If I Stay
by Gayle Forman

    IF I STAY by Gayle Forman
    Category:  Contemporary
    Age Recommendation:  Grades 9+
    Release Date:  4/2/09
    Publisher:  Dutton
    Reviewed by:  Sarah Bean the Green Bean Teen Queen
    Rating:  5 Stars


    Mia has a lot to love in life.  She is a cellist who could be on her way to Julliard.  She has a wonderful, loving, and
    supportive family.  And she has a boyfriend who is perfect.  But as wonderful as Mia’s life is, she has choices to
    make.  Should she go to Julliard and leave everyone behind?

    When a terrible accident occurs, Mia suddenly finds herself with only one choice left - should she stay?

    This book is just WOW!  Do not read this in public because this one will bring tears to your eyes - I'm warning
    you! That doesn't mean it doesn't have humor though, because there were many times I found myself laughing out
    loud. This is an intense story that will not only appeal to teens, but have a lot of crossover adult appeal, as well.

    Gayle Forman does an excellent job going from Mia's present to Mia's past and drawing the reader in so they truly
    understand her love for the cello, her family, and Adam, her boyfriend. As I was reading, I felt like I really got to
    know Mia and her family and found myself grieving along with Mia - the writing is just that powerful.

    IF I STAY is a short read, but it packs so much in and I wanted to savor every moment. At times I found myself
    reading slower and drinking in the words because I didn't want the story to end.  

    The story centers around music: Mia with her cello, Adam with his band, and Mia's dad being a drummer, and
    Gayle Forman's writing felt lyrical. She was able to capture music and put it into a book. I don't know how to
    describe it, but it was like I was reading a song - hopefully that makes sense!  Music is such an important part of
    the book, Gayle Forman has included a playlist for the book on her website.  I loved checking out the songs that
    went along with the story and listening to them when Mia did.

    IF I STAY is a must-read.  The themes of love, loss, grief, and hope are so powerful and beautifully written that
    this story will stay with you long after you finish the last page.