Book Review: Amelia, If Only by Becky Albertalli
If there’s one thing I’ve come to appreciate about Becky Albertalli’s writing, it’s her exquisite talent for capturing the nuanced feelings of adolescence—especially those elusive crushes that seem to take over your world, even if you know they’re fleeting. Amelia, If Only piqued my interest not just because it’s been buzzing in the book community, but because I’ve always been drawn to stories that delve into the complexities of identity, particularly within the LGBTQ+ spectrum.
At the heart of Amelia, If Only lies a vibrant exploration of bisexuality. Albertalli brilliantly navigates the difficulties of understanding what that label truly means, particularly for a character like Amelia who finds herself caught between societal expectations and her own truth. I found myself resonating deeply with Amelia’s journey. Her struggles feel familiar—those moments of self-doubt and the yearning for acceptance are something I think many can relate to, regardless of their age.
One of the standout themes for me was the depiction of parasocial crushes. Albertalli paints these experiences as a double-edged sword. On one hand, there’s comfort in dreaming about an idealized romance that you know could never translate into reality. Yet, the flip side taps into the darker aspects of obsession; those late-night scrolling sessions on social media that make you cringe in retrospective embarrassment. The moments when the world feels like it’s closing in—due to rumors and speculation about one’s identity—made my heart ache for Amelia. It’s all too easy to remember the sheer intensity of those “fan-girl” phases, complete with the emotional highs and lows they entail.
Albertalli’s narrative style continues to shine, with her trademark light-heartedness making the heavier themes more palatable. The pacing felt just right; there were moments of levity that allowed us to breathe between the emotional explorations. Yet, I found myself occasionally taken aback by Amelia’s intensity. Sure, the world feels like it’s ending at that age, but as someone in my twenties, I found myself cringing at times. Their problems, while valid, felt a little overwhelming compared to the more nuanced adult complexities I’m used to. Still, I appreciate how Albertalli captures those feelings brilliantly, reminding us that every stage of life has its hurdles.
One particular line stood out to me: “Dreaming isn’t the same as wanting.” It encapsulates a feeling I’ve often grappled with—recognizing the difference between fantasy and reality. I found this quote particularly poignant, as it underscored Amelia’s internal conflict and made me reflect on my own experiences.
For readers who have loved Albertalli’s previous works, Amelia, If Only is a delightful standalone that offers fresh insights without requiring prior reading. Fans of contemporary young adult literature who appreciate earnest explorations of sexuality, identity, and the agony and ecstasy of crushes will be drawn to Amelia’s journey.
In conclusion, while I can’t help but feel a bit “too old” for the intensity of Amelia and her friends’ drama, I embrace the importance of Albertalli’s work in shining a light on these experiences. It’s a heartfelt reminder that growing up is messy, and understanding oneself is a lifelong journey. If you’re in the mood for a story that blends humor with authentic emotional depth, then Amelia, If Only is surely a book you’ll want to add to your reading list.