Book Series · 2 Books

If I Stay Books

In order from If I Stay to Where She Went.

Gayle Forman's two connected novels follow Mia and Adam through a catastrophic loss, separation, music careers, and the difficult possibility of finding their way back to one another.

Reviewed by the Bookroo Editors Updated August 19, 2026

Reading order

How to Read the If I Stay Series

Read If I Stay first and Where She Went second. The sequel takes place three years later and shifts to Adam's point of view, so its emotional arc depends on the first novel.

Gayle Forman lists the two titles together as the If I Stay series and says Mia and Adam's story is complete rather than planning a third book.

Sources: Gayle Forman's official books page, The author's If I Stay and Where She Went FAQ.

For parents

What Parents Should Know

The first novel centers on a fatal car crash, a teenager suspended between life and death, severe injuries, hospital scenes, and overwhelming family grief. The second explores the lasting effects of loss, a painful breakup, anger, loneliness, and celebrity pressure.

Romance and music are central, but the emotional focus is on mourning, memory, choices about living, and learning how to communicate after trauma.

Where the story begins

First Book in the Series

Sale price

$1498

Book #1 · Chapter Book · Ages 14–18 · 2009

If I Stay

By Gayle Forman

A young cellist must choose between life and joining her lost family after a tragic accident.

390 pages· 49,666 words· Est. 4.5 hour read

$15.99Save 6%

Paperback

Summary: Seventeen-year-old Mia, a talented cellist, finds herself in a coma after a devastating car crash that claims her family. As she hovers between life and death, Mia must decide whether to embrace the pain of survival or reunite with her loved ones in the afterlife. With memories flooding back and the weight of her choice pressing down, Mia's journey is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the power of choice. Will she find the strength to stay, or will the pull of her family prove too strong?

In reading order