45 pages • 1 hour read
If I Stay
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Book Brief
320
Novel • Fiction
Oregon • Contemporary
2009
YA
14-18 years
830L
Super Short Summary
If I Stay by Gayle Forman is set in a small, contemporary Oregon town and follows 17-year-old Mia’s struggle with life and death after a car accident kills her family and leaves her in a coma. The narrative switches between Mia’s past as a talented cellist with a quirky musical family and her comatose present, where her consciousness observes her loved ones as they urge her to wake. Sensitive topics include severe injury, death, and grief.
Emotional
Melancholic
Bittersweet
Contemplative
Romantic
Reviews & Readership
952,606 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Gayle Forman's If I Stay has elicited strong emotional responses from readers, with many praising its poignant narrative and relatable characters. The exploration of life-altering choices has been commended, though some found its pacing uneven and the storyline occasionally predictable. Balancing heartbreak with hope, the novel resonates particularly with young adult audiences.
Who Should Read If I Stay?
If you enjoy poignant, introspective young adult novels akin to John Green's The Fault in Our Stars or Jandy Nelson's I'll Give You the Sun, If I Stay by Gayle Forman will captivate you. Its emotional depth and exploration of love, loss, and difficult choices appeal to readers who appreciate character-driven stories with profound themes.
952,606 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Adam
Adam
Mia’s boyfriend, a college freshman and lead singer/guitarist for an emerging rock band, known for his dramatic flair and deep commitment to Mia.
Kim
Kim
Mia’s best friend, who shares her dry humor and conservative style, offering unwavering support and reasoned stability throughout tumultuous times.
Mia’s Mom
Mia’s Mom
A former rock enthusiast who transformed into a supportive and strong mother, encouraging Mia’s musical dreams and serving as a source of advice.
Mia’s Dad
Mia’s Dad
Once a musician, he chose family over career, providing loving support and modeling creativity and empathy for Mia.
320
Novel • Fiction
Oregon • Contemporary
2009
YA
14-18 years
830L
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