I Heart You, You Haunt Me by Lisa Schroeder

Ava and Jackson fell in love without really trying. They had a connection that not even their friends understood. Then Jackson died in a tragic accident that Ava feels responsible for. This is the story of what happens after Jackson dies, and Ava realizes that just when she thinks she can’t possibly go on without him, Jackson comes back.

Girls, this is a love story that any teen can relate to. I mean, wouldn’t it be amazing to have your first true love return to you as a ghost so you would never have to live without him? Think again! Ava soon realizes that maybe being haunted by the boy you love isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. No holding hands. No dates. No secrets. What kind of boyfriend is that? Its only later that Ava realizes Jackson isn’t there to haunt her, but to help her move forward without him, in LIFE.

Class of 2008 first-time author Lisa Schroeder writes an intriguing story of love, friendship, and the meaning of forgiveness. This novel is written in verse (poetry!) and is a beautiful read. Teen readers, I know what you’re thinking and it’s probably something like this, “Poetry? You must be kidding. I HATE poems!” Well, believe me, I am no poetry lover by any means, and frankly the idea of reading one giant poem really wasn’t at the top of my list, but let me tell you, you will love it. The story reads like a novel and I promise you will finish it faster than anything else you’ve read. Who knew poetry could be so entertaining!