Thursday, May 27, 2010

Book Recommendation - If I Stay

If I Stay
By Gayle Forman


The blurb: "In a single moment, everything changes. Seventeen-year-old Mia has no memory of the accident; she can only recall riding along the snow-wet Oregon road with her family. Then, in a blink, she finds herself watching as her own damaged body is taken from the wreck...
A sophisticated, layered, and heartachingly beautiful story about the power of family and friends, the choices we all make—and the ultimate choice Mia commands."

This is a novel that you devour in one sitting, and spend the next few days thinking back on. It is haunting and beautiful, heartbreaking and uplifting all at once. This is the kind of book that makes you question yourself, and really think twice.

A book hasn't affected me like this in a very long time. I was weary of reading it to be honest. I'm quite emotional when it comes to kids, and I wasn't sure I could handle the premise.

The thing is, the story is written in such a way that, while sad, I didn't cry. I felt like an observer -- not a part of Mia's world. It really helped to have that distance, because while I was emotionally invested in the story, I didn't feel like the author was making my heart break just to keep my attention. She didn't have to. And the result was this phenomenal, life-changing novel about Mia's choice to live or die.
It really will leave you wondering, "What would I do?"
This is probably one of the best books I have ever read. Honestly. And I feel like I could read it 100 more times and never get tired of it, always come away with a new lesson.

Read it.

8 comments:

Unknown said...

Holly I think this is honestly the best review I've ever read, that or I'm just really happy to hear how powerful and beautiful the story is.

I am really wanting to read this and after what I just read I know it's worth it. My favorite kind of stories are the one's that make you look at yourself, your life and everything else around you.

Beautifully written, thank you!

Holly Hill said...

Thanks, Jen. I love stories like this too that put life into perspective. It is definitely worth the read.

You'll have to let me know what you think of it once you finish.

Jessica Bell said...

You like being disconnected? I've never heard anyone say that before. I LOVE having my heart break when I read. It means it's good writing. Interesting!

Holly Hill said...

AA- I don't normally like being disconnected at all. But on this occasion, it worked.

A year ago I may not have liked it as much, being disconnected. But my 19 year-old brother was killed tragically not even a year ago. I know I'd have never made it through this book if it had been written just to make me cry.

Jessica Bell said...

:( I'm so sorry to hear that, Holly! Well that just makes complete sense. xx

Creepy Query Girl said...

I will! I've never read a review where the reader was so changed and passionate about the book- its wonderful!

Anonymous said...

This is such a lovely review. I have heard so many good things about IF I STAY, and this review has certainly convinced me to give the book a chance. :)

LTM said...

wow! I found your review via CQG, and now I'm def. reading this book. I've been looking at it and looking at it inthe bookstores (I like the title), and you've convinced me. I'm going to give it a read! Thanks! :o)