Amelia, If Only: A Heartfelt Exploration of Crushes and Queerness
Becky Albertalli has a way of weaving together the bittersweet symphony of youthful crushes and the intricate tapestry of identity that reminds us all of those fleeting moments that feel like they define our existence. When I saw Amelia, If Only on the shelves, I couldn’t resist diving in, curious to see how Becky would tackle the complexities of bisexuality and the nuances of parasocial relationships. If you’ve ever felt a crush that was too big for reality to contain, this book is not only relatable but oddly comforting.
At the heart of Amelia, If Only lies the vibrant and tumultuous journey of Amelia, an introspective protagonist navigating the choppy waters of her burgeoning sexuality and the rollercoaster ride of teenage crushes. What resonates — and perhaps what I personally relate to the most — is the way Becky captures the essence of those fragile, sometimes overwhelming feelings. Remember the excitement of having a crush? It’s exhilarating yet terrifying, and Becky brings that sensation to life with a deft touch.
The narrative delves deep into the challenges of understanding bisexuality, but it also highlights something often overlooked: the role of parasocial crushes as a healthy escape from our reality. There’s a refreshing honesty in Amelia’s experiences, presenting both the beautiful daydreams and the not-so-flattering truths of obsession. As someone who has felt that acute pain of speculation surrounding identity, I found the portrayal of these dynamics exceptionally poignant. The narrative doesn’t shy away from the awkwardness and messiness of youth, illustrating how social media can amplify scrutiny and foster harmful assumptions — a theme that struck a nerve with me, especially given my own “fan-girl phase” memories.
Amelia, while vibrant and multifaceted, also presents a challenge. Sometimes, her emotions and reactions felt exaggerated, a reminder that I’m now a bit removed from that age. I found myself cringing at moments that felt a little too dramatic, which made me reflect on how our perspectives change with age. Yet, through every cringe-worthy moment, I appreciated that Becky unearths important conversations about accepting our identities, embracing our flaws, and the importance of community. Even if I’m not the target audience anymore, there’s a warmth in her stories that keeps me coming back.
In a world where voices like Albertalli’s are essential, Amelia, If Only stands as a testament to the beauty and complexity of queer narratives. It’s a story that celebrates the spectrum of sexuality without pigeonholing experiences, inviting readers to explore and accept the whole self—turbulence included.
If you’re someone who cherishes genuine characters grappling with their identities, offers a sweet dive into young love, or simply enjoys stories that resonate with authenticity, I believe you’ll find something to adore in this book. It may not hold all the answers, but it fosters an encouraging space for readers to navigate their feelings and find themselves along the way.
So, whether you’re a longtime fan of Albertalli or picking up her work for the first time, Amelia, If Only is worth your time (and does not require any prior reading!). It’s a book that reminded me of the importance of connection and the beauty in our struggles, echoing long after I closed its pages. Thanks to HarperCollins Children’s Books for giving me the chance to dive into this tender narrative. Amelia is certainly a journey worth taking.