If Only is the tender debut from an author who knows first hand what it is like to lose a mother at a young age. It is a well-executed realistic account of what it is like to cope with the loss of a parent, from the clumsy things that well-meaning people say to the depression, grief, and the strain it puts on existing relationships. Corinna is completely believable as a thirteen-year-old girl. She and her dad, after a bit of stumbling, work through their grief in healthy ways. At a certain point in the grief process, this book could be helpful for a teen or tween in a similar situation to read. Also, it would be great for those supporting someone who has lost a loved one, as it gives a good understanding as to just what these characters are going through. Besides the realistic grieving part of this book, it is just a really good story. It's very well-written and completely engaging. Corinna is a narrator who is easy to listen to, laugh with, and feel empathy for. Completely wholesome and easy to read, If Only is a good choice for both tweens and young teens. Corinna takes a much needed bra shopping trip with her best friend's mother, and has a crush on a boy, all very age-appropriate to the story. Even for readers who haven't experienced a loss, this is a worthwhile read that is ultimately uplifting.
