You've Reached Sam

You’ve Reached Sam by Dustin Thao is a YA contemporary romance/magical realism novel published in 2021. The protagonist, high school senior Julie Clarke, tries to cope with the recent loss of Sam Obayashi, her beloved boyfriend of three years, who was killed in a car accident on his way to pick Julie up. Crushed, Julie isolates herself—not attending Sam’s funeral or vigils—and throws away most of his things. But when Julie spirals into grief and calls Sam’s phone number, he answers. Through the magical connection of their phones, Julie and Sam have a second chance at connection, and the opportunity for them to grieve, grow and change, and say goodbye. Among other accolades, the New York Times bestselling novel was a 2021 Kids‘ Indie Next List Selection, a Cosmo.com Best YA Book Of 2021, and a Goodreads Most Anticipated Book.

This study guide refers to the 2021 eBook edition published by St. Martin’s Press.

Plot Summary

High school senior Julie Clarke has lost Sam Obayashi, her beloved boyfriend of three years, in a tragic car accident. Sam died one week prior while driving to pick Julie up from the airport, though she told Sam she could walk home.