Star Struck (Ladybirds, #4) (Flirty Dancing)

by Jenny McLachlan

[Kelly]

The Ladybirds series begun as a fun and entertaining middle grade series, allowing the reader to grow with each character and now ending with Pearl's story. Pearl is a tough as boots girl, she's confident but underneath her almost abrasive facade, she's insecure. Pearl and her fellow Ladybirds have now reformed a delicate bond after drifting apart during their early teen years. Friends in childhood, they've all come to accept one another for their flaws and differences until Hoshi enters their lives.

Hoshi is lovely. She's kind, articulate and represents a world in which the girls know little about. Originally from Tokyo, Hoshi is a caricature, fun, bright but she also felt like a cliche with her fashion choices. Regardless, I actually liked her character more so than Pearl. She never deliberately sabotaged Pearl but was able to see that Pearl had an ulterior motive. She was nothing but kind and patient and using her natural charm, tried to win Pearl over.

I loved Pearl's character transformation. Although her home life is devastating with an older brother who was abusive and a borderline sociopath, she's always been the popular girl and isn't used to sharing he limelight. Under her fierce facade lies a girl who longs for acceptance and to be respected by her peers. As a genuine friendship forms between the two girls, Jake is quickly forgotten. Needless to say that I adored the surprising romance. It felt incredibly natural and only endeared me to both Pearl and Hoshi.

Like previous books within the series, Star Struck left me snorting with laughter. The easy friendship between Pearl, Bea, Betty and Kat was so lovingly explored and one aspect that is lacking in so many of our young adult reads today.

Star Struck is Jenny Mclachlan at her finest. Intelligent, diverse and a wonderful exploration of teen friendships, relationships and finding yourself. Wonderfully written and such a fitting finale to what has been an incredible series.