Book Review: If We Survive This by [Author’s Name]
I don’t know about you, but when I first heard about If We Survive This, I couldn’t resist the intriguing amalgamation of elements it promised. A dystopian narrative that wraps itself around a group of young adults navigating a zombie-like outbreak, led by a neurodivergent heroine? It sounded like a rich tapestry of both terror and tender human emotion. After diving into this exploration of survival, family, and identity, I couldn’t wait to share my thoughts.
At its core, If We Survive This tells the story of Flora, a complex and deeply relatable character who’s grappling not just with the horrors of a rabies mutation ravaging the world, but also with her own internal battles, including anxiety and OCD. Following her and her injured brother Cain after their world is flipped upside down—having lost their mother and with their father gone to prepare a safe haven—I found myself rooting for Flora in ways I didn’t anticipate. It’s heart-wrenching yet hopeful, showcasing the resilience that unfolds when faced with immense hardship.
The dual timelines of “Now” and “Then” add a layer of depth to the narrative, allowing us to peel back the layers of Flora’s family history, shedding light on the trauma that shapes their actions and relationships. The heartfelt exploration of their collective past paired with the present stakes kept me engaged—every twist felt earned and real. Additionally, the diverse representation in this story—neurodivergent, LGBTQ+/trans, and Hispanic characters—enriches the narrative tapestry and emphasizes the fundamental truth that everyone has a story worth telling.
As for the writing style, I appreciated the clarity and simplicity that made the audiobook version a joy to listen to. Narrated by the author, the experience felt intimate, as if Flora herself were sharing her journey directly with me. There were moments, to be fair, where the narration felt a bit monotone. This could’ve been an intentional choice to reflect Flora’s emotional withdrawal—something that resonated with me. It reminded me how one’s upbringing can influence the way we express ourselves, often leading us to become less vocal as we fear being labeled as "too emotional."
The storytelling struck a profound chord with me, particularly with scenes highlighting humanity amidst chaos. For instance, there’s a moment when Flora and her group find a glimpse of normalcy amidst their apocalyptic surroundings that is both poignant and relatable. This book speaks to anyone who has ever felt the burden of trauma or navigated the complexities of identity.
In conclusion, If We Survive This is more than just a survival tale; it’s a delicate coming-of-age story imbued with themes of identity, resilience, and the intricate bonds of family. If you enjoy character-driven dystopian fiction that doesn’t shy away from the messiness of life, I wholeheartedly recommend you give this book a read. It left me contemplating the fragile beauty of human connection even in the darkest times, and that’s a sentiment worth holding onto as we navigate our own journeys through life.