Review: Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver
Pub. Date: March 02, 2010
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Format: Hardcover, 480pp
Age Range: Young Adult

What if you had only one day to live? What would you do? Who would you kiss? And how far would you go to save your own life?

Samantha Kingston has it all: the world’s most crush-worthy boyfriend, three amazing best friends, and first pick of everything at Thomas Jefferson High, from the best table in the cafeteria to the choicest parking spot. Friday, February 12 should be just another day in her charmed life.

Instead, it turns out to be her last. Fortunately, she gets a second chance. Seven chances, in fact. Reliving her last day during one miraculous week, she will untangle the mystery surrounding her death—and discover the true value of everything she is in danger of losing.

Lauren Oliver pulled me into Before I Fall from page one and left me speechless by the end. I could not put it down! Reading from Samantha’s viewpoint had me reflecting back on my days in high school and I found myself wondering if I would want to change or do anything differently. Of course I would. Samantha’s clique was amongst the popular crowd and there were times I thought they were just plain mean but then again I can’t believe I’m saying this – It happens everywhere. Someone is always getting laughed at or made to be the butt of a joke. I know it doesn’t make it right but I could totally relate to Samantha. This is one of the reasons I fell in love with Before I Fall. I lived through Samantha’s eyes and couldn’t help but empathize with her the whole time.

Lauren took me on a rollercoaster of emotional rides throughout her narrative. There were times when I found myself upset, laughing, and crying while reading this book. The characters in this book are beyond realistic. There were times when Samantha would mention someone and it would remind me of people I knew high school with some of the same characteristics.

I realized as I’m writing this review that I can’t write about all the amazing things that I love about Before I Fall. Lauren’s writing is awe-inspiring. I loved this book from beginning to end. This is a novel that I will have no problems recommending to others. Before I Fall is a beautifully written page turner with lively characters who draw you into the deepest depth of their lives then forces you to take notice - you’ll find yourself not wanting to come up for air.

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars