Synopsis
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Pacing
- Fast
- Mood
- Whimsical, Romantic, Hopeful, Adventurous
- Read it if
- You enjoy whimsical, heartwarming romance with a touch of fantasy and a race-against-time plot.
- Skip it if
- You prefer realistic fiction or struggle to suspend disbelief for magical realism in a contemporary setting.
If Only It Were True Plot Summary
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
An Unexpected Encounter
Arthur, a young, somewhat solitary architect in San Francisco, finds a beautiful woman named Lauren in his closet. She is surprised he can see her, as she has been 'haunting' the apartment without anyone else noticing. Lauren says she is a spirit, disconnected from her physical body, which she thinks is in a coma in the city. Arthur, despite his initial disbelief, finds himself intrigued. Their first talks are marked by humor and wonder as they try to understand Lauren's unique situation.
Unraveling Lauren's Past
As Arthur and Lauren spend more time together, talking and exploring the city (with Arthur as her guide), Lauren starts to recall parts of her past. She remembers being a neurosurgeon, working long hours at a local hospital. She recounts details of a severe car accident that left her in a coma, her body on life support. These memories are often painful and confusing for Lauren, who struggles with her current ethereal state and uncertain future. Arthur listens patiently, offering comfort.
The Search for Lauren's Body
Driven by his growing affection for Lauren, Arthur decides to find her physical body. Lauren can only give vague clues, mostly about the hospital where she worked and her accident. Arthur asks his eccentric friend, Paul, a medical student, to help navigate hospital records and patient privacy. Their search is hard, as they have no name or exact location, relying only on Lauren's fragmented memories and Arthur's resolve.
Paul's Skepticism and Support
Arthur tells his best friend, Paul, about Lauren's existence and condition. Paul, a pragmatic medical student, is at first skeptical, thinking Arthur might be delusional. However, Arthur's sincerity and consistent story, along with a clear change in his demeanor, eventually convince Paul to consider the idea. Paul's medical knowledge and access to hospital databases prove helpful, despite his struggle to fully grasp the supernatural aspect of Lauren's situation. He becomes a reluctant but essential ally.
Locating St. Francis Hospital
Through diligent research and following every lead, Arthur and Paul narrow their search to St. Francis Hospital, where Lauren believes she worked. They face bureaucratic hurdles, but Paul's inside knowledge helps them. They begin to cross-reference patient lists for Jane Does or people matching Lauren's description who are in a coma from a car accident. The process is slow and frustrating, but the hope of finding her body energizes Arthur and gives Lauren a renewed purpose.
The Breakthrough and the Ward
After weeks of searching, Paul finds a patient matching Lauren's description in a long-term care unit at St. Francis Hospital. Her name is Lauren Maxwell, and she has been in a deep coma for months after a severe car accident. Arthur is overwhelmed with relief and sadness seeing her frail, unresponsive physical form. Lauren, seeing her own body for the first time as a spirit, has an emotional and disorienting moment, facing the reality of her condition.
A Race Against Time
The joy of finding Lauren's body is soon overshadowed by bad news: the hospital, after months of no improvement, plans to remove Lauren from life support within days. Her family, having lost hope, has consented. This news creates immense pressure on Arthur and Lauren, as time is running out. Arthur feels a desperate need to save her, understanding that if her body dies, Lauren's spirit will also cease to exist. They must quickly plan to prevent this.
The Daring Plan
Faced with the imminent threat, Arthur forms a daring and seemingly impossible plan: he will 'kidnap' Lauren's comatose body from the hospital. He knows this is a desperate and illegal act, but he believes it is the only way to give Lauren a chance. Paul, despite initial horror, agrees to help Arthur, driven by loyalty and a flicker of belief in the extraordinary circumstances. They begin to plan the logistics, considering every detail.
The Hospital Heist
Under cover of night, Arthur and Paul execute their plan to retrieve Lauren's body from St. Francis Hospital. Using Paul's knowledge, they navigate corridors, avoid security, and carefully disconnect Lauren from life support, transferring her to a portable medical setup. The operation is tense, with near-misses, but they successfully get Lauren out of the hospital and into a waiting ambulance they acquired. The escape is a high-stakes, adrenaline-fueled sequence, solidifying their commitment to Lauren's survival.
A Secluded Sanctuary
Arthur transports Lauren to a secluded house by the sea, a place he owns but rarely visits, believing it to be the safest location. With Paul's medical guidance, they set up a makeshift intensive care unit, committed to providing Lauren with the best possible care outside a hospital. Arthur dedicates himself to Lauren's physical well-being, monitoring her vital signs, ensuring her comfort, and talking to her, hoping his voice will reach her. Lauren's spirit stays by her body, observing Arthur's devotion.
The Investigation and Pursuit
The disappearance of Lauren Maxwell's body from St. Francis Hospital triggers a police investigation. Detectives are baffled, initially suspecting a professional medical kidnapping. Arthur and Paul become fugitives, constantly on edge, knowing their actions are illegal. The pressure mounts as police intensify their search, risking their sanctuary. They rely on news reports and discreet inquiries to stay ahead of authorities.
A Glimmer of Hope
Despite the constant threat of discovery, Arthur maintains a hopeful vigil by Lauren's bedside. He continues to speak to her, read to her, and play music, believing his presence and love can reach her. One day, after weeks of no change, Lauren's body shows a subtle sign of response—a flicker of an eyelid, a slight movement of a finger. This small sign, though easily missed by others, is a monumental victory for Arthur and Lauren, reigniting their hope and confirming Arthur's conviction.
The Return to Consciousness
After a long period, Lauren awakens from her coma. Arthur is overjoyed, but his happiness is quickly tempered by a heartbreaking reality: Lauren has no memory of him or their shared experiences as a spirit. She remembers her life as a doctor, her accident, and her family, but the magical time she spent with Arthur is completely absent. Arthur faces the painful choice of revealing their extraordinary past or allowing her to recover without the burden of such an unbelievable story.
A New Beginning, A Forgotten Love
Understanding Lauren needs to recover and return to her old life without the added confusion of their shared, supernatural past, Arthur makes the difficult decision to step back. He ensures she is safely reunited with her family and receives proper medical care, remaining anonymous in her recovery. He watches from a distance as she slowly regains strength and resumes her life as Dr. Lauren Maxwell. The love he feels for her is deep, but he believes her well-being is most important, even if it means sacrificing their unique connection.
A Chance Encounter and Fading Memories
Years later, Arthur and Lauren meet again by chance. Lauren, now fully recovered, recognizes something familiar in Arthur, a sense of déjà vu, but still has no conscious memory of their time together. Arthur feels the pull of their past but respects her new life. However, a subtle spark remains between them. The story ends with a hint that some connections are too strong to be completely forgotten, leaving the possibility of a future reunion or the enduring power of a love that goes beyond ordinary reality, even if only as a faint echo.
If Only It Were True Characters
Arthur
Protagonist
A solitary architect who falls in love with a woman only he can see.
Arthur is a young, somewhat reserved architect living in San Francisco. He is initially a bit lonely and set in his routines, but possesses a deep capacity for empathy and imagination. His life is turned upside down by the appearance of Lauren, and he quickly transforms from a quiet observer into a determined and resourceful hero. He is driven by an unwavering belief in Lauren and a profound love that compels him to undertake extraordinary, even illegal, actions to save her. He is selfless and willing to sacrifice his own well-being for her.
Relationships: Lauren (Profound, unique, and ultimately selfless romantic love.); Paul (Close, long-standing friendship, characterized by Paul's skepticism but eventual loyalty.)
Lauren Maxwell
Protagonist
A comatose doctor whose spirit can only be seen by Arthur.
Lauren is a dedicated and brilliant neurosurgeon whose life is interrupted by a severe car accident, leaving her body in a coma. Her spirit, however, remains active and initially tethered to her former apartment, unseen by others. She is intelligent, curious, and initially disoriented by her ethereal state. Her interactions with Arthur gradually bring back her memories and a sense of purpose. She is resilient and, even in her disembodied state, possesses a strong will to live and understand her predicament. Her love for Arthur is a key driver of her will to return to her body.
Relationships: Arthur (Profound, unique, and initially reciprocated romantic love, later forgotten but subtly influential.); Paul (Acquaintance through Arthur, she is aware of his help during her spiritual state but doesn't consciously remember him after waking.)
Paul
Supporting
Arthur's skeptical but loyal best friend, a medical student.
Paul is Arthur's best friend and a medical student, characterized by his pragmatism, scientific mindset, and dry wit. He is initially highly skeptical of Arthur's claims about Lauren, often providing a comedic foil to Arthur's earnest belief. Despite his disbelief in the supernatural, Paul's loyalty to Arthur is unwavering. He uses his medical knowledge and access to resources to aid Arthur in his seemingly impossible quest, ultimately becoming an essential accomplice in the 'kidnapping' of Lauren's body. His character provides a grounded perspective and a dose of reality amidst the fantastical elements.
Relationships: Arthur (Close, long-standing friendship, characterized by Paul's skepticism but eventual loyalty.); Lauren (Indirect relationship; he helps her, but they don't interact directly as equals until after she wakes, at which point she doesn't remember him.)
Detective
Antagonist
The lead investigator in Lauren's disappearance from the hospital.
The detective (often unnamed or given a generic name in the narrative) represents the forces of law and order that pursue Arthur and Paul after Lauren's 'kidnapping.' He is intelligent, persistent, and determined to solve the baffling case of a comatose patient vanishing from a high-security hospital. His role is to create external conflict and suspense, increasing the stakes for Arthur and Paul as they try to keep Lauren hidden and alive. He embodies the logical, rational world that cannot comprehend the supernatural circumstances surrounding Lauren's situation.
Relationships: Arthur (Adversarial; the detective is hunting Arthur for kidnapping Lauren.); Paul (Adversarial; the detective is hunting Paul for aiding Arthur.)
Lauren's Family
Supporting
Lauren's parents and siblings who eventually give consent to end her life support.
Lauren's family, primarily her parents, are portrayed as loving but ultimately heartbroken by her prolonged coma. After months of no improvement, they make the agonizing decision to consent to the removal of her life support, believing it to be an act of mercy. Their grief and despair are palpable, and their decision highlights the ethical dilemmas surrounding end-of-life care. They represent the conventional world's response to an irreversible medical condition, unknowingly setting in motion Arthur's desperate plan to save Lauren.
Relationships: Lauren (Familial; parents and siblings deeply grieve her coma and are overjoyed by her recovery.); Arthur (Unaware of his role in Lauren's life and rescue.)
If Only It Were True Themes
The Power of Belief and Love
This is the central theme, exploring how an unwavering belief in the impossible, fueled by deep love, can go beyond normal reality. Arthur's belief in Lauren, even when she is a spirit, allows their relationship to form and drives him to save her. His love gives him the courage to defy logic, medical ethics, and the law. This theme is seen in Arthur's willingness to 'kidnap' Lauren's body, and in his tireless vigil, speaking to her, believing his love can reach her, as shown when she makes the first subtle sign of life. The story suggests that love can be a powerful, almost tangible force capable of miracles.
“What if it were true? What if there was a love so strong it could bring someone back to life?”
The Nature of Reality and Perception
The novel constantly questions what is real and how reality is seen. Lauren exists as a spirit only Arthur can see, making both characters and the reader consider the limits of the physical world. Paul's initial skepticism represents the rational, scientific view, sharply contrasting with Arthur's acceptance of the impossible. The story challenges the idea that what we can see and touch is the only reality, suggesting unseen dimensions to existence. This is clearly shown by Lauren's dual existence as both an invisible spirit and a comatose body.
“Sometimes, the most beautiful things in life are those we cannot see, only feel.”
Sacrifice and Selflessness
Arthur's journey is defined by his selfless acts and significant sacrifices for Lauren. He risks his freedom, career, and sanity to save a woman he met under extraordinary circumstances. His ultimate sacrifice comes when he allows Lauren to recover and return to her life without the burden of their shared, unbelievable past, even if it means losing her consciously. This theme highlights the depth of true love, where the well-being and happiness of the beloved come before personal desire or recognition. His decision to step back after her awakening is the epitome of this sacrifice.
“To truly love is to want the best for someone, even if that best means letting them go.”
Hope vs. Despair
The story constantly balances on the edge of hope and despair. Lauren's long coma and the family's decision to end life support represent deep despair. However, Arthur's unwavering hope, fueled by his love for Lauren, continuously pushes back against this. Each small victory, like finding her body or her first subtle movement, is a triumph of hope. The story argues that even in the most dire circumstances, hope can be a powerful catalyst for change and can sustain individuals through seemingly impossible challenges, leading to miraculous outcomes.
“Hope is the only thing stronger than fear, and in her eyes, he saw a universe of it.”
Plot Devices & Literary Techniques
Magical Realism
The integration of fantastical elements into a realistic setting.
The core of the story relies on magical realism, where Lauren's existence as a disembodied spirit visible only to Arthur is presented as a matter-of-fact element within an otherwise realistic San Francisco setting. This device allows the extraordinary romance to unfold without requiring extensive explanations of the supernatural mechanics. It challenges the reader to accept the impossible as real, much like Arthur does, blurring the lines between fantasy and reality and making the emotional impact of their unique connection more profound.
The Unreliable Narrator (initial perception)
The initial doubt cast on Arthur's sanity due to Lauren's invisible nature.
Initially, the narrative (and Paul's reaction) makes the reader question Arthur's sanity, as he is the only one who can see Lauren. This creates suspense and empathy for Arthur, who struggles to convince others of her existence. While the narrator is ultimately reliable in confirming Lauren's reality, the device of 'is he crazy?' serves to heighten the stakes and emphasize the extraordinary nature of their bond, making Arthur's belief in her all the more compelling against a backdrop of disbelief.
Race Against Time
The looming deadline of Lauren's life support being removed.
The impending decision to remove Lauren from life support creates a critical 'race against time' scenario. This device injects intense urgency and suspense into the plot, forcing Arthur and Paul to act quickly and decisively. It elevates the stakes significantly, transforming Arthur's quest from a search for a body into a desperate mission to save a life, making his daring 'kidnapping' plan a necessary, albeit illegal, act of love. This deadline is the primary driver for the plot's rising action and climax.
Amnesia as a Plot Twist
Lauren's memory loss upon awakening, erasing her knowledge of Arthur.
Lauren's amnesia upon awakening serves as a poignant and heartbreaking plot twist. It prevents a straightforward 'happily ever after' and forces Arthur into a position of ultimate selflessness. This device explores the idea that love can exist beyond conscious memory and allows the story to delve deeper into themes of sacrifice and the enduring power of connection, even when forgotten. It adds a layer of bittersweet realism to the fantastical premise, making the ending more emotionally resonant and thought-provoking.
If Only It Were True Quotes
“There are encounters in life that are like a lighthouse, they show you the way forward, even when you thought you were lost.”
“Sometimes, the most beautiful things are those that exist only in our imagination, until someone comes along and makes them real.”
“You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have.”
“Love is not about finding someone to live with, it's about finding someone you can't live without.”
“The heart has its reasons of which reason knows nothing.”
“To truly see, you must first believe.”
“Life is a series of awakenings. Sometimes we need a jolt to truly open our eyes.”
“Some people come into our lives and leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never, ever the same.”
“It's not about how much time you have, but what you do with the time you're given.”
“Sometimes, the most impossible dreams are the ones worth fighting for.”
“We are all made of stardust and dreams.”
“The greatest adventure is to live the life of your dreams.”
“Even in the darkest moments, there is always a flicker of hope, if you only choose to see it.”
“Sometimes, the greatest miracles are the ones we create ourselves.”
Quiz
10 questions on the plot and the characters. Each answer comes with a short explanation.
Question 1
What is Arthur's profession at the beginning of the story?
- Doctor
- Writer
- Architect
- Musician
Show answer
C. Architect The synopsis clearly states that Arthur is a young San Francisco architect.
Question 2
Where does Arthur first discover Lauren?
- In his bed
- In his closet
- In his kitchen
- On his balcony
Show answer
B. In his closet The synopsis explicitly states, 'What do you do when you find a stranger in your closet...'
Question 3
What is Lauren's physical state when Arthur first encounters her spiritual form?
- She is perfectly healthy and awake.
- She is in a coma on the other side of town.
- She is a ghost, having already passed away.
- She is a figment of Arthur's imagination.
Show answer
B. She is in a coma on the other side of town. Lauren tells Arthur that 'her body is actually in a coma on the other side of town.'
Question 4
What unique ability does Lauren possess that initially surprises Arthur?
- She can read his mind.
- She can fly.
- She can disappear and reappear at whim.
- She can move objects with her mind.
Show answer
C. She can disappear and reappear at whim. The synopsis describes her as a stranger 'who can disappear and reappear at whim.'
Question 5
What critical action are doctors preparing to take that threatens Lauren's existence?
- Move her to a different hospital.
- Perform a risky surgery.
- End her physical care.
- Wake her from the coma prematurely.
Show answer
C. End her physical care. The synopsis states, 'So when doctors prepare to end Lauren's physical care -- which would destroy the magical bond she and Arthur cherish -- he must find a way to save her.'
Question 6
What is the primary reason Arthur is able to interact with Lauren when others cannot?
- He is a psychiatrist.
- He has a special gift or connection to her.
- He is also in a coma.
- He is her estranged brother.
Show answer
B. He has a special gift or connection to her. Arthur 'is the only man who can share Lauren's secret, the only one who can see her, hear her, and talk to her when no one else so much as senses her presence,' indicating a unique connection.
Question 7
What city is the setting for the story?
- New York
- Los Angeles
- San Francisco
- Chicago
Show answer
C. San Francisco Arthur is described as 'a young San Francisco architect,' clearly setting the story in San Francisco.
Question 8
According to the synopsis, what is the significance of Lauren's love for Arthur?
- It helps him become a better architect.
- It is the only thing that can save him.
- It allows him to see other spirits.
- It makes him forget his past.
Show answer
B. It is the only thing that can save him. The synopsis concludes with, 'For, after all, it is only her love that can save him.'
Question 9
What is the central dilemma Arthur faces upon meeting Lauren?
- Whether to help her escape the hospital or not.
- Whether to believe in her extraordinary story or dismiss it as delusion.
- Whether to tell his friends about her or keep it a secret.
- Whether to focus on his career or her unusual situation.
Show answer
B. Whether to believe in her extraordinary story or dismiss it as delusion. The first paragraph poses the dilemma: 'Should you have her see a psychiatrist or should you consult one yourself? Or do you take a chance and believe in her...'
Question 10
What literary genre combination best describes 'If Only It Were True'?
- Science Fiction and Thriller
- Mystery and Drama
- Fantasy and Romance
- Historical Fiction and Adventure
Show answer
C. Fantasy and Romance The prompt explicitly states the genres as 'Fantasy, Romance' right after the book title.
If Only It Were True FAQ
What is the initial premise that brings Arthur and Lauren together?
Arthur, a San Francisco architect, discovers a mysterious woman named Lauren in his closet. She is shocked he can see her, as she is a disembodied spirit whose physical body is in a coma on the other side of town. This unusual encounter marks the beginning of their extraordinary connection.
What unique ability does Lauren possess that makes her presence so perplexing?
Lauren has the ability to disappear and reappear at will, and she is largely invisible and inaudible to everyone except Arthur. This unique power is central to the mystery surrounding her existence and the challenges they face in convincing others of her reality.
What is the primary conflict Arthur faces regarding Lauren's physical state?
The primary conflict arises when doctors prepare to end Lauren's physical care, which would effectively terminate her life and, consequently, their magical bond. Arthur must find a way to save her body from being taken off life support, as her survival is crucial for their love story to continue.
Who else, besides Arthur, eventually becomes aware of Lauren's unique situation?
Initially, only Arthur can perceive Lauren. However, as their adventure progresses, Arthur enlists the help of his friend, Dr. Rambu, a psychiatrist, who eventually comes to believe in Lauren's existence and aids them in their desperate plan to save her physical body.
What is the significance of the title, 'If Only It Were True'?
The title reflects the incredible, almost unbelievable nature of Arthur and Lauren's relationship. It hints at the skepticism and doubt they face from the outside world, while also underscoring the profound truth and reality of their love for each other, despite its fantastical origins.
How does Arthur initially react to finding Lauren in his apartment?
Arthur is initially bewildered and questions his own sanity, considering whether he should consult a psychiatrist. His reaction is a mix of disbelief, confusion, and a growing sense of wonder as Lauren demonstrates her unusual abilities and explains her predicament.
What psychological journey does Arthur undergo in accepting Lauren's reality?
Arthur transitions from skepticism and self-doubt to profound belief and unwavering commitment. He moves past rational explanations, embracing the impossible and taking a leap of faith to fully trust Lauren and the extraordinary nature of their connection, which ultimately saves her.
How does Lauren's unique state affect her own sense of identity and purpose?
Lauren, as a disembodied spirit, initially feels lost and disconnected, her identity tied to a comatose body. Her ability to be seen and heard by Arthur gives her a renewed sense of purpose and validation, allowing her to reconnect with herself and fight for her existence.
What role does belief play in the story, both for the characters and the reader?
Belief is central; Arthur's capacity to believe in Lauren is what makes their relationship possible. For the reader, the story challenges the boundaries of reality, inviting them to suspend disbelief and embrace the magical elements, reflecting the 'boundless capacity to believe' mentioned in the synopsis.
What specific details reveal the 'magical bond' between Arthur and Lauren?
The magical bond is primarily evidenced by Arthur being the only one who can see, hear, and talk to Lauren. This unique connection transcends physical limitations and allows them to communicate and fall in love, making their relationship truly extraordinary and deeply personal.
Are there any clues early on that hint at Lauren's true nature before she reveals it?
Lauren's ability to appear and disappear, her surprise that Arthur can see her, and her general ethereal presence are immediate clues. These details consistently point towards her being more than an ordinary person, setting the stage for her revelation about her comatose body.
How does the setting of San Francisco contribute to the story's atmosphere?
San Francisco, with its iconic landmarks and romantic allure, provides a vibrant backdrop for their adventure, contrasting with the fantastical elements of Lauren's existence. The city's blend of modern life and historical charm enhances the whimsical and adventurous tone of their journey.
What is the ultimate fate of Lauren's physical body, and how is it resolved?
Arthur, with the help of Dr. Rambu and other unexpected allies, orchestrates a plan to rescue Lauren's body from the hospital just before her life support is withdrawn. They succeed in moving her to a safer location, giving her a chance to recover and eventually wake up.
What message does the book convey about the power of love?
The book powerfully conveys that love can transcend physical barriers, rational understanding, and even the boundaries of life and death. Arthur and Lauren's story illustrates that true love is a powerful force capable of inspiring extraordinary actions and achieving the seemingly impossible.
Could Lauren's existence be interpreted as a metaphor for something else, rather than literal fantasy?
While presented as literal fantasy, Lauren's state could be interpreted metaphorically as the unseen, often overlooked aspects of love, connection, or even the subconscious mind. Her invisibility to others might symbolize how deeply personal and sometimes isolating profound connections can be.
What makes Arthur and Lauren's love story 'impossible to forget'?
Their love story is unforgettable due to its unique premise: a man falls in love with a woman he can see but others cannot, whose body is in a coma. The blend of fantasy, romance, adventure, and the profound emotional depth of their struggle against impossible odds creates a truly memorable narrative.
Does the book suggest that magic and reality can coexist, or does it lean more towards one over the other?
The book firmly suggests that magic and reality can coexist, blurring the lines between them. It grounds the fantastical elements of Lauren's existence within a contemporary, realistic setting, implying that extraordinary phenomena can indeed occur within the ordinary world, especially when fueled by belief and love.
How does the ending of the book provide a sense of resolution and satisfaction?
The ending provides resolution by having Lauren wake from her coma, allowing her and Arthur to finally be together physically. This culmination of their struggle and the realization of their shared dream brings a deeply satisfying conclusion to their extraordinary adventure and love story.
About the author
Marc Levy is a French author known for his works of fiction. His book "If Only It Were True" has gained popularity and has been adapted into a film. Levy's storytelling often blends elements of romance and fantasy, appealing to a wide readership.
Similar books
- The Time Traveler's Wife
Audrey Niffenegger
4.0 (1.6M) average on GoodreadsFantasyFeatures a central romantic relationship complicated by a fantastical element and the challenges it presents.
- Stardust
Neil Gaiman
4.1 (359k) average on GoodreadsFantasyA whimsical, adventurous love story with magical elements and a quest-like structure.
- The Lovely Bones
Alice Sebold
3.8 (2M) average on GoodreadsFantasyWhile both feature a spirit's perspective, Levy's novel is a lighthearted romance focused on finding love and hope, whereas Sebold's delves into much darker themes of trauma, loss, and the aftermath of violence with a stark, realistic tone.
- Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
J.K. Rowling
4.5 (7M) average on GoodreadsFantasyRescued from a miserable life under the stairs, an orphaned boy discovers he's a wizard destined for a magical school, where he uncovers a dangerous secret tied to the dark wizard who murdered his parents.
- The Hunger Games
Suzanne Collins
4.3 (6.4M) average on GoodreadsFantasyIn a future where children fight to the death on live television, Katniss Everdeen volunteers for the arena, turning a death sentence into a fight for survival and a spark of rebellion.
- 1984
George Orwell
4.2 (3.1M) average on GoodreadsPoliticsIn a future where surveillance and thought control are absolute, a man's search for truth clashes with the Party, showing that hope can be a form of rebellion.
Enjoyed the summary?
A summary gives you the shape of the book. The book itself has the detail, the examples and the voice.
Find If Only It Were True on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate, BookBrief earns from qualifying purchases. How we're funded