Reading Response on Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult

       In Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult there are many different characters that have not yet connected with each other, and there perspectives on their lives.  This makes summarizing the story so far a little difficult.  Therefore I have decided to describe the theme and lessons from one of the characters and her point-of-view.  This girl's name is Josie.  She is everything everybody wants, pretty, straight-A student, popular, and has a popular and hot boyfriend.  Though she knows that this girl that everyone sees on the outside is not who she really is.  She is afraid that no one will accept or like her if they find out the true her.  So she pretends.  Her days are full of fake smiles and fake looks.  Josie wants to let the world know who the real Josie is, but just can't bring herself to do it.
       I think that this is an important lesson that the author is trying to bring attention to the reader.  Many people, most all people actually, especially in high school are afraid to let there true self be exposed.  I think that this is because not many people can handle there true personality and looks being judged and criticized like they will in today's society.  It is easier to be fake and be what other people want or envy.  I believe that this is taking the easy way out.  Life would be more enjoyable if everyone was their true selves one hundred percent of the time.  Unfortunately, this is impossible.  I think Josie is already more advanced then most because she recognizes her true self and knows that what she is acting like is not it.  She understands that it is easier to be what people want then what you want.
       I hope that Josie will find the strength to show everyone who she really is.  This is a brave thing to do and requires a lot of courage.  I hope she will overcome her fear of being judged and criticized so therefore she can appreciate life more and not hid anything.  This book is inspiring.  It teaches us the values of the simple goal, "to just be yourself."