Book: After Life
Author: Gayle Forman
Published: January 7, 2025
Publisher: Quill Tree Books
Genre: YA contemporary
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About After Life
One afternoon, Amber rides home after school on her bike. To her, it’s like any other day, but when her mom sees her, she screams. That’s because 7 years ago, she died from a hit and run on the very bike she just rode home on.
Amber’s life isn’t the only one that’s changed. Her sister is older, her parents are divorced, and her friends have changed. Is there any way to go back to the way it used to be?
What I thought
After Life was a random pick-up for me. I went to a bookstore a couple of hours away and just so happened to see this book. It has been a long time since I’ve read anything by Gayle. The last time was probably in high school. I don’t even know why. I’m so glad that I picked one up.
I know I would probably act a lot like the mom in the book if someone I loved “came back”. Part of me would probably be a little mad, at least unintentionally. I guess some people would need the closure, and I’m sure I probably would have to to some degree.
After Life is a great way to make someone really think about how they would handle things if they were given a chance to see their loved one for one last time.
I love how in the book you see the family react in different ways. One is accepting and thinks it’s a miracle. And then there’s one who is in denial and angry because all of this is such a cruel joke.
I feel like just about anyone would have at least one of these reactions. Part of me wishes that everyone had this opportunity.
The characters are very well done through the grief, happiness, and shock. It handles a very delicate situation in a great way. The story keeps you engaged really well, too. However, I am a little sad about how it ended. I get it, I really do, but I guess I just wish there was a little different. You’ll see what I mean if you wind up reading the book.
If you like this book review, then maybe you’ll like my review of other contemporary books.