Review: Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

Before I Fall
by Lauren Oliver
(young adult, contemporary)
Published: March 2010
Publisher: Harper Collins
Hardcover: 496 pages
Purchase: Amazon ($7.99 at time of post)
5 butterflies

Synopsis
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.
Cover
To be honest, this cover doesn't do much for me. I mean, I love the photo but it doesn't scream "pick me pick me" like a lot of other book covers do. I'm a cover addict so I want an eye popping image that makes me want to read a book regardless of what the synopsis says. I don't really see how this fits the content. But still, it's a pretty image.
Characters
The characters in this book stick with you long after you're done reading. It took a while for me to get into Sam because she's your typical "I'm the ish" popular girl that runs around thinking her you know what doesn't stink. But as the story progresses I could see the transformation occurring. She is definitely one that will grow on you despite her rough beginning. She's probably my favorite character, ever. And Kent... what a breath of fresh air he was. Ugh, there couldn't be a more perfect guy for me. I mean... Sam.
Story
I am not a contemporary girl. Give me paranormal and horror any day. This was my very first contemporary read and I must say that if the rest of them are as good as this, consider me a fan. This book surprised me on so many levels. I only bought this book because it was such a great price and I was going to trade it for something more my taste. Then I accepted a challenge in which Before I Fall fit, and now I'm hooked.
This book makes you rethink your life. I have never had a book hit me on such an emotional level. Seriously, I almost don't know what to say because I loved it that much. I have read some pretty amazing books this year, but this one is by far my favorite. It hit me from out of left field and I'm still trying to get back up. I want to read it again right now. I could not recommend another book more than this one. I'd give it ten stars if I could.
Quote(s)
“That's the way I feel, at least: like there's a real me and a reflection of me, and I have no way of telling which is which.”
- I feel like this, a lot.
“Music, I think, he makes me feel like music.”
- I absolutely ADORE this line.
So... what do YOU think?
Are you a contemporary fan? Why or why not?
 
DISCLOSURE: All of the reviews posted are my opinions and mine alone. I am in no way paid for them. Every book reviewed was either purchased by me, received for free directly from the publisher/author specifically for review or received via: