The Way I Used to Be

Amber Smith
71 pages2-hour read
Fiction
Novel
YA
Published in 2016

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Book Brief

Amber Smith

The Way I Used to Be

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2016
Book Details
Pages

385

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Realistic Fiction

•

Modern Classic Fiction

•

Romance
Setting

2010s

Topic
Mental Illness

•

Trauma & Abuse
First Publication Year

2016

Publisher

Margaret K. McElderry Books

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

HL640L

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Super Short Summary

The Way I Used to Be by Amber Smith is a YA novel that follows Eden McCrorey, a teenager whose life is profoundly altered after being raped by her older brother’s best friend, Kevin. The story, divided into four parts corresponding to her high school years, details Eden's struggle with her trauma, changes in her personality and relationships, and her journey toward seeking justice. The book addresses issues related to sexual violence and its lasting impact.

Emotional

Dark

Melancholic

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.2

271,471 ratings

79%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Amber Smith's The Way I Used to Be delivers a poignant exploration of trauma and its aftermath. Readers praise its raw emotional depth and realistic portrayal of a survivor's journey. However, some criticize the pacing and feel certain plot elements are underdeveloped. Despite this, the book is lauded for its powerful message and relatable protagonist.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Way I Used to Be ?

A reader who would enjoy The Way I Used to Be by Amber Smith is typically a young adult interested in emotionally resonant stories about trauma and recovery. Fans of Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson or Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher will find this novel compelling. It appeals to those who appreciate deep character development and themes of resilience.

4.2

271,471 ratings

79%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

The protagonist, whose journey through high school is marked by attempts to redefine her identity after a traumatic event. She navigates complex relationships and personal struggles.

Eden's older brother, who initially shares a strong bond with her, though their relationship becomes strained as they both face challenges in understanding each other.

A close family friend and Eden's high school classmate, whose actions significantly impact her and those around her. The narrative explores the consequences of his behavior on Eden's life.

Eden's childhood best friend, who undergoes her own transformation in high school. Her relationship with Eden encounters challenges as they grow and change.

A popular and athletic student at Eden's high school, who takes an interest in her and shares his personal struggles. His relationship with Eden plays a significant role in her emotional journey.

An outcast who has liked Eden since freshman year and undergoes his own transformation during high school. His interactions with Eden highlight her evolving self-perception.

A member of the high school's alternative social scene, known for his distinct appearance and relationship with Mara. He plays a role in bringing certain truths to light.

Book Details
Pages

385

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Realistic Fiction

•

Modern Classic Fiction

•

Romance
Setting

2010s

Topic
Mental Illness

•

Trauma & Abuse
First Publication Year

2016

Publisher

Margaret K. McElderry Books

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

HL640L

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