
I'll Be There is a deeply moving young adult novel about two brothers, Sam and Riddle, who have spent their lives on the run with their mentally unstable father. Their world changes when Sam meets Emily Bell, whose kind and stable family offers them a glimpse of a different life. The story explores the complexities of first love, the profound bond between siblings, and the search for belonging. However, a significant tragedy forces Sam and Riddle into a desperate fight for survival in the wilderness, testing their resilience and loyalty. This book is emotionally profound, tackling themes of mental illness, family dysfunction, and the power of human connection.
Emily Bell believes in destiny. To her, being forced to sing a solo in the church choir--despite her average voice--is fate: because it's while she's singing that she first sees Sam. At first sight, they are connected. Sam Border wishes he could escape, but there's nowhere for him to run. He and his little brother, Riddle, have spent their entire lives constantly uprooted by their unstable father. That is, until Sam sees Emily. That's when everything changes. As Sam and Riddle are welcomed into the Bells' lives, they witness the warmth and protection of a family for the first time. But when tragedy strikes, they're left fighting for survival in the desolate wilderness, and wondering if they'll ever find a place where they can belong. Beautifully written and emotionally profound, I'll Be There is a gripping story that explores the complexities of teenage passions, friendships, and loyalties.