A review by mkjacobswrites
Just for Clicks by Kara McDowell

5.0

Kara McDowell's debut novel Just for Clicks is one of the best new YA books! The narrative accurately captures the experience of high school teenagers in the Arizona Valley of the Sun in 2019, specifically featuring Internet-famous twin characters Claire and Poppy Dixon and their blogging mother Ashley. Claire, the narrator, provides an honest and real look into a high-schooler trying to find her own identity amidst a life of likes and texts. The book is already enchanting as it follows Claire trying to be her true self without betraying the Dixon brand. Then, Claire finds a secret in Ashley's diary and her narrative becomes even more heart-wrenching. From familial love to romantic relationships to self esteem, Just for Clicks reveals that under the surface of this teen Internet star's life is the depth of real emotions and the courage of personal discovery. Beyond suggesting that no online profile, no matter how perfect, provides an accurate picture into reality, Claire's journey explores the choices that each young adult has to make in today's society -when to make eye contact, when to press delete, and when to say no. Just for Clicks was a pleasure to read for an Arizona twin, but it will be a sure favorite with YA readers anywhere.