In the first of Modern Bliss book recommendations, I’d like to suggest Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver.
I’m a big young adult reader, but I truly feel this book would appeal to all readers. The narrator is high school student Samantha Kingston, and the book follows her as she relives her last day on Earth seven times.
From the book jacket:
“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 12th, 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.”
This book takes an in-depth look at why people behave the way they do, and what’s really important. We may think only high school students care about social status, but in reality, adults care just as much (trust me – it drives me insane how focused people are on something so trivial). The thing I love about this novel is that it paints a different picture on the whole social aspect of life.
It’s easy to hate the popular crowd – easy to think they have the easy road, or are just plain evil, but often they have issues behind the masks they wear. Though it doesn’t excuse their behavior (because sometimes, it just ridiculous), it was interesting to read something that takes a unique look at this issue.
Plot aside, Lauren Oliver is a phenomenal writer and I’ll give anything she writes a chance. She’s able to look at the human psyche in a raw way that’s captivating.
Author | Amanda Plavich | Co-owner, Modern Bliss, LLC
*Disclaimer – link takes you to Amazon via Modern Bliss referral link*
I love young adult books! I’m adding this one to my list!
I can’t wait to read this one! I’m reading her other new book, Delirium, right now.
Very interesting! Along the vein of “everything I need to know I learned in kindergarten” sometimes people have to realize the things they failed to learn about social circle/skills when they were in high school. I will have to check it out!
Thanks for doing this!!! I’m always looking for new books, and I’m a big young adult fan too..adding it my Nook tonight!!
I downloaded this to my NOOK over the weekend and am HOOKED! I can’t put it down. Thanks for the recommendation!