IF I STAY by Gayle Forman

In the blink of an eye everything changes. Seventeen ­year-old Mia has no memory of the accident; she can only recall what happened afterwards, watching her own damaged body being taken from the wreck. Little by little she struggles to put together the pieces- to figure out what she has lost, what she has left, and the very difficult choice she must make. Heartwrenchingly beautiful, Mia's story will stay with you for a long, long time.

I've been wanting to read this book for a long time, and this weekend, I decided that I was going to read it no matter what. And boy, am I glad I did!

This is one amazing and powerful story. The premise is heartbreaking and made tears rush to my eyes--many times--but there were also so many moments filled with wonderful joy. Mia's going through a terrible ordeal, caught in limbo, being aware of what's happened to her family and of the suffering those around her are going through, but is unable to do anything about it. Nothing, but watch.

She takes us on a journey through the happy moments in her life, the incredible relationship she had with her parents and younger brother, boyfriend, and best friend...

Her story was overwhelming, so emotional that I felt it soul-deep. And I enjoyed every single moment of it. I absolutely adored this book. It took my breath away, and really makes you realise that life can slip away from you at any moment. We need to live every moment to the fullest, appreciate what we have, and rejoice in the love we're lucky enough to experience.

Do yourself a favour and read this amazing book. This is a book that'll always hold a special place in my heart. I loved it. Words can't express just how special this book is.

Now, I can't wait to read the next one.

Books Read So Far in 2011: 16/100