Really 4.5 stars.

I heard so many good things about this book, and I was not disappointed. This book was beautifully crafted, by turns amusing, poignant, and touching.

If I Stay shows Mia throughout the course of a day while she’s in a coma. Told in a mixture of present events and various flashbacks, the reader follows Mia’s thoughts as she tries to decide the most important question—will she stay?

The narrative is completely engaging. Even though times and events are not always clearly delineated, the story is never confusing, and the fluctuation fits the character and story very well. Each event recounted was important to Mia’s decision, fully creating her world, her family, and her life. I especially liked how even the minor characters were given their own scene, their own place in Mia’s memories.

As a musician, I loved that Mia was a cellist, and I loved the juxtaposition of classical artists with rock bands. Mia has a passion for music, but she is truly in love with her boyfriend—but he is also a musician and pursuing his own career. This is always a problem for musicians, so this issue really hit home. But even though there are musical references throughout, it doesn’t take a musician to appreciate the book. The characters are all relatable, and the lessons that Mia learns are applicable to many situations.

Because of the nature of this book, I’m not sure that saying I loved is it the right expression, but it is truly a wonderful book. Moreover, it offers lots of food for thought amidst a well-written narrative. I absolutely cannot wait for the sequel, Where She Went, due out in February next year. Gayle Forman delivered a compelling book and one that will stick with me.