A review by annagwritesandreads
You've Reached Sam by Dustin Thao
emotional
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
This was a very emotionally driven book. Julie has to handle the death of Sam, her long time boyfriend, while trying to maintain a 'normal' high school life.
Julie calls Sam one day and he happens to answer. They remain connected. But what does happen if we remain connected with the dead? How can we or the dead move on?
I wish this book established Julie and Sam's relationship a bit more in the beginning. I feel like you jumped right into the grief and not in a good way. I was confused and had no idea what was going on, having to re-listening to bits and pieces to make sure I didn't miss anything.
However, I still think after you get to know Julie and Sam, it is a beautiful story. The ending though? I feel like that was not how the book should have ended based on all the clues set before in the book. I also did not like how unclear some of the side plots were? I feel like this was trying to have more representation than it actually did? If it takes place in our modern day world, then there should be clearer explanations of certain side characters.
Overall, it was an okay read, but probably a better read if you are in the mood for an emotional book.
Julie calls Sam one day and he happens to answer. They remain connected. But what does happen if we remain connected with the dead? How can we or the dead move on?
I wish this book established Julie and Sam's relationship a bit more in the beginning. I feel like you jumped right into the grief and not in a good way. I was confused and had no idea what was going on, having to re-listening to bits and pieces to make sure I didn't miss anything.
However, I still think after you get to know Julie and Sam, it is a beautiful story. The ending though? I feel like that was not how the book should have ended based on all the clues set before in the book. I also did not like how unclear some of the side plots were? I feel like this was trying to have more representation than it actually did? If it takes place in our modern day world, then there should be clearer explanations of certain side characters.
Overall, it was an okay read, but probably a better read if you are in the mood for an emotional book.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Grief
Minor: Car accident