If I Stay

Forman, G. (2009). If I Stay. New York: Dutton Books.

If I Stay is a popular book that made it to NYT Bestseller list. Seventeen year-old Mia has suffered a car accident that changed every aspect of her life in a matter of seconds. She has no recollection of the accident, but only watching her own body taken to the hospital after the wreck. Throughout the story, Mia is piecing together the event of her accident to figure out what has happened to her family. She is in a state of unconsciousness and struggles to decide whether she should come back to life or just let go. As she discovers what she has lost and what her knew life would entail she finally makes the decision to fight to come back to life. This book is a must read for grades 7 and up. I also recommend it to all types of readers that enjoy suspense, romance and realistic fiction with an unpredictable plot. This book will keep you guessing and changing your mind about what will be Mia’s final decision; to live or die. As plus for reluctant readers and lovers of drama, this book has been made into a movie. I love the theme of the value of life that can be useful in the classroom. Mia truly analyzes the pros and cons before she can come to a decision. I wonder what great discussions students can contribute to upon reading this book.