The best book for teenagers to read is “If He Had Been With Me”. The book shows the main character, Autumn, navigating her stressful high school life.
Laura Nowlin’s book is the perfect book for teenagers because she explains the highs and lows of high school relationships and what can happen in these situations. This book is realistic fiction. The author went through many of the same things the main character Autumn went through. Nowlin does not only show the ups and downs of relationships, but also home life and the reality of high schoolers. The point of view of this book is from Autumn’s perspective. Readers know how she is feeling through all of the story which really gives the book more meaning and feelings because she controls the tone by addressing her own thoughts and feelings.
The main themes of this book are fate and missed connections. Autumn and Finny, who were childhood bestfriends, have always had a romantic connection to each other. Finny tragically passes away when in the car with his ex-girlfriend, Sylvie. Autumn is left to navigate her pregnancy journey all by herself. She always thinks, “If he had been with me, then none of this would have happened”.
Nowlin’s book does not compare to other love stories or romantic teenage love stories. Some other books such as “To All The Boys I Loved Before” or “No Feelings Involved” finish with happy endings. Nowlin’s book is the one book that shows the harsh reality of teen love and does not sugar coat it. Her book also gives examples of normal everyday struggles and does not only focus on their love lifes.
Many personal examples of people in this high school can be related to this book and its plot. Many teens in this school are involved in mentally draining relationships, just like Autumn and her ex-boyfriend, Jamie. Autumn also ends up pregnant with Finny’s baby before he is killed. She has to figure out life with a baby without him. Some teens in the school have been pregnant and it is mentally and physically draining.
Laura Nowlin’s book advocates to teenagers, which is why teenagers should consider reading it. “If He Had Been With Me” is a beautifully crafted novel about love, loss and the complex nature of human connections. This book will stay with readers long after they turn the last page.