Forever Ends on Friday

This what-if novel about loss celebrates life, asking the questions: what would you do with the rest of your life if you knew you were about to die? And would you want to know? Jamal loses someone but has the chance to bring him back, briefly. Forever Ends on Friday is also about coming to terms with other griefs, and not letting fear sabotage friendships and relationships. It considers the morality of truth-telling, self-sacrifice and forgiveness. Written with warmth and wisdom, it is a lighter read than its theme suggests, notwithstanding lumps in the throat. Despite the sci-fi element, it is full of everyday American teenage reality, bantering dialogue, family repartee (notably between Jamal and his pregnant sister, Whit), comic details, romantic connection and, above all, having fun.