If He Had Been With Me
Honestly? I struggled getting through the first 2/3’s of it. I feel like we stuck with the middle school mentality too long. I just kept thinking “ugh typical kids…”
That last 1/3 though? That made up for all of it.
And that ending? Broke my heart.
Reading "If He Had Been With Me" was a rollercoaster of emotions for me. At first, I found myself frustrated with the characters, feeling like they were stuck in a typical middle school scenario, repeating the cliched drama that we often see in teenage stories. However, as the story progressed into the last third, I was completely drawn in by the depth of their growth and the realistic portrayal of adolescent struggles. The novel beautifully captures that bittersweet nostalgia of youth — the confusion, the misunderstandings, and the silent feelings that often go unspoken between friends on the verge of becoming something more. Laura Nowlin’s writing skillfully balances humor, awkwardness, and heartfelt moments, which made the characters feel genuine and relatable. What truly set this book apart for me was the ending. It was unexpected and deeply emotional, leaving me reflecting on the complexities of young love and friendship. The heartache and the what-ifs resonated strongly, reminding me of my own experiences and the bittersweet nature of growing up. If you're someone who enjoys coming-of-age stories that don't shy away from the rawness of teenage emotions, this book is a great pick. Also, the recognition as a #1 New York Times bestseller speaks volumes about how many readers have connected with it. Whether you’re a parent reading alongside your teen or just someone who loves a good emotional read, "If He Had Been With Me" offers a poignant exploration of the challenges and beauty of youth.
The second one hurt me more then the first one