Note from Dawn: This review is written by my 12-year-old daughter (LW12), who received the first three books in the “All About Us” series from Miriam at Hachette (thanks, Miriam!). I didn’t tell LW12 that the book is considered Christian Fiction, and am pleased to see the way she connected with it.
Back of the Book Blurb: Tall, blonde Lissa Mansfield is used to being one of the “in” crowd–but being accepted by the popular girls at posh Spencer Academy boarding school in San Franciscois turning out to be harder than she thought. And then there’s her New-York-loudmouth roommate, Gillian Chang, who’s not just happy to be a Christian herself–she’s determined to out Lissa, too! If Lissa can just keep her faith under wraps long enough to hook Callum McCloud, the hottest guy in school, she’ll be golden.
But when Callum pressures her to go all the way with him, Lissa has to decide for herself how far is too far. How can she see that line when he’s so gorgeous and popular and she’s so dazzled? And besides, she’s too busy shopping for a Valentino and booking the hottest celeb for the Benefactors Ball. Who knew finding a place at Spencer Academy would be so complicated?
LW12′s Review: When I first started this book, I did not expect the religious twist that Shelley Adina writes with throughout the entire book, nor did I think that she would connect it with Lissa Mansfield, who used to be the most pretty, popular girl in her school. Because of the stereotype of Christians being uptight while the “in-crowd” is more loose and parties all the time, this novel may appear to be a little indelicate to some. However, I found this story to be a refreshing relief to the common “teen scene” portrayed in many novels.
I was a little disappointed however, that the other two main characters were not as developed as Lissa. The other two books in the “All About Us” series are written from their perspectives, so maybe they will come to be as interesting and unique as Lissa.
I would recommend this book to anyone in search of a fast-read story about everyday teenagers. This book is great for anyone teenage and up, because this book’s themes are universal no matter what your religion or faith.
More information about Shelley Adina and the “All About Us” series can be found at her website.
Wow! Your daughter is only 12? That review reads like it was written by someone much older. The review is fantastic!
That is an amazing review!!!! Well done She is Too Fond of Books, jr.!
Wow–I’m so glad your daughter liked the book and the characters as much as I do
Thanks so much for the thoughtful review, LW12!
Shelley
What an amazing review!
I agree with Kathy – your daughter has written an impressively insightful review, Dawn. Great job!
Thank you all for your kind words about LW12′s review. She really loves to write, and I’ve been encouraging her to do more on the blog. Now I’m holding out “new” books as a reward for each review she posts. I hope she keeps her enthusiasm!
Great review LW12. I am very impressed with your way of descroibing the book’s strengths and points for improvement.
Fantastic review!!! Hoping to hear more from LW12 in 2009.
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