You Before Anyone Else

Gr 9 Up—Finley Belton is modeling to earn money to reopen her mother's dance studio. It's during this time that she meets fellow model Eddie Wells, who seems mysterious yet much like the superficial, good-looking rich kids whom she encounters on a daily basis. Finley is nothing like that, with her wholesome demeanor and maturity beyond her years, having had to be the glue that holds her family together. However, as she gets to know Eddie, she realizes that he is not at all as he first appeared, and sparks ignite between them. As they grow closer, Eddie must decide how much to reveal about a secret he keeps in fear that he will lose Finley, the one person who loves and believes in him. Written in alternating first-person points of view, this novel provides readers with an in-depth look into Finley's and Eddie's thoughts, allowing a true fondness to develop for the characters. What starts off as a simple romance becomes a story addressing serious teen issues. Finley and Eddie are well-developed, and through their interactions, Cross and Perini address such themes as familial angst, teen pregnancy, and the consequences of our choices. Overall, this is a well-written selection that teens will relate to and enjoy.