Prompt 01
It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover
AP LiteratureCommon Core ElaIB Language & Literature
In It Ends With Us, Colleen Hoover explores how breaking cycles of abuse demands not just immense courage but also a painful reevaluation of what love truly means. In a well-structured essay, discuss how Lily Bloom's journey shows that real strength lies not in enduring suffering, but in the decision to put a stop to it. Use specific examples from the novel — including Lily's relationships with Ryle and Atlas, her memories of her father, and her own internal struggles — to back up your argument.
Guiding Questions to Consider
- How does Hoover use Lily's childhood observations of her parents' relationship to foreshadow and frame her own experiences with Ryle?
- In what ways does the novel challenge idealized views of love and sacrifice?
- How does Lily's ultimate decision serve as both a personal and a generational act of bravery?
Requirements
- Minimum 5 paragraphs (introduction, 3 body paragraphs, conclusion)
- Include a clear, debatable thesis statement
- Cite at least three specific scenes or passages from the novel as evidence
- Address and counter at least one opposing argument