A review by johnnymacaroni
Certain Girls by Jennifer Weiner

4.0

I have read a few Jennifer Weiner books and have really enjoyed them. When I started this one I wasn't quite sure I would relate much to the characters and story. There is a lot revolving around the daughter's bat mitzvah and the family's Jewish faith and Cannie is older, a mom, married...I just thought I wouldn't get into it. Then I realized the alternating chapters are written from the 12 yr old daughter's perspective and I actually groaned. BUT I gave it a chance and within just a few chapters I was hooked. Which I think says a lot about Weiner's writing. The story is touching, funny and thoughtful. Also the daughter's chapters, which at first turned me off, actually ended up kind of fun and making me feel like I was reading a YA book at the same time. In fact I think Weiner should maybe try her hand at the genre. Right towards the end ...just when things are coming together and problems are getting resolved we're all thrown for a loop and initially I was angry about this. In the end though I still enjoyed the story and it gave me a welcome distraction from my own problems. It's kind of refreshing sometimes to cry over some fictional person's problems isn't it?! A good read especially if you liked Good In Bed.