Even If I Fall
Book • 2018
Don't miss this deeply emotional, romantic and layered novel from Abigail Johnson, whose stories have been described as 'smart', 'heartfelt', 'genuine' and 'complex'.
A year ago, Brooke Covington lost everything when her beloved older brother, Jason, confessed to the murder of his best friend, Calvin. Brooke and her family became social pariahs, broken and unable to console one another. Brooke's only solace remains the ice-skating rink, where she works but no longer lets herself dream about a future skating professionally.
When Brooke encounters Calvin's younger brother, Heath, on the side of the road and offers him a ride, everything changes. She needs someone to talk to...and so does Heath. No one else understands what it's like. Her brother, alive but gone; his brother, dead but everywhere.
Soon, they're meeting in secret, despite knowing that both families would be horrified if they found out. In the place of his anger and her guilt, something frighteningly tender begins to develop, drawing them ever closer together.
But when a new secret comes out about the murder, Brooke has to choose whose pain she's willing to live with - her family's or Heath's. Because she can't heal one without hurting the other.
Even If I Fall
Book • 2018
Don't miss this deeply emotional, romantic and layered novel from Abigail Johnson, whose stories have been described as 'smart', 'heartfelt', 'genuine' and 'complex'.
A year ago, Brooke Covington lost everything when her beloved older brother, Jason, confessed to the murder of his best friend, Calvin. Brooke and her family became social pariahs, broken and unable to console one another. Brooke's only solace remains the ice-skating rink, where she works but no longer lets herself dream about a future skating professionally.
When Brooke encounters Calvin's younger brother, Heath, on the side of the road and offers him a ride, everything changes. She needs someone to talk to...and so does Heath. No one else understands what it's like. Her brother, alive but gone; his brother, dead but everywhere.
Soon, they're meeting in secret, despite knowing that both families would be horrified if they found out. In the place of his anger and her guilt, something frighteningly tender begins to develop, drawing them ever closer together.
But when a new secret comes out about the murder, Brooke has to choose whose pain she's willing to live with - her family's or Heath's. Because she can't heal one without hurting the other.
Bara says...
Ages 14+, but every child is different
The story deals with heavy, mature themes including grief, social ostracization, and the trauma surrounding a murder. It is best suited for older teens capable of navigating complex emotional interpersonal dynamics.
Content Safety Breakdown
Detailed breakdown of potentially concerning content
Sex & Nudity
The story features a developing romantic relationship between the two protagonists, including some kissing and emotional intimacy. There is no graphic sexual content.
Violence & Gore
While the murder backstory is central to the plot, the violence is not depicted graphically. The tension stems from the repercussions of the crime rather than on-screen physical altercations.
Profanity
The dialogue includes moderate usage of words such as sh*t and f*ck, which are utilized by the teenage characters to express their frustration, grief, and emotional distress.
Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking
There are occasional references to social drinking and characters using substances as a way to cope with their shared emotional trauma.
Frightening Scenes
The book deals with heavy themes of murder, grief, family resentment, and the psychological impact of trauma on young adults. The intensity is sustained through the emotional struggle of the characters.
Key Insights
Quick summary and important considerations
This story explores how people help each other heal and find hope again after facing very difficult and sad situations in their families.
Content Warnings
Detailed Analysis
In-depth insights for parents and educators
What Parents Need to Know
Themes are somber and focused on the psychological aftermath of violence rather than explicit physical acts. Ensure the teen is comfortable with narratives involving family estrangement and loss.
What Kids Can Learn
Develops a deeper understanding of how empathy facilitates forgiveness and the importance of seeking support during life's most challenging transitions.
Key Topics Discussed
Why Parents Might Like It
The narrative offers a sophisticated examination of human resilience and the moral complexities inherent in divided loyalties and traumatic loss.
Positives & Learning
What makes this content valuable for children
Positive Messages
Emphasizes the necessity of empathy and the courage required to seek connection while processing severe trauma. Promotes the idea that understanding others' pain is a vital step toward personal healing.
Positive Role Models
Protagonists exhibit resilience amid overwhelming circumstances, though they struggle with secrecy and ethical dilemmas. Their growth stems from choosing open communication over isolation.
Diverse Representations
No diverse representation indicated in available information.
Educational Value
Provides meaningful social-emotional learning regarding conflict resolution and the healthy processing of complex, painful emotions.
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