Review: Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

Book: Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver
Pages: 470
Publisher: HarperCollins
Source: ARC won (long ago) and signed
Links: Goodreads | Amazon

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.

Then 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. 

Before I Fall is beautiful, gritty, and powerful.


The writing was beautiful, it just sucked me in from page one. The plot was well developed and presented in an outstanding job. I could probably go on for miles about how amazing this book was, but what really made me love this book was Sam's voice and the developments her character goes through. In my opinion, Sam went through "the butterfly method" (something I just made up right now).

The Butterfly Method

Caterpillar stage: Sam's got it all, and to top it off, she's a total grade A (excuse my language) bitch. Hell, I didn't even like her!

Cocoon stage: Sam dies and relives each last day seven times. This was probably my favorite and my least favorite part. This stage contains many heart warming, tear-jerking, "OMG", and "WTF" moments which I loved and hated. I loved because this part was written so beautifully and I could actually connect with Sam and almost feel what she's going through. I hated it because some parts were just so sad and it made my heart break into little pieces. What she goes through has made me understand how precious and fragile life truly is.

Butterfly stage: The ending for Sam wrapped up nicely. No loose ends, no questions. Just the way I liked my ending. I don't want to say too much because I might spoil it...

Another thing I liked about this book was the supporting characters. One reading pet peeve for me is when authors write about teenagers and it sounds so cliche and cheesy. Lauren avoided this disaster thankfully! Each of them were written in such a genuine, raw manner with a little story to tell as well. 

In all, this book was just awesome. Hands down. I'd re-read this another day, but someone seriously had the guts to never give me back my signed ARC copy (and honestly, I don't know where that person is since they moved). I'm definitely going to buy my own copy though. 

Rating: 5+ Stars

Cover: It's mesmerizing and gorgeous, just like the book itself. 5/5 Stars.