Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell

Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell

This novel was fun and creative. I enjoyed the snippets of Simon Snow novels and Cath's fanfiction. Cath's writing and the way she lives her life are tied in the fandom of Simon Snow, and the fanfiction that she posts online every week. She takes her writing very seriously, she doesn't like parties and she is the complete opposite of her outgoing and at times impulsive twin, Wren. So when Cath and Wren start their first semester at college, Cath is surprised that her sister doesn't want to room with her. Thrown into the unfamiliar and uncomfortable, Cath becomes roommates with Regan, an intimidating and high strung upper class-man with a boyfriend/friend Levi who always hangs around her. With nothing familiar and everything overwhelming, Cath tries to retreat to her familar circle of internet friends and avoid contact with people whenever possible. Levi, intrigued by Cath from the beginning, is constantly inviting her to parties, and asks her more questions than Cath is comfortable answering. Once she realizes he will always be around, Cath decides to befriend him, and allows him to get to know her, even her bizarre obsession with Simon Snow. The results of this risk are quite surprising and Cath begins to understand how to create comfort in the uncomfortable.

I enjoyed this book, especially since I was in college not too long ago. It brought me back to the craziness of campus, the routine of classes, and the social situations of roommates. Aside from a fanfiction obsession, I could relate to Cath and her desire to be comfortable, on time and in a routine. maybe if I had taken a risk like she did, my story would be similar, but this book was a wonderful slice of life and a fun, cute romance. 

I recommend this book to anyone who loves YA lit, and especially those who have a hard time getting out of their shell. You might be surprised what happens when you decide to take a risk. 

Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell

I can describe this YA novel in three words: real, unique and powerful. I decided to read it because it sounded interesting, and it had a recommendation from John Green. 

I found it a little strange that the book was told in third person but went back and forth between Park and Eleanor's thoughts. Now that I've finished the novel, I've realized that the story wouldn't work in any other format. The reader needs both sides of this story to get the full understanding of Park and Eleanor's fears, thoughts and emotions. This is actually a very difficult book review to write. I liked the story, and the characters, but I was confused with the ending. But at the same time, I can understand why people say it ended perfectly. 

This story is about High School, adversity, people and life. It's powerful and real with intelligent and mature characters who are just trying to get by in the complicated and sometimes cruel world called life. 

It's a good read, and yes I recommend it, especially to fans of John Green.