Review: If I Stay by Gayle Forman

I have a wide variety of interests when it comes to reading which then spreads to me enjoying a plethora of genres. Once in awhile, however, there comes a book that transcends its genre. In other words, it doesn't matter if it's fantasy, young adult or a classic - when a book is spectacular, it has the ability to mean something to you.

With that said, If I Stay by Gayle Forman can be considered one of those books. It's the story of 17 year old cello prodigy Mia and the fateful day her parents took her and her little brother on a short road trip on a snowy day that would forever change her life.

There's an accident, but the real story begins after it since Mia appears to exist outside of her body. She watches the scenes unfold before her and struggles with understanding what has happened. What ensues is a heart-wrenching tale of what has happened to Mia and the decisions that she will have to make.

Between the moments in which Mia is watching herself in present time, the author includes flashbacks of certain times in her life. This proves very effectual as each remembrance is linked to what she is experiencing/feeling/witnessing in present time.  The language flows well to evoke feelings in the reader. The flashbacks add to this as well since they are told in great detail and serve as a reminder to what she has both gained and lost.

This book already has a sequel out called Where She Went. I don't believe in spoiling others' enjoyment so I won't say anything particular about the context of this book. However, what I will say is that it is a spectacular sequel to the first book and is told in another individual's point of view. I found this book to be a surprise as I did not expect the way it opened.

All in all - a wonderful follow up!