This is My Worst Nightmare Please Be Nice to Me

Well, this book probably blew my mind up (in a good way). It was totally out of my comfort zone and it was worth challenging myself in a different genre.

To start, I would love to thank Netgalley and Sofia Pires Baquedano for sending me a copy of this ARC.

This book was nothing short of a masterpiece—beautifully written, painful, and was tugging on my heartstrings at 3 in the morning.

My official rating for this is 5 ⭐️. Nothing less. This book definitely had everything I was looking for in it, especially with the diverse character selection. I also love how this book was really thought-provoking and as for someone who gets easily boted with other books, I COULD NOT PUT THIS BOOK DOWN.

e-ARC from NetGalley.

When I think of literary fiction, this is the epitome of what I envision: The lives of characters told in vignettes out of chronological order. It was a fascinating character study and a beautiful exploration of relationships and, perhaps, trauma bonds?

The books that sprung most readily to mind when reading this novel were A Little Life and Normal People. The dynamic of the relationships centering around our main antagonist, Charlie, was akin to that of the friend group in A Little Life, but if Jude had been kind of a bad person. At the same time, watching the ways in which these characters repeatedly cycle in and out of each other's lives, how their worlds expand and implode, was very reminiscent of Connell & Marianne from Normal People.

That's not to say this book is the same as either of those novels. But the feelings it evoked in me were certainly similar.

There were certain aspects of this story that didn't quite hit for me. The first-person narration from Sunny of Charlie's dreamscape, for one, and the random almost-essay about Camus and the absurdity of human existence for another. In fact, I could have done without Charlie in general, though he was the catalyst for most of the story.

Ultimately, however, I found this book worth reading and full of complex emotion, complicated characters, and heart. While, at its surface, it seemed like a nostalgic story of a woman remembering pivotal moments in her life while her dying friend awaits a risky surgery, I'd say it's more than that. It was a journey through one's own timeline and a reminder that everyone you meet, even those who are only in your life for a season, impact who you will become.

A definite must-read for fans of intimately told literary fiction.

This is one of those books where it could be 1000 pages long and I would still want more.

The story revolves around Sunny, Louise and Charlie. After one of these friends is in accident, we deep dive into the beginning, middle and the current of their friendships all told from the pov of Sunny.

Essentially, this is the story about the highs and loves of friendship and what it means to love on another unconditionally.

5 stars would recommend! And if we are ever blessed with more work from this author I will 100% be reading! THANKYOU netgalley for this arc!

Sofia Pires Baquedano’s *This is My Worst Nightmare Please Be Nice to Me* is a poignant and introspective novel that explores the complexities of love, loss, and the human experience through the lens of a young woman grappling with her best friend’s hospitalization. With a narrative that is as fragmented as the emotions it conveys, this book delves deep into the psyche of its protagonist, offering a raw and honest portrayal of navigating life’s most challenging moments.

The story centers on Sunny, a high school teacher in her late twenties who finds herself in a state of emotional limbo as her best friend Charlie lies in the hospital. Sunny is a narrator who often feels like a spectator in her own life, detached yet deeply introspective. Through her eyes, readers are taken on a journey that moves non-linearly through time, weaving together the past and present in a way that mirrors the disjointed nature of memory and grief.

Baquedano skillfully captures the sense of mourning for someone who is still alive, a unique kind of grief that Sunny experiences as she contemplates a life without Charlie. This grief is compounded by unresolved issues from the past, both with Charlie and within herself. As Sunny reflects on her relationship with Charlie, as well as their mutual friend Louis, the narrative becomes a tapestry of memories, emotions, and musings that reveal the depth of her internal struggle.

One of the novel’s most compelling aspects is its use of humor as a coping mechanism. Sunny’s wry, often self-deprecating wit adds a layer of comic relief to what is otherwise a deeply emotional story. This blend of humor and melancholy creates a balanced narrative that feels authentic and relatable. The humor doesn’t detract from the gravity of the situation but rather highlights the absurdity of life’s challenges, as Sunny herself notes: “We have the dire need to love. To make our lives gorgeous and fulfilling, to love and live and be happy in spite of the absurdness of it all.”

The non-linear structure of the novel can be disorienting at times, but it effectively mirrors the way we process grief and trauma—rarely in a straight line, often looping back on itself. This structure allows readers to piece together the story in a way that feels organic, as if we are sifting through Sunny’s thoughts and memories alongside her. It also reflects Sunny’s own difficulty in reconciling her past with her present, her sense of belonging, and her struggle with the “trouble in one’s brain,” whether it be literal or figurative.

Baquedano’s writing is both lyrical and grounded, capturing the ephemeral nature of thoughts and emotions while also anchoring the reader in the reality of Sunny’s world. The author’s exploration of love—its pains, its joys, and its inherent absurdities—is nuanced and heartfelt. Sunny’s journey is one of self-discovery and acceptance, as she learns to navigate the complexities of her emotions and her relationships.

*This is My Worst Nightmare Please Be Nice to Me* is a deeply moving tale that will resonate with anyone who has ever faced the uncertainty of life, the pain of unresolved issues, or the difficulty of loving and losing. Sofia Pires Baquedano has crafted a story that is both intimate and universal, offering readers a glimpse into the intricacies of the human heart and mind.

In conclusion, this novel is a beautifully written exploration of love, loss, and the process of healing. It’s a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there can be light, humor, and the possibility of finding peace within ourselves. Baquedano’s debut is a must-read for those who appreciate stories that are as thought-provoking as they are emotionally resonant.

This made me cry a lot, while Sunny she's her best friend Charlie in the hospital we read their story and what they been through and it's really a ride.. Without spoiler this books is really intense and give us a perspective of what life can be

Are you looking for your next great read? Pick up Thos Is My Worst Nightmare Please Be Nice To Me should be next on your list.

Thank you NetGalley for this arc!!

This was so thought provoking, with such a somber feel to it. I need to sit with my feelings after this one.

In *This Is My Worst Nightmare, Please Be Nice to Me*, the author delivers a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the complexities of friendship through the eyes of Sunny, a high school teacher grappling with the hospitalization of her best friend, Charlie. This deeply introspective novel navigates the murky waters of grief and unresolved pasts while infusing humor and wit that lightens the emotional load.

Sunny’s voice resonates with authenticity as she reflects on her life with and without Charlie. The non-linear narrative beautifully intertwines their shared history, illuminating the depth of their bond while also shedding light on the lives of those around them, including mutual friend Louis and Charlie's family. This structure not only adds layers to the storytelling but also mimics the way memories intertwine in our minds, creating a rich tapestry of emotions.

The theme of mourning for someone still alive is particularly striking. Sunny's journey is marked by a profound sense of loss that resonates deeply with anyone who has navigated the challenges of watching a loved one struggle. As she grapples with the fear of what life might look like without Charlie, her reflections serve as both a tribute and a reminder of the fragility of human connections.

While the narrative explores dark and painful themes, [Author's Name] skillfully incorporates moments of comic relief, providing a much-needed balance. Sunny's witty observations and her candid approach to the absurdities of life invite readers to laugh alongside her, making the heavier moments feel more accessible and relatable.

*This Is My Worst Nightmare, Please Be Nice to Me* is a masterful blend of heartache and humor, capturing the essence of friendship in its myriad forms. It prompts readers to reflect on their own relationships, the complexities of mental health, and the importance of cherishing the connections that enrich our lives. [Author's Name] has crafted a novel that is not only deeply moving but also ultimately uplifting, encouraging readers to embrace love and vulnerability even in the face of uncertainty. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a narrative that balances the beauty and absurdity of human existence.

Thank you Atmosphere Press and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!

Truthfully, I originally had requested this book for the title because it just sounded so “Jenn coded” as people say. I ended up really enjoying it a lot more than I thought! The out of order flashbacks of their lives felt chaotic but I liked it a lot. I love seeing all of the relationships and how they came to be. The book is full of complex characters and emotions and everything I dream of literary fiction to have.

An absolutely beautiful book. Chaotic, thought provoking, emotional, well written characters.
A really good, solid read. A brilliant storyline that was well executed, I will be recommending this one.
Thank you for the arc.

Thank you so much for granting me early access to this gorgeous book. I feel like I need to apologise for not reading it as soon as I receive it because this is definitely one of my most memorable reads of 2024. What?!? Looking forward to more from this author.