A tragic love story that deals with grief and second chances.
SPOILERS!
What is it about
It is a story of a 17 year old girl called Julie, who is grieving for her boyfriend Sam, who was killed in a car accident. It is told in a present day and flashback format, focusing on the different stages of Julie’s grief process, and their relationship. When her phone rings and she hears Sam’s voice on the other line, she is given a second chance to say goodbye.
What I liked about it
The book shows people grieve in different ways, and Julie’s friends show readers how to support somebody who is grieving. Her friends are understanding and allow her the space to process her grief without pressuring her to join in their activities.
For some readers, the magical realism aspect of the book can be slightly discombobulating. If we can suspend our disbelief for a while, we will learn in time that the phone calls from Sam is simply Julie’s way of processing her grief. Hearing his voice and having conversations with him help Julie move on.
I love the chemistry between Julie and Sam, even if they were portrayed as nauseatingly perfect couple! Through Julie’s memories of Sam, readers can sense a strong connection and can understand Julie’s grief. I thought the author tackled their connection beautifully and captured the pain of losing somebody in a sensitive manner.
It is a YA novel, but can appeal to anybody who enjoys a tragic love story.