Finding Yourself in Dahlia Adler’s "Come As You Are"
When I first stumbled upon Come As You Are by Dahlia Adler, I was intrigued—not so much by the premise, but by the stunning cover that called to me like a siren’s song. Little did I know, this book would offer me more than just a reading experience; it would deliver a life-changing journey that resonated deeply with my own high school memories and struggles.
This novel beautifully navigates themes of friendship, identity, and the importance of taking risks to become the best version of yourself. At its center is Everett "Evie" Riley, a character so relatable and raw that I could feel my younger self mirrored in her struggles. After a particularly gut-wrenching breakup, Evie transfers to Camden Academy in search of a new beginning, leaving behind the whispers of her past. From the very first page, Adler’s portrayal of Evie’s emotional landscape felt like a warm hug—one that provided solace and understanding to anyone who ever felt like an outsider.
The dynamic between Evie and Salem Grayson, her fellow transfer student, is one of the book’s highlights. Salem is painted as a “little mystery wrapped in an enigma,” and I found myself incredibly drawn to his character. Their banter is electric—filled with humor, genuine connection, and unforgettable moments that had me both laughing and swooning. The way they navigate their challenges as “bad boy guru” and “Skeevy” respectively showcases a bond that is both heartwarming and hilariously chaotic. Watching Evie transform and embrace her “Reign of Terror” was empowering; it served as a poignant reminder that life is too short to play it safe.
Adler’s writing style is brisk yet evocative, perfectly capturing the complexities of teenage life. I was surprised by how much depth and nuance could be packed into a young adult novel, and I genuinely believe that Come As You Are has enough heart to resonate with readers of all ages. The personal growth of both Evie and Salem is raw and, at times, heart-wrenching. Moments like Evie’s quiet tears in the shower are infused with such authenticity—reminding us that healing is rarely linear.
One quote that particularly struck me was, “Being you is not a bad thing.” This mantra summarized the essence of the book—encouraging readers to embrace their authenticity, flaws and all. Similarly, the metaphor of friendship as “four-leaf clovers" captured the rarity and beauty of finding that one true friend who sticks with you through life.
As I closed the book, I couldn’t help but feel immensely grateful for the experience. Come As You Are is a life raft for anyone navigating the tumultuous seas of high school or even those of us still grappling with our identities in adulthood. If you’re a young adult still trying to find your place, or simply someone who appreciates a heartfelt story about resilience and friendship, I urge you to grab a copy when it releases on May 27, 2025.
Thank you, Dahlia Adler, for crafting a narrative that feels like a love letter to all of us who have ever felt like we didn’t belong. You’ve touched my heart, and I can’t advocate for this spectacular journey enough.
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