A review by betweentheshelves
You've Reached Sam by Dustin Thao

emotional sad slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

This is definitely a book that you need to be in the right mindset to read, becuase it is heavy. It's a close look at grief, specifically grief when someone young dies unexpectedly. Thao hits the nail on the head with the emotions throughout the book, with learning how to accept the tragedy and eventually move on from it.

One of the best aspects of this book is the way that Julie's friendships shift throughout the novel, keeping pace with her own struggles with her grief. Not only are Julie and Sam fully fleshed out characters, but so are their friends. And through their interactions, you can see how grief plays out differently for different people. The writing overall is effective and tugs at your heartstrings.

If you're looking for a YA that really takes a close look at grief and the overall process of grief, this is definitely the book you're looking for. Just maybe read something light and fun after you're done with this one.
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