There is quite a possibility that there will be two posts today (depends on how I am feeling). This first book is one of a pair, both I finished recently. I kind of feel like I should review both at the same time.

If I Stay by Gayle Forman

Seventeen-year-old Mia has it all - a fun-loving set of parents (both of whom love music), an adorable little brother, and a punk-rock boyfriend on his way up. She also has a promising career playing the cello and is anxiously awaiting the news as to whether or not she made it into Julliard. In one split turn of a wheel on a snowy Oregon road, Mia's life is shattered. In a flash, Mia finds herself watching her broken body being hauled from the car wreck her family experienced. While she doesn't remember the accident, she finds herself weighing the benefits of staying in her present life or moving on.

If I Stay is a beautifully woven tale, piecing together Mia's memories of how her life got to it's current point and her loved one's reactions to the accident. While the book does not always move quickly, it is a poignant discussion on what makes life worth living. I also find it interesting how the author commented on the question of what happens after death. Choice plays a large role in this book, however, Forman also weaves in the reality that we don't always get to choose. I highly recommend this book as a thought-provoker.