Book Review: Come As You Are by Dahlia Adler
From the moment I laid eyes on the stunning cover of Come As You Are by Dahlia Adler, I felt an undeniable pull. A vibrant mix of nostalgia and raw emotion, this novel promised something beyond the typical young adult fare I had come to expect. I anticipated a light read, but this book knocked the wind out of me in the best possible way. Imagine my surprise when I discovered a story so rich with life lessons that I found myself wishing it had existed during my own high school years.
At its heart, Come As You Are chronicles the journey of Everett "Evie" Riley, a fierce character crafted with such authenticity that she feels like a long-lost friend. Evie arrives at Camden Academy seeking a fresh start, nursing the wounds of betrayal from her ex-boyfriend Craig and former best friend Claire. The raw emotion running through her story is heart-wrenching, but it’s also packed with a sense of hope and resilience. Evie embodies the search for identity and friendship—a theme that resonates deeply with anyone who has navigated the treacherous waters of adolescence.
The book beautifully captures the essence of friendship and its transient nature. One quote that particularly struck me was, “Friends come and go. You might never see the people again you met in high school, but you will always have that ONE friend that sticks with you through life.” As someone who has watched friendships ebb and flow over the years, this sentiment felt like a comforting hug, reminding me of the precious few who stick around through thick and thin.
Adler’s writing is sharp and witty, infusing humor into moments of vulnerability. The witty banter between Evie and her dorm-mate Salem Grayson is delightful; their chemistry is electric and keeps you smiling throughout the pages. Salem, who begins as a shy and enigmatic figure, quickly becomes a beacon of support for Evie. Their pact—Evie teaching Salem how to embrace the ‘good’ while he leads her on a journey of recklessness—creates an endearing dynamic filled with laugh-out-loud moments and heartfelt connections.
The pacing of the novel felt just right, allowing for moments of introspection interspersed with lively escapades. I found myself completely immersed in Evie and Salem’s world, laughing one moment and tearing up the next. The author’s ability to blend humor and heartbreak is what ultimately made this book a profound reading experience.
Reflecting on how Come As You Are affected me personally, I couldn’t help but marvel at how it spoke to my younger self. It serves as a reminder that it’s okay to be flawed, to seek friendships, and to embrace the wild journey of growing up. I wish I could have handed this book to my high school self—she would have cherished it.
In conclusion, Come As You Are is a poignant, relatable read perfect for any high school student, or anyone navigating the ups and downs of friendships and identity. If you’ve ever grappled with social dynamics or the quest for genuine connections, this book is for you. Mark your calendars for May 27th, 2025; you won’t want to miss the chance to grab a copy. Dahlia Adler has truly created something special here, and I can’t recommend it enough. Thank you, Dahlia, for this life-changing story that felt tailor-made just for me.