Title: Before I Fall
Author: Lauren Oliver
Publication Date: March 2, 2010
Published By: HarperCollins
Format: Paperback, 417 pages
*I purchased this book*
Summary
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.
Then 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.
My Thoughts
Before I Fall is a truly heartfelt story about friendship, love, life and death, but most of all, choice. It's also highly addictive, so when you read it make sure you have lots of time to do so. This is my first Lauren Oliver book and it won't be my last, she captivated me from the first sentence with her uncanny use of words, she puts so much depth and feeling in to the simplest sentences. I don't usually put quotes in my reviews but i'm breaking a rule here. "What a rebel right?" This part of the book is the kind where a sob gets stuck in your throat and your eyes get all blurry.
"Promise me you'll stay here with me?"
"I promise," he whispers.
And then, just at that moment, when I'm no longer sure if I'm awake or dreaming or walking some valley in between where everything you wish for comes true, I feel the flutter of his lips on mine, but it's too late, I'm slipping, I'm gone, he's gone, and the moment curls away and back on itself like a flower folding up for the night.
*sniffles* Beautiful huh? before you go thinking I ruined the book, it's not what you think, it's just a small part, I didn't give away the ending or anything.
I've never seen one character grow so much in one book. You watch Sam go from typical, vapid, popular girl, to someone who realizes her choices and actions effect everyone she comes in to contact with. Thus reigning in her petty ignorance and flippant attitude. I really started out not liking this girl, to being genuinely upset that she has to endure all of it.
The supporting characters in this book have a strong presence and are well developed. I cared about every single one, there is a part of all of them you can relate too. Lindsay, who covers insecurities with cattiness. Elody who just wants everyone to get along and forget the things in life that make you sad. Ally, the girl who seems to has everything money can buy, but not the things it can't . And then there's Kent, who is a scatterbrained disaster in a bowler hat and just wants to be Sam's hero.
Before I fall is the kind of book that really makes you take a look at yourself, and makes you realize that maybe something has to change. After all, today could be your last. If you haven't read this, do it. I laughed, I cried, I even got a little angry, but this book will forever be one of my favorites.
"I promise," he whispers.
And then, just at that moment, when I'm no longer sure if I'm awake or dreaming or walking some valley in between where everything you wish for comes true, I feel the flutter of his lips on mine, but it's too late, I'm slipping, I'm gone, he's gone, and the moment curls away and back on itself like a flower folding up for the night.
*sniffles* Beautiful huh? before you go thinking I ruined the book, it's not what you think, it's just a small part, I didn't give away the ending or anything.
I've never seen one character grow so much in one book. You watch Sam go from typical, vapid, popular girl, to someone who realizes her choices and actions effect everyone she comes in to contact with. Thus reigning in her petty ignorance and flippant attitude. I really started out not liking this girl, to being genuinely upset that she has to endure all of it.
The supporting characters in this book have a strong presence and are well developed. I cared about every single one, there is a part of all of them you can relate too. Lindsay, who covers insecurities with cattiness. Elody who just wants everyone to get along and forget the things in life that make you sad. Ally, the girl who seems to has everything money can buy, but not the things it can't . And then there's Kent, who is a scatterbrained disaster in a bowler hat and just wants to be Sam's hero.
Before I fall is the kind of book that really makes you take a look at yourself, and makes you realize that maybe something has to change. After all, today could be your last. If you haven't read this, do it. I laughed, I cried, I even got a little angry, but this book will forever be one of my favorites.
"I've never seen one character grow so much in one book. You watch Sam go from typical, vapid, popular girl, to someone who realizes her choices and actions effect everyone she comes in to contact with."
ReplyDeleteSo true. I loved this book so much. It will probably always be a favorite of mine. I'm glad you enjoyed it too. Delirium is excellent as well.
-Kim
I really like the plot! New twist on the groundhog day. :) and the cover is just gorgeous, very open and delicate, I like it. :)
ReplyDelete