Foreman, G. (2009). If I Stay. London: Doubleday [Young Adult’s Fiction: Realistic Fiction]
Set in current day North America, If I Stay is focalised through Mia, a seventeen year old girl and talented musician with everything to live for. That is, before one cold and frosty morning when she, along with her family, are involved in a devastating car crash. Mum, Dad and younger brother Teddy are all dead but Mia, who is in a coma with severe injuries, must make the most important decision she has ever faced; choose death and join the rest of her family or stay and face life without them.Teenagers will easily relate to Mia as she looks back on her life so far and reflects on family, friends, relationships, death and her life ambitions should she choose to live.Written with an easy going and teen-friendly style, the story flows well. The use emotive language will draw the reader into Mia’s mind, challenging them to consider life choices and ultimately leads them to ask the heart-wrenching question; what would I do?
This book is suitable for young adults aged between fourteen and eighteen years.