With a plethora of options for entertainment in the 21st century, many people seem to forget the importance of a good book. Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver throws out the bias against books. Put down your phone, grab a blanket, make a cup of hot chocolate and jump into the world of Sam Kingston.

Before I Fall opens with following Sam—a high school senior—on February 12, or in Thomas Jefferson High terms, Cupid Day. Cupid Day is Sam’s favorite day of the year. Showing off all the roses she receives, spending time with her heartthrob of a boyfriend and wearing festive clothes—in Sam’s eyes, there’s nothing better.

Then a tragedy occurs: Sam dies in a car accident. Yes, you read that right. But even more shocking is the aftermath of the accident—Sam is trapped in February 12. She relives this day seven times, and each time the day—and Sam—ends up completely different.

Sam goes through the five stages of grief: denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance. She finds importance in new things and partakes in events she would have never dreamed of. Her newfound courage allows her to change her shortened life for the better.

As a self-proclaimed book nerd, I highly recommend Before I Fall. Lauren Oliver questions the importance of popularity, asks what family means, addresses teen suicide and makes you think: how would you spend your last day on Earth?

Rating: 9/10