Why Me Before You by Jojo Moyes Is a Book That Teaches Us About Caring and Courage

Me Before You by Jojo Moyes is a book that many people remember because of the way it makes them think and feel. It’s not just a love story — it’s a story about kindness, friendship, courage, and learning how to care for someone else in the best way you can.
Even though this book is written for older readers, its message about empathy (understanding others’ feelings) and bravery is something everyone can appreciate. Let’s explore why Me Before You is a book that touches hearts.
A Story of Two Different Lives
The heart of Me Before You is the connection between two people who seem very different at first. One is Louisa (often called Lou), a cheerful young woman who is trying to figure out what she wants to do with her life. The other is Will, a man who is facing some very difficult challenges.
When Lou becomes part of Will’s world, both of their lives start to change. They teach each other lessons about courage, patience, and looking at life in new ways.
This book reminds readers that we can learn and grow through the people we meet, even when their lives are very different from our own.
Kindness Can Change Everything
One of the most beautiful things about Me Before You is how it shows the power of kindness. Louisa doesn’t have all the answers. She doesn’t always know what to do or say. But she tries. She listens. She cares.
The book shows that small acts of kindness — like sharing a laugh, spending time together, or simply being present — can make a big difference. It teaches us that you don’t have to be perfect to be helpful. You just have to care.
The Courage to Try
Both Louisa and Will have moments in the story where they have to be brave. Lou learns to try new things and step outside her comfort zone. Will teaches Lou to see the world in different ways, encouraging her to dream bigger.
Me Before You shows that courage isn’t just about big, daring adventures. It can also mean trying to understand someone else’s point of view or finding the strength to face a tough day.
This kind of courage is something readers of any age can relate to and admire.
Finding Joy in Small Moments
Another lovely part of this book is how it shows that joy can come from simple, everyday things. A funny conversation. A shared meal. A walk outside.
Lou and Will remind readers to look for happiness in small moments — and to appreciate the people who share those moments with us.
The book encourages us to slow down, pay attention to the world around us, and be thankful for the little things that make life special.
What This Book Teaches Us
Me Before You gently teaches readers many important lessons without ever feeling like a lecture. Some of these lessons include:
- Kindness matters more than you think. A caring heart can brighten someone’s life.
- Bravery comes in many forms. Sometimes being brave means trying something new or standing beside someone who needs you.
- It’s okay to be unsure. Lou doesn’t always know what the right thing is — and that’s okay. What matters is that she keeps trying.
- Listening is powerful. Taking time to truly hear what someone else is saying can bring people closer together.
Why Me Before You Stays With Readers
What makes Me Before You so memorable is how real it feels. The characters aren’t perfect. They feel joy, sadness, hope, and doubt — just like we do. The book doesn’t promise a fairy-tale ending, but it does promise honesty and heart.
Readers finish this novel feeling as if they’ve been on a journey of learning — about love, friendship, strength, and what it means to care deeply for someone.
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes is a book that teaches us about the power of kindness, the beauty of friendship, and the courage it takes to care for others. It reminds us that helping someone else can change our life too — and that small moments of connection can leave a lasting mark on our hearts.