Does love just happen, or are certain loves just meant to be? Becky Albertalli and Adam Silvera’s new YA novel, What If It’s Us, follows the love that sparks between two teens boys who meet at the post office, a seemingly random event. What If It’s Us celebrates the spontaneity of young love, the courage it takes to be yourself, and the funny ways people are brought into our lives for a reason.
Ben and Arthur bumped into each other at the post office. To most, this would be a fleeting encounter, yet for these two boys, they know they could have an amazing love story. Ben and Arthur, who come from very different worlds, are seen from their own points of view as they strive to connect once more and find out what the universe has in store for them. With just as much wit, humor, and swoon-worthy romantic moments as Albertalli and Silvera have provided in the past, What If It’s Us captures the struggle of being a boy in a big city, discovering one’s self, and making the most of even the most trivial moments life has to offer. You never know when or where you might find the love of your life.
The moment I heard Becky and Adam were writing a book together, I could hardly contain my excitement. And now that I’ve read the book, I can verify that the hype is definitely deserved, and this story is everything I could have hoped for and more. Ben and Arthur are completely lovable and two people I would love to be friends with, both for their nerdy qualities and love of coffee. Everything about this book brought a smile to my face. And for those looking for a book to follow Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda, this is the perfect book to pick up. Becky and Adam bring another coming-of-age story to YA bookshelves with representation, hilarious dialogue, and realistic teen angst—a combination that leads to a very fun, sweet, and romantic ride.
Arthur and Ben can’t get past their random encounter that changed both of their lives. Now set on finding one another and seeing what could happen between them, their insanely hilarious and deeply moving journey begins.