This brilliant, New York Times bestselling novel from the author of the Newbery Medal winner When You Reach Me explores multiple perspectives on the bonds and limits of friendship.
Long ago, best friends Bridge, Emily, and Tab made a pact: no fighting. But it’s the start of seventh grade, and everything is changing. Emily’s new curves are attracting attention, and Tab is suddenly a member of the Human Rights Club. And then there’s Bridge. She’s started wearing cat ears and is the only one who’s still tempted to draw funny cartoons on her homework.
It’s also the beginning of seventh grade for Sherm Russo. He wonders: what does it mean to fall for a girl—as a friend?
By the time Valentine’s Day approaches, the girls have begun to question the bonds—and the limits—of friendship. Can they grow up without growing apart?
“Sensitively explores togetherness, aloneness, betrayal and love.” —The New York Times
A Boston Globe–Horn Book Honor Book for Fiction
Named a Best Book of the Year by The New York Times,The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal,The Boston Globe, The Guardian, NPR, and more!
I received an advance reader’s copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I wasn’t sure what to expect from this book, especially as it’s written in third-person, but I really like it after having read it. The story mainly focuses on Bridge, but there are also a few perspectives from Sherm’s and the initially unknown Valentine’s Day character. It follows their lives as they’re trying to navigate growing up, moving on, and friendship.
This is a really lovely and super realistic look at these themes. The characters’ confusion, hesitation, and fear are definitely things I felt during that time in my life. I also like how it juxtaposes Bridge’s feelings and perspective as a seventh grader against the Valentine’s Day girl’s as a high schooler. It goes to show that no matter what age, the things they’re dealing with are always relevant and are always confusing. I also love the focus on friendships, including the good, the bad, and the changing. The book deals with all of this so well.
Though I think the epilogue is entirely unnecessary, the rest of the book is wonderful. I enjoyed the themes, the characters, and the realistic portrayal of all involved. Great book!
