Where She Went: A Book Review

Hello!

Where She Went by Gayle Forman

Summary: It has been three years since the devastating car crash, and it has been three years since Mia broke Adam’s heart. Now, Mia has regained her strength to play her beloved cello and Adam is the lead singer in the band, Shooting Star. One night, when Adam has a day all to himself, and Mia is starring in a concert, they find themselves catching up while touring New York. Adam has so many questions, as does Mia. Why did Mia break up with Adam? What have they both been doing since they departed? And most importantly, why did Adam ask Mia to stay? In that one night, Mia and Adam revisit their past and open their hearts to one another. But is it for the better, or for the worse?

My Thoughts: Ooh… I am such a fan of Gayle Forman! I read the initial story, If I Stay, in the summer and adored it, so I am surprised at the amount of time it took for me to get my hands on this one! I enjoyed both stories equally, but for different reasons. I was happy to see that Mia was doing well, despite her injuries from the car crash. I am amazed by her recovery! Mia relied on her support system {her grandparents, Kim, Ernesto} but is still independent,  unlike Adam, who chose to ignore everyone and everything in his life. To be honest, Adam was a complete mess! He obviously had mental issues, and he whined and complained constantly until the very end. I kept asking myself, “Where is the sweet and caring Adam from If I Stay?” I know he experienced heartbreak, but he needed to grow up. But, my feelings changed for him at the end :) Speaking of the ending, I can’t say how much I liked it! Gayle Forman wrapped the story up with great closure, and left Mia and Adam in the perfect place. I just don’t want to give too much away! The music factor was a great touch, and added that little something to the plot. I enjoyed reading the lyrics in the beginning of each chapter, and how it gave the reader a foreshadow to what the plot was about. Sequels are challenging, especially when the first novel was such a hit, but in this case, the author pulled it off. Terrific job on Gayle Forman’s part!

Pros: A FAB sequel! Real characters that you can not only see, but actually feel their emotions.

Cons: A s…l…o…w… plot, in which, not even Mia {one of my favorite characters!} could save me from boredom in some chapters. However, the short chapters helped move the story along.

Heads Up: I wouldn’t necessarily call Adam a role model ;) Language, drugs and smoking, as well as a very romantic scene.

Overall: I give it 4 1/2 stars for a solid sequel. I recommend it for ages 13 and up, mostly because of the mature contents.

Can’t wait!!!

Did you watch “Glee” last night? I was a bit disappointed. The previews made me anticipate an outstanding episode, but the return of Sam and Sectionals were a big letdown. Next week’s Christmas special looks silly, and I am looking forward to it!

Bella :)

If anyone knows how to add snow to your blog, I would love to know how! Thanks for your help! B :)