Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

Katrine | Manalapan High School, Grade 11

Rating: ****

Samantha Kingston, a popular high school senior, was looking forward to spending "Cupid Day”- a party of valentines and roses-with her friends. This ends when she suddenly dies in a terrible car accident that night. However, instead of the book, Sam still wakes up the next morning. She lives the last day of her life seven times until she realizes she may hold more power than she ever imagined.

This novel was cruel and unfair, yet it’s also hopeful, authentic, and honest. The character development of Sam was astounding, and the character growth, drastic though it may be, was entirely believable. I feel this story allowed readers to realize that there is depth to us all and not everyone is perfect. This is definitely a read for you to gain a new perspective and admiration of what’s most important in your life.