Amelia's final year at school is more fraught than expected, if that's even possible. Not only does Art, the one subject that means the world to Amelia, tighten the screws, her Dad starts to do weird things and so does her best friend.
I see everything through Amelia's eyes, which makes me feel stranded at times. Amelia doesn't always take in all the details, but that's what it's like when your world free falls. Knowing this doesn't stop me from wanting to give her a good poke from time to time, though.
With early onset Alzheimer's, anorexia and disintegrating families taking central focus, I felt my heart breaking for Amelia one moment, then daring to hope for her the next.
If these issues are in your life, Before You Forget might feel too raw to face. But with Julia Lawrinson as your guide, know you are safe. You will come out the other end. Battered, maybe. Bruised, for sure, but still in one piece and ready to move on.
I cannot recommend Before You Forget highly enough. This well-researched book is both heart-breaking and uplifting.
It's a keeper.
Title: Before You Forget
Author: Julia Lawrinson
Publisher: Penguin Random House Australia, $
Publication Date: 30 January 2017
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9780143574071
For ages: 14 years +
Type: Young Adult
