From What I Remember by Stacy Kramer and Valerie Thomas is an electrifying whirlwind of an adventure that will have you cheering, cringing, and sometimes shaking your head in disbelief. This young adult novel takes you on a wild ride from the sunny beaches of Mexico to the hallowed halls of high school back in California. Strap in for a journey filled with unexpected twists, self-discovery, and friendship that transcends borders and stereotypes.
The story kicks off with a high school graduation trip to Mexico gone hilariously awry. Kylie is your typical overachiever, determined to experience the wild side of life before college begins. And then there’s Max, the school’s resident bad boy with a heart of gold underneath all that leather and bravado. When their paths collide in Mexico, they find themselves in a series of mishaps that lead to an unforgettable night neither of them can remember. And thus begins the hilarious and heartwarming quest to piece together the events of that fateful evening.
Kramer and Thomas expertly weave together multiple perspectives, giving readers a front-row seat to the evolving dynamics between characters. What truly shines in this novel is the authenticity of the characters, each flawed and intricate in their own right. Kylie’s relentless drive to break free from her well-ordered life resonates with anyone who has ever felt the weight of expectations bearing down on them. Max’s hidden vulnerabilities add depth to his tough exterior, making him a character you can’t help but root for, flaws and all.
The setting of Mexico serves as the perfect backdrop for the characters’ journey of self-discovery. The vibrant descriptions of sandy beaches, bustling markets, and colorful festivals immerse you in the sights, sounds, and smells of a foreign land. You’ll find yourself yearning for adventure alongside Kylie and Max as they navigate the unfamiliar terrain of a country that’s both enchanting and unpredictable.
As Kylie and Max race against time to unravel the mysteries of that unforgettable night, they discover that friendship can blossom in the most unexpected of places. Their journey is as much about finding themselves as it is about finding each other, and the bonds they forge are as authentic as they are heartwarming. From What I Remember beautifully captures the essence of teenage rebellion, friendship, and the transformative power of stepping outside your comfort zone.
The plot unfolds at a breakneck pace, keeping you on the edge of your seat as Kylie and Max traverse the highs and lows of their adventure. The humor is sharp and witty, providing moments of levity amidst the chaos and emotional upheaval. Kramer and Thomas strike a delicate balance between laughter and poignancy, ensuring that the novel never veers too far into melodrama or comedy.
From What I Remember is a refreshing and heartfelt coming-of-age story that reminds us of the magic that can happen when we let go of our inhibitions and embrace the unknown. It’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, the power of friendship, and the importance of being true to oneself. So grab a copy, buckle up, and get ready for a rollercoaster ride of emotions, laughter, and self-discovery. You won’t be able to put it down until you’ve journeyed to the very last page.