Humour

teen fiction; school drama (for girls). Here's one that tackles the issue of bullying without actually mentioning the word "bullying" (almost no teens actually use that word to describe the everyday meanness and teasing that happens at school). The characters have dimension and the book acknowledges that there are no easy answers--it also acknowledges that everyone is guilty of some meanness at some point or other. I really enjoyed Ruby's story and look forward to reading more in the series (there are several more volumes already). ( )

The Boyfriend List is a cute, funny adorable little read that will leave you infatuated with some of the boys (my favorite is Noel) and sympathizing with poor Ruby Oliver.

Heartbreak, broken friendships, cute boys, kissing, dirty rumors... this book was your run-of-the-mill high-school book, except some details made it different and enjoyable. For one, the author is very funny and Ruby puts herself in the most ridiculous situations, then has to face the consequences and pay it with her dignity.

However, after one too many episode of humiliation she's completely shattered and starts having panic attacks. Though panic attacks and anxiety are very serious issues and not a subject to joke with, I didn't expect it will be very well handled in a book labeled as Humor; and it's partly why I liked it. Ruby was not perfect nor did she hate herself or her body (her life was another matter), a little bit dramatic when it comes to Jackson, but not over the top.

The ending was bittersweet but satisfying. I know there are more books and her misery isn't ready to end yet, but I liked the state I left her in:

"Out of the Tate universe, standing at the edge of sea". ( )

Oh how I love YA novels. The boys, the drama-it was totally a trip down memory lane. This book almost made me want to be 15 years old again. Almost. ( )

I remember when I read this book in high school. It brings back funny memories, I read it probably over 10 times. I really enjoy and recommend this book to teen girls. ( )