Keanu Reeves's Book Recommendations
Keanu Reeves, primarily known as a celebrated actor, is also an accomplished author. His most notable literary contribution is the book "Ode to Happiness," a picture book for adults illustrated by Alexandra Grant, which explores themes of self-acceptance and finding joy in life's simple moments. He followed this with a second collaboration with Grant, "Shadows," which delves into the interplay of light and darkness in the human experience. Reeves' literary works are praised for their philosophical depth and introspective nature. His transition from the silver screen to the written word showcases his versatile talent and creative expression.
View Collection
Arianna Huffington's Book Recommendations
Arianna Huffington is the founder of The Huffington Post and Thrive Global, a company focused on wellness and productivity. She is a bestselling author and prominent speaker on the importance of sleep and managing stress. Arianna’s work emphasizes the importance of balance between professional success and personal well-being. Her book The Sleep Revolution has inspired a global movement to prioritize rest. She is considered one of the most influential women in media and business.
View Collection
Taylor Swift's Book Recommendations
Taylor Swift is a globally renowned singer-songwriter and actress who has made significant inroads into literature with her autobiographical songwriting and storytelling prowess. Known for her narrative songwriting, Swift's lyrics often explore themes of love, heartbreak, and personal growth, earning her critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. She has won numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, underscoring her impact on the music industry and popular culture. Swift's songwriting is often praised for its vivid storytelling and emotional depth, which has inspired a generation of young writers and musicians. In addition to her music, she has also published personal essays and poetry, further showcasing her literary talents.
View Collection“You only get one life. It's actually your duty to live it as fully as possible.”
Me Before You
By Jojo Moyes
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Our Catalogue
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.