Book Review - Before I Fall

Before I Fall 

by Lauren Oliver

Paperback,

470 pages

Published March 2nd 2010 

by HarperCollins

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. (Goodreads summary)

We've read it. We've seen the movie. This concept of one day to do over and over and over again until they get it right. It is done and then done over and over and over again. And yet, if done well, it can escape the cliche and become something beautiful. This is exactly what Lauren Oliver has achieved with Before I  Fall. Because it isn't about the familiar story, it is about this story. The story of a girl who seems to have it all until all she has left are seven days to discover what life is actually about. 

I admit, I was apprehensive to read this book. It sounded depressing. And, it is depressing. But it is also beautiful and relatable. Sam is horrible. She is nasty and unlikeable (at first) but gives enough vulnerability to prove that she will undergo a transformation. And as she lives the same day over and over, she learns to look outside herself. And she grows into somebody that we just want to succeed in changing her fate. She becomes a beautiful character worth the 400 page investment. 

Full of vividly painted characters, heartwarming moments, tragedy, and second chances, Before I Fall is a book worth reading. But remember the tissue box, you are going to need it.