Before I Die

Downham, Jenny.  2007.  Before I Die.  Westminster: A David Fickler Book.  ISBN 9780385751551

Before I Die is a powerful and heart-wrenching novel in which Tessa has been diagnosed with a terminal illness. Struggling with the torrent that is adolescence while coping with the inevitability of death, Tessa finds strength in attempting to cross as many things off of her life’s list as possible. Beside her on her journey is her strong-willed and confident friend, Zoey, who is offset by the careful and fearful presence of her father.

Tessa’s struggle is eased slightly by the introduction of Adam, her soon-to-be boyfriend and the only love of her life. Their sweet and doomed relationship makes reading this novel both happy and heartbreaking. From Tessa’s first-person limited narration, the reader finds the clarity of the voice drifting as Tessa begins to wane. This style only intensifies the feeling of loss.

Downham has written an intensely powerful story that will not be easily forgotten. The story of Tessa and her struggles with every day life will be relatable to teens and older audiences. The themes of death, yearning and love are familiar but presented in an entirely new and difficult light. While the completion of the list propels the story forward, it is not intrusive to the story.

The characterization is very well-done, and the various characters within the story deal with Tessa’s situation, and their own, both believably and differently. This novel will be highly, though not lightly, recommended.

"…and the passionate present-tense narrative will draw readers deeply into story and make them wonder, “What if it was me?"(Booklist/November 2007)

"Lucid language makes a painful journey bearable, beautiful and transcendent."(Kirkus Reviews/September 2007)

Possible Activities:
1. Open discussions about death and loss in a group or individually.
2. Possibly open a wiki or blog for teen contributions, as verbal discussions may be more difficult for teens.