3.85 AVERAGE


2019. Would be in my top five favorite SD books, except for Mclean's mother.

*3.5*

I really loved this book. I loved the characters, the romance...everything! I have to admit though, in my opinion it was pretty boring in the beginning but after I while I wasn't able to put the book down, I just had to finish the book! I am so glad I did, I loved the ending and just everything! My first book with Sarah Dessen was That Summer and I wasn't a huge fan of it so I was not really sure about this book, but I have to say that I am glad I decided to read the book.

Mclean:
I wonder what's its like to keep moving all the time and become a whole different person! There were a lot of times where I found myself talking to the book whenever she wouldn't confront her mom, or say what she was really feeling. It really frustrated me because for some reason I just felt like I wanted to tell her mom off. It was not right what she did that caused the divorce. I was telling Mclean (obviously just talking to the book) when she actually confronted her mom I was saying "You go Mclean!" But Mclean is a real nice girl.

Dave:
I think the name Dave fits him well, I could probably see him with different names but Dave was a nice choice for him. I thought it was so cute what he did in the end to the model. I wish Dave was my neighbor... He was just so sweet and so nice. I was wondering why he never made a move on Mclean, and he had a lot of chances to make a move but didn't. I thought he was a very sweet guy. (I already said that, didn't I? Oh well, it's true)

I thought this book was a little boring on a few scenes but I really enjoyed it. I am glad I gave Sarah Dessen another chance because this book was just awesome!

Best Dessen book yet! Might have something to do with how closely it seems to remind me of my own life situation right now, with things ending when I'm not ready for them to be over, but still I loved this story! And as always, with Dessen's writing, the characters seem to come alive and practically dance off the page.
emotional hopeful lighthearted medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

DNF 22%

“Home wasn't a set house, or a single town on a map. It was wherever the people who loved you were, whenever you were together.”

Another wonderful Sarah Dessen book. I love that she is a wonderful author, a go-to author that I know there will be a character I love, a story that's easy to slide right into and a plot with depth and interesting twists.

I'm a mover. We don't move every 6 months, but I don't like to stay in one house longer than 4 or 5 years......so I completely understand McLean's understanding that she can be whoever she wants to be after each move. She's completely right.

Dave was wonderful - a boy that everyone deserves. Someone who is so patient and sweet and so comfortable with who they. Riley, Deb and Heather also added a great dynamic that gave the characters more depth and personality as the banter was natural and their situations and personalities were recognizable. I'm so glad I finally got around to reading this one. I loved it!
emotional funny hopeful inspiring relaxing medium-paced

I thought this was a good story, but not the greatest of Dessen's books. The pace is quite slow, too. I wanted a little more from this book.

Goodreads Summary:
Since her parents' bitter divorce, McLean and her dad, a restaurant consultant, have been on the move-four towns in two years. Estranged from her mother and her mother's new family, McLean has followed her dad in leaving the unhappy past behind. And each new place gives her a chance to try out a new persona: from cheerleader to drama diva. But now, for the first time, McLean discovers a desire to stay in one place and just be herself, whoever that is. Perhaps Dave, the guy next door, can help her find out.

My Favorite Line(s): "Home wasn't a set house, or a single town on a map. It was wherever the people who loved you were, whenever you were together. Not a place, but a moment, and then another, building on each other like bricks to create a solid shelter that you take with you for your entire life, wherever you may go."

Why I Loved It: Ok! This was my latest audiobook, and there was not a day that I chose music over it. I even brought the audiobook inside when I got towards the end because I wanted to know what in the world was going to happen. I mean secretly, I snuck a look at the end of the book one day at work but still. David is my man. I mean I have a thing for nerdy guys with loads of intelligence with some social skills included. That’s my dream… yes I know it’s sad, but it’s mine anyways. Anyways, I love Sarah Dessen. She creates these situations that are so sad, but she slowly brings the life into them. She spins a story slowly weaving in hope, joy, and laughter with that all so important reality check that comes with tears and heartbreak.

Why You Should Read It: Because you are smart and realize that I know what is good for you. This is the next book I’m putting in my sister’s hands. Haha, she read Just Listen in about two days. Then she came back asking for more. Here is your more!