Book Review: Amelia, If Only by Becky Albertalli
There’s a certain magic that comes when a book resonates with your own experiences, intertwining your memories of fleeting crushes with the characters’ journeys. That’s precisely why Amelia, If Only by Becky Albertalli caught my attention. With her unique knack for encapsulating the whirlwind of emotions that accompany first loves and crushes, I was eager to dive into yet another delightful tale — even if I’m now a little more seasoned in the world of romance.
At its heart, Amelia, If Only is a poignant exploration of bisexuality and the rollercoaster of young adulthood. Amelia is beautifully relatable, portraying the confusion, hopes, and dreams associated with navigating her identity. Throughout the narrative, Albertalli achieves a remarkable balance between the exhilarating possibilities of new love and the harsh realities of societal expectations. What struck me the most was how the author addressed parasocial crushes. As someone who frequently daydreams in the safety of fiction, I appreciated Albertalli’s insights on using these crushes as a healthy escape. It’s liberating to recognize the joy in dreaming about the unattainable — a central theme that mirrors my own experiences.
However, there’s a bittersweet edge to this journey. Albertalli doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of fandom and identity, bringing to light the ugliness that sometimes spills over from speculative whispers about sexuality. As someone who experienced their fair share of “fan-girl flashbacks,” I found her portrayal both nostalgic and jarring. It sparks the kind of uncomfortable reflection that makes you appreciate the interplay of fantasy and reality.
As I read through Amelia’s escapades, I sometimes found myself stepping back, feeling a generational gap between myself and the younger characters. Their crises — while deeply impactful to them — occasionally felt overwhelming. I cringed at moments that I think were meant to evoke nostalgia, and while I could acknowledge that these feelings are valid and important to process at that age, they sometimes left me yearning for a little more maturity in their handling.
Albertalli’s writing style remains warm and inviting, and her dialogues crackle with authenticity. The pacing flowed well, immersing me into Amelia’s world without feeling rushed. I could practically see the vivid colors of her daydreams and hear the laughter of her friends. The friendships depicted in the book brought moments of joy, but also reminded me of the potential for chaos that often accompanies young adulthood.
Amelia, If Only isn’t just a tale for teenagers but offers something for anyone who’s ever questioned their identity or felt the crushing weight of societal pressures. It’s a reminder that growth isn’t linear, and that navigating one’s sexuality is an unfolding journey. The book left me reflecting on my own crushes and the beautiful, albeit messy, nature of self-acceptance.
I’d recommend this book not only to young readers but to anyone who cherishes coming-of-age stories with heart. Albertalli continues to cement her place as a voice for new generations, and this tale will surely resonate with many. If you enjoy a heartfelt dive into the complexities of young love and identity, Amelia, If Only is undoubtedly worth your time.
In the end, it was a delightful read that left me with not just the echo of Amelia’s laughter but also a gentle reminder of the importance of acceptance — of ourselves and each other. 🌈