Reading level: Young Adult
Hardcover: 272 pages
Publisher: HarperTeen (September 6, 2011)
Author's Website: http://www.jennifercastle.com/
Buy the Book: Amazon
Sixteen-year-old Laurel's world changes instantly when her parents and brother are killed in a terrible car accident. Behind the wheel is the father of her bad-boy neighbor, David Kaufman, whose mother is also killed. In the aftermath of the tragedy, Laurel navigates a new reality in which she and her best friend grow apart, boys may or may not be approaching her out of pity, overpowering memories lurk everywhere, and Mr. Kaufman is comatose but still very much alive. Through it all, there is David, who swoops in and out of Laurel's life and to whom she finds herself attracted against her better judgment. She will forever be connected to him by their mutual loss, a connection that will change them both in unexpected ways.
I had just finished reading "If I Stay
I liked this book very much. The story is sweet and gentle, heartfelt and real. Laurel's journey through grief is long and difficult. It is a totally new and unexpected experience for her and she is very unsure about how to handle it. There isn't just the grief of losing her family but also the instant notoriety of being "that girl". People whisper about her, talk to her in hushed tones and even avoid her. There are complications with her best friend Meg, a possible boyfriend named Joe and the disturbing presence of David, the other surviving teen. This story struck me quite personally because I have a daughter and son-in-law who have a family including a 16 year old granddaughter and 2 younger children....and I am called Nana by them. Although Laurel is the main character, I kept thinking about her Nana and how they had to support each other through terrible circumstances. I cannot even imagine having to go through such a tragedy let alone having to be the rock for a young woman at the same time.
Laurel's story progresses day by day with ups and downs. She slowly regains her footing in life and begins to figure out what her future will look like. This was a very good story with a good message and believable, likeable characters. I definitely recommend it.
- Sexual Content: Moderate
- Profanity: Moderate
- Violence: None
- Other Notables: Underage Drinking, Discussion of Suicide
For more details check out The Beginning of After on Parental Book Reviews.
I am so happy to hear that this book was wonderful. It's one I'm really looking forward to. I'm particularly happy that her grief seems slow and realistic. Thanks for the review!
ReplyDeleteI just received this book from netgalley. I can not wait to read it.
ReplyDeleteGreat review!
Old follower
Kristina
http://ladybugstorytime.blogspot.com/
really looking forward to this book! and now even more since If I Stay and Where She Went are one of my favorite books EVER! thanks for this!
ReplyDeleteOh, I want to read this books so bad! I'm glad you liked it. Great review!
ReplyDeleteJaneth!!! I love your reviews!!!
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like a great book. I must got see if I can find it on NetGalley.
I'm jealous I want to read this one! I'm glad that you enjoyed the story though and your review makes me want to read it even more, if that's even possible at this point.
ReplyDeleteI'm very excited about this one, sounds sad but hopeful
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed the review. The book looks amazing with a realistic history that can happen with anyone.
ReplyDeleteI liked. If I have the opportunity for read it I will.
Great review :)
ReplyDeleteGreat review l am glad to hear this is as good as it sounds =)
ReplyDelete