Before I Fall

Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

Synopsis (From Barnes & Noble)
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 12 should be just another day in her charmed life.

Instead, it turns out to be her last.

Fortunately, 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.


My thoughts

What would you do if you could relive the last day of your life over? That is what happens to Sam in Before I Fall. Sam and her friends are the popular girls in their school. They are not exactly the nicest of girls. They do not care who they step on to elevate themselves up the popularity ladder in school. The book opens on February 12Th which is Cupid Day at their school. A day when flowers are passed out in classes bought by friends and admirers. The more popular you are, the more flowers you receive. Sam and her friends pull some pretty hurtful hi jinks on Cupid Day. These girls are emotional bullies. Sam is also involved with Rob who is also bad news. This day happens to be Sam's last due to a tragic accident after leaving a party that night. The next day Sam awakens again only to relive the whole day over. She soon learns that by changing her actions the outcome of the day changes. I really had a strong dislike for Sam in the beginning of the book. By the end I mostly felt sorry for her. Reading this book was like being on an emotional roller coaster. It takes Sam reliving quite a few days to figure out what it is she needs to do. This book is interesting as it does make one think about how their actions do affect others. Even the smallest thing can affect someone else in a big way. I would give this book 4 stars.

(I received this book as part of the Barnes and Noble First Look Book Club.)