- I loved the setup for ALEX, APPROXIMATELY and I am glad I went into this blind without reading the synopsis. Bennett breathed life into the premise and indeed delivered a heartfelt coming of age story that was refreshing and original.
- Bailey "Mink" Rydell was such a breath of fresh air. She is starting over when she moves in with her Dad, after a very traumatic incident on the East coast. Bailey sees this as a chance to grow and be the person she wants, rather than simply standing on the sidelines or running away. She is adorable, awkward and very real.
- Portor was a teenage girls dream guy. He is swoony with his facial scruff, shyness and over the top lines. Every time he was present I just couldn't help but smile. I loved how patient he was, and he made both Alex and I laugh with his quizzes, thoughtful gestures, and adorkableness.
- Secondary characters from the old man at the museum to Grace, Bailey's new friend added depth. I adored Grace and would love to see a story dedicated solely to her. Diversity, parental involvement, frank discussions, and reliable role models made this a win. The story was balanced, for instance, Bailey's Dad is very involved, and her mother not so much, but it was addressed and not as a poor reflection of who Bailey is.
- The romance was realistic from misunderstandings to open honesty. This novel is sex-positive, from discussions beforehand to birth control. It touches on masturbation, self-discovery and doing what is right for you. I would not hesitate to allow my young teen to read this, and would enjoy the conversations it brought forth.
- The story offers depth and is the perfect coming of age story. For fans of the movie, "You've Got Mail," you will adore the chapter intros and references to this film and more. Bailey is a movie buff, and I loved discovering all the hidden and not so hidden references.
- The California setting screams summer, beach, and sun. From the surf shops to local food carts you'll feel transported by Bennett's visuals.
- I saw a little of myself in Bailey. She is the type of character you can relate to, in fact, many of the characters were. Bennett made them all realistic, but not cliche' and it is what made the story come to life.
- Amy Melissa Bentley was the perfect narrator for Bailey's story. She nailed Bailey from her mannerisms to her feelings. She enhanced awkward moments and tender ones. I felt her panic, joy, and uncertainty. Her male voices were well done, and I swooned over Porter. ALEX, APPROXIMATELY, was made for audio.
Audiobook provided by the publisher. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer