The Same Backward as Forward

Jennifer Lynn Barnes

47 pages 1-hour read

Jennifer Lynn Barnes

The Same Backward as Forward

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2025

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Part 2, Chapters 1-21Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of illness, death, addiction, suicidal ideation, and substance use.

Part 2: “Toby”

Part 2, Chapter 1 Summary

Toby awakes to nothing but pain but is instantly taken by Hannah, her care, and her eyes. He doesn’t know how long he’s been unconscious or where he is, but Hannah’s gentleness and warmth soothe him. He asks her to let him die, but she answers that he won’t be so lucky.

Part 2, Chapter 2 Summary

Toby is in constant agony but sets his sights on Hannah and distracts himself with puzzles. He tries not to need her but knows that he depends on her for everything both physically and emotionally. When he wakes up later, Hannah tells him that he has amnesia, and Jackson gives him the name Harry since he cannot remember his own. Toby can sense that there is more to what has happened than they are letting on. He decides that Hannah will be his new puzzle to figure out.

Part 2, Chapter 3 Summary

Toby makes a game of trying to notice something new about himself and then something new about Hannah. He discovers that he hates boredom but that Hannah is never boring. He also finds that he hates being told what to do and that Hannah keeps her emotions hidden. Toby feels like he’s dying but notices that Hannah is in pain, too.

blurred text
blurred text
blurred text

Unlock all 47 pages of this Study Guide

Get in-depth, chapter-by-chapter summaries and analysis from our literary experts.

  • Grasp challenging concepts with clear, comprehensive explanations
  • Revisit key plot points and ideas without rereading the book
  • Share impressive insights in classes and book clubs