We Contain Multitudes

By: Sarah Henstra

Narrated by: Matthew Gouveia, Tony Kim

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe meets I'll Give You the Sun in an exhilarating and emotional novel about the growing relationship between two teens boys, told through the letters they write to one another.
Jonathan Hopkirk and Adam "Kurl" Kurlansky are partnered in English class, writing letters to one another in a weekly pen pal assignment. With each letter, the two begin to develop a friendship that eventually grows into love. But with homophobia, bullying, and devastating family secrets, Jonathan and Kurl struggle to overcome their conflicts and hold onto their relationship...and each other.
This rare and special novel celebrates love and life with engaging characters and stunning language, making it perfect for fans of Jandy Nelson, Nina LaCour, and David Levithan.

Critic reviews

Praise for We Contain Multitudes:
*"A love story, a therapy session, a reason to read Whitman-the sweetness of unexpected amour is here, as is the saline of sadness...Your reason to root for love-and the power of the pen."
—Kirkus, starred review

*"This is an absolutely extraordinary work of fiction that proves the epistolary novel is an art form. Kurl and Jo are characters to die for, emotionally compelling and empathetic. Their quotidian lives are riveting and their story unforgettable...not to be missed."—Booklist, starred review

"...as a medium for reporting day-to-day occurrences and conveying intimate feelings and classic themes-love, lust, and betrayal, among others-the letters shine."—Publishers Weekly

"...her [Hentra's] skill lies in painstakingly depicting each boy's slow move toward vulnerability until a smoldering, secret romance begins. This exploration of self and sexuality is sure to be quickly embraced by fans of Love, Simon, They Both Die in the End and The Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue"
—Shelf Awareness

"We Contain Multitudes is an emotional journey, both heartbreaking and healing. A true love letter to the way family, friendships, and first loves slowly peel away our carefully constructed walls to the layers beneath. Henstra's words are a universe I never want to escape."

—Julian Winters, author of Running with Lions

"The title of this book is incredibly fitting. Jonathan and Kurl are two complex and fascinating characters, and they instantly drew me into the world created by their letters and their love. It's an astonishing romance and character study that also happens to be full of gorgeous writing."—Robin Talley, author of Lies We Tell Ourselves and Pulp

One of my favorite books

I don’t typically enjoy books written in a letter format. However, I loved this book. I recommend reading it as a hard copy, not as an audiobook— it’s better that way, but the audiobook does the job if reading isn’t an option.

Both main characters are sweet and multi dimensional, while also following a pretty classic couple pairing. It has a funny and sweet coming out, and some intense barriers throughout. I felt like the ending was a bit cheesy, but the rest of the book was good enough to make up for it.

Wow!!!

What An Emotional Ride This Book Was. I Laughed, Got Mad, Smiled And Believed In LOVE…

Wow, what else can I say????

This book was a rollercoaster! Definitely a great listen. In the beginning you don't really expect A.k and Joe to have a relationship but then towards the end we really start to see just how crazy both of the teens lives truly are. We get to see just how in love they are with each other.

absolutely stunning

What a gorgeous audiobook. Wonderful narration to match wonderful characters. I couldn't stop listening. it was magical to be inside Jo and Kurl's little universe.

Magnificent and Original Love Story

This book works because you fall in love with both of these guys and you're privy to their inner dialogue at every step. The characters are authentic and well voiced. The story takes a few unexpected turns. I enjoyed this immensely.