If you’re like me and never get tired of the coming-of-age theme in books, then FORGIVE ME IF I’VE TOLD YOU THIS BEFORE, a YA novel from acclaimed romance writer, Karelia Stetz-Waters, will be right up your alley. But it’s so much more than just a coming-of-age novel too. It’s a book about overcoming prejudices and fighting for your identity against a bigoted world that is resistant to change. It’s about realizing that no matter how dark days get, there is always hope and goodness to be found in the world.
Triinu Hoffman just wants to be herself and love who she loves, which she discovers is other girls while attending high school in her small Oregon town in 1992. The state is in the midst of a midterm election, and on the ballot is a devastating bill that seeks to outlaw homosexuality. (Such a bill actually happened in Oregon, and again in 2000.) The state and the town are split down the middle in regards to the ballot. Among those who wish to see it pass are Triinu’s own principal, and a merciless bully named Pip, who both try to shame Triinu and make her life hell, sometimes even by working together. It’s heartbreaking to read, but Triinu is a strong woman who perseveres and overcomes adversity, discovering who she is and what she wants in life along the way. Forgive Me If I’ve Told You This Before is an inspiring, powerful story that proves love always trumps hate.
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