Just One Day

Starred review from November 12, 2012
The love story in Forman’s If I Stay and Where She Went was wrapped in the finality of death. This story—about the romance between Allyson, a recent high school grad, and Willem, a handsome Dutch actor she meets during a whirlwind tour of Europe—is built around uncertainty and a kind of loss that’s more akin to an open wound. Upon meeting, the two take an impulsive trip to Paris, but Willem disappears and Allyson is left stranded. Back in the U.S., Allyson is unable to wipe Willem from her mind, and her carefully planned future takes unexpected turns. In a romance that never quite answers the question “Whatever happened to Willem?” Forman explores how travel can lead to surprises and a redefinition of self. In college, Allyson breaks away from her mother’s expectations, realizes her passion for theater and language, and tries to gather clues about Willem’s whereabouts. Offering mystery, drama, and an evocative portrait of unrequited love, this open-ended novel will leave fans eagerly anticipating the companion story—written from Willem’s perspective—due in fall 2013. Ages 14–up. Agent: Sarah Burnes, the Gernert Company.

Take Paris as the background, add an endearing story of young love, and top it off with superb narration. C'est magnifique! Allyson, who has just graduated from high school, is on a "teen tours" trip through Europe when she meets Willem, a Dutch actor. He convinces her to spend "just one day" in Paris with him before she returns home. That day will affect Allyson's entire first year at college, at first in a negative way and then in a more positive way. With a youthful-sounding voice, narrator Kathleen McInerney transforms Allyson from a vulnerable "good girl" who can't speak up for herself to a strong, young woman who knows what she wants out of life. McInerney carries listeners through the uplifting story, capturing every character and emotion. M.M.G. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award (c) AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine