Everything Here Is Beautiful by Mira T. Lee is lauded for its poignant depiction of mental illness and complex family dynamics. Reviewers appreciated the emotive storytelling and rich character development. Criticisms include occasional pacing issues and a somewhat disjointed narrative structure. Overall, it's praised for its heartfelt and thought-provoking narrative.

Readers who cherish deep, emotional narratives like The Immortalists by Chloe Benjamin or The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold will find Everything Here Is Beautiful riveting. Ideal for those who appreciate complex familial dynamics and mental health themes woven with cultural richness and tender prose.

Everything Here Is Beautiful by Mira T. Lee follows the lives of two sisters, Miranda and Lucia, as they navigate the complexities of mental illness, family, and self-fulfillment. Miranda grapples with her responsibility towards Lucia, who has schizophrenia, while also pursuing her own life. Lucia's journey involves relationships, motherhood, and a move to Ecuador, culminating in struggles with mental health and personal loss. The story underscores the delicate balance between self-care and familial obligations amidst societal stigmas surrounding mental illness. The novel addresses mental illness, miscarriage, and death sensitively.

Emotional / Contemplative / Melancholic / Bittersweet / Challenging

- Everything Here Is Beautiful was longlisted for the 2019 Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Fiction, highlighting its critical acclaim.
- Mira T. Lee's debut novel draws from her own experiences and insights, given her interest and background in studying mental health. 
- An excerpt from the novel was published in the summer 2017 issue of TriQuarterly, a renowned literary magazine.

**Lucia Bok**

A free-spirited and kind woman who grapples with schizoaffective disorder and strives to live a fulfilled life. She navigates her relationships and personal challenges while striving to maintain her independence.

**Miranda Bok**

The dedicated older sister of Lucia, who carries the responsibility of caring for her sibling. Her life is heavily influenced by familial obligations and her strong desire to protect Lucia.

**Yonah**

A kind and loving man from Russia who is Lucia's first husband. He respects Lucia's autonomy and maintains a supportive presence despite their separation.

**Manuel (“Manny”)**

An undocumented immigrant from Ecuador who is Lucia's partner after her divorce from Yonah. He struggles to balance his responsibilities to his family in Ecuador, his relationship with Lucia, and caring for their daughter, Essy.

**Esperanza (“Essy”) Bok**

The daughter of Lucia and Manny, who grows up in Ecuador and later attends university in New York. Essy represents hope and renewal for her family, bridging cultural heritages.

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Part 2, Chapters 5-8

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