When I first became a librarian, I had no idea how many teens would ask me the question, "Can you find me a book that will make me cry?"  So now I always keep that request in the back of my mind, and If I Stay by Gayle Forman is definitely a strong contender.

At the very beginning of this book (so this is just an itty-bitty spoiler), a family of four people gets involved in a terrible car accident.  Most of the story is told by Mia, who is physically in a coma but her mind is having an out-of-body experience.  Mia spends a lot of time reflecting on her life, her family, her boyfriend, and whether or not she wants to stay in the world of the living or move on. I highly recommend that you read this book by yourself (you might end up being embarassed if you read it in public), and you should have a box of tissues handy. 

No, seriously.  I'm NOT kidding.

If I Stay appears on the Stuff For the Teen Age 2010 List.