Review of Come As You Are by Dahlia Adler
Dahlia Adler’s Come As You Are caught my attention immediately—perhaps it was the stunning cover that hinted at a story filled with depth and emotion. As someone who often finds solace in the pages of a well-crafted narrative, I dove into this book with an expectation of a typical young adult journey. Little did I know, it would resonate with me on a level that felt almost personal. This isn’t just a story; it feels like an essential guide for anyone navigating the tumultuous waters of adolescence.
At its heart, Come As You Are explores the themes of friendship, identity, and the courage to reinvent oneself. The protagonist, Everett “Evie” Riley, is a refreshingly relatable character who transitions from a painful past to a hopeful new beginning with the help of her friends at Camden Academy. Her journey of self-discovery is raw and filled with authentic moments that many young readers will find both heartbreaking and inspiring. Adler does a remarkable job capturing the essence of youth—with all its insecurities, heartbreaks, and joys—making it easy to envision myself in Evie’s shoes.
One aspect of the writing that stands out is Adler’s ability to weave humor and poignancy seamlessly. Evie and Salem, her charming and enigmatic dorm-mate, embody a perfect blend of wit and vulnerability. Their banter had me laughing out loud; moments like Evie calling Salem her “bad boy guru” and their playful nicknames reflect a dynamic that transforms the story into a heartfelt exploration of companionship. Quoting Salem, “Evie Riley, you are a fucking literal ball of sunshine,” captures not just a sweet moment, but the warming essence of true friendship—something that resonates deeply, especially for those of us who may have felt unseen.
What truly made this book special for me were its underlying life lessons. It reminded me of the complexity of friendships—how they come and go, yet sometimes there’s that one person who sticks around through it all. Adler’s poignant observation that “friends are not the easiest for me to come by” hits home, emphasizing the rare and precious nature of true connections. I wish I had this book during my high school years; it could have served as an anchor during turbulent times.
Adler doesn’t shy away from addressing real issues, but she does it with such grace that it feels like an uplifting experience rather than a heavy one. The emotional depth combined with moments of humor creates a balance that keeps the pacing engaging throughout. It’s a beautiful reflection of growing up—complex, flawed, and incredibly inspiring.
As I closed the book, I felt a surge of gratitude towards the author for crafting such a relatable and heartfelt story. If you’re a high school student struggling with finding your place in the world or simply someone who appreciates a tale of resilience and friendship, Come As You Are is a must-read. Adler has created a world that feels like home—a reminder that being yourself, with all your flaws, is not just okay, but absolutely essential.
Mark your calendars for May 27th, 2025, to grab a copy! This book is destined to touch many lives, just as it has changed mine for the better. Thank you, Dahlia, for writing a story that feels like a warm embrace for those of us still figuring things out.