Unpacking Crushes and Queerness in Amelia, If Only
As a long-time fan of Becky Albertalli’s work, I’ve always been drawn to her ability to encapsulate the essence of adolescence—the intricate emotions, the heart’s fluttering pangs of a crush, and the tangled web of friendships. Amelia, If Only caught my attention not just for its charming title, but also because it promised a deep dive into the nuances of bisexuality, a topic that many readers, including myself, are eager to explore through a fresh lens.
At its core, Amelia, If Only weaves an engaging narrative about love—romantic and platonic—and the confusing but exhilarating journey of self-discovery. The protagonist, Amelia, grapples with her burgeoning feelings, navigating a landscape where her crushes are both exhilarating and fraught with the complications of identity. Albertalli masterfully captures the essence of what it means to be young and confused, yet hopeful. I appreciated how the story places a spotlight on the complexities of being bisexual, focusing on the struggles that come with understanding one’s identity and how it is perceived externally.
One of the standout themes for me was the exploration of parasocial relationships. Amelia’s intense crushes serve as a tool for escape, allowing readers to embrace the dreamy side of romance without the weight of reality. This aspect struck a chord, reminding me of my own crush-filled days where fantasy provided a comforting refuge. Albertalli doesn’t shy away from exposing the harsh realities of such crushes, laying bare the stigma and speculation that often surrounds public figures and their sexuality. It was a reminder of how societal perceptions can warp personal experiences, something that many readers will resonate with, especially if they have felt the bite of judgment.
However, I won’t shy away from saying that at times, Amelia’s journey felt a bit overwhelming to me as someone in my 20s. The characters’ crises, while authentic to their teen experiences, sometimes felt like the end of the world—an emotional intensity that brought me back to my own teenage years and its accompanying melodrama. Albertalli’s knack for making characters relatable is evident, but there were moments when I found myself cringing a bit, wishing Amelia and her friends could see things from a different perspective.
The writing itself has that familiar warmth that fans of Albertalli have come to love. Her style blends humor and heartache seamlessly, inviting readers into a world that feels both intimate and real. Pacing-wise, the story flows effortlessly, capturing the highs and lows without ever losing momentum. There’s a captivating honesty to her dialogue that rings true for anyone who has ever had a crush—or navigated the chaotic sphere of friendships during adolescence.
As I closed the book, I found myself reflecting on how Albertalli continues to impact the LGBTQ+ narrative in young adult fiction. Amelia, If Only is a story for crush-havers and dreamers, for those searching for identity or just looking to relive the sweet confusion of their teenage years. I believe this book will resonate with younger readers grappling with their own identities, but it also speaks volumes to anyone who remembers the intensity of youthful emotions.
In conclusion, if you’re searching for a poignant exploration of crushes, queerness, and self-acceptance, Amelia, If Only is a delightful read worth diving into. It’s a heartfelt reminder that no matter how complicated it may seem, everyone’s journey of understanding themselves is uniquely beautiful. I rated it 3.5 stars, appreciating the good it does in fostering conversations about sexuality, flaws, and what it truly means to accept ourselves. Thank you to HarperCollins Children’s Books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest opinion. Happy reading!