The Me I Used to Be: A Novel by Kristan Higgins

 Book Excerpt:

'At their twenty-fifth high school reunion, four former best friends discover that growing up is way messier than anticipated—and the past isn’t nearly as finished as they thought.

Back in senior year, Audrey, Micah, Jasmine, and Beck were the Core Four: the lucky one, the beautiful one, the smart one, the sporty one. They had color-coded dreams, inside jokes, and a lifelong friendship they thought would last forever. But graduation night ended in a tragic accident, followed by the kind of silence that stretches for decades.

Now, they’ve returned for their reunion, each carrying a life that looks nothing like the glossy future they imagined. Stalled careers, complicated marriages, outspoken adult children, and secrets that never fit on holiday cards. For one of them, a diagnosis of early-onset dementia turns the weekend into a ticking clock.

Across one unforgettable weekend, the Core Four must decide if their past can still change their future together.'

Title: The Me I Used to Be

Author: Kristan Higgins

Publisher: Lake Union Publishing

Reviewed By: Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

'The Me I Used to Be' by Kristan Higgins

My Review:

'The Me I Used to Be' was a powerful read that really touched my soul as I read this beautifully written story. With my parents both being dead, a lot of questions came to mind as I was trying to read this story.  I had to stop a few times, but I was able to continue after a while.  I'd say this story really kept the reader engaged, even though it was sad and tragic at times, with forgiveness, emotion, and even some humor.  I'd say these characters felt fully brought to life through everything that was going on in the story, as one will see and feel the importance of not only the small moments but also the important ones, as you can have the joys as well as the sorrows that definitely bring to mind all the 'beauty, messiness, and let one not forget everything in between. 

All I can say is that this author did a wonderful job of presenting a story that will give you something to ponder long after you finish reading.