Had trouble getting into this one

filled star filled star filled star star unfilled star unfilled
skhathaway Avatar

By

I got off to a rocky start with this book, but it somewhat grew on me by the end. It seems effort was put into making the language and plot points realistic to teens, but the flirtatious banter between the main characters felt forced and uncomfortable and overall wasn’t the rom-com I somehow expected. The storyline tackled multiple major issues and challenges - from mental health, class, relationships, friendships, parents - all within the context of navigating the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. At times this was too much for the container of the story, but it also reflects the reality of the overwhelm so many felt during this time. Despite this, it actually came together at the end. Although I had difficulty relating to the book, I hope it will resonate with teens, particularly those who like drama, and provide means for processing the complex emotions that so many felt during the pandemic.