What’s Not to Love

Gr 9 Up–High school senior Alison knows what she wants in life. She is a straight-A student, editor of the school newspaper, and plans to go to Harvard. High school is only a means to an end, and she has no regrets leading so many school activities without taking the time to enjoy them. Motivating her every step of the way is her rivalry with Ethan. They compete on everything, including “blitzes,” fast-paced competitions, such as who can finish a test first. Alison has never considered Ethan a friend, and certainly nothing more. As the end of the school year—and Harvard decisions—loom closer and the two are forced to work together planning their school’s 10-year reunion, their relationship begins to change into something more. In addition to planning the reunion, Alison is also forced to confront how futures can change now that her older sister, a graduate of Columbia, has moved back home after leaving her job and ex to reevaluate her life. While Alison may be hard to identify and sympathize with for some readers, fast-paced dialogue, steamy make-out sessions, and a protagonist who grows throughout her journey will keep most thoroughly engaged. The novel is written by a husband and wife duo, but the story is told solely from Alison’s point of view.