A review by sarahholliday
Old Enough by Haley Jakobson

challenging emotional funny hopeful inspiring reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.75

Oh my goodness. Old Enough, with its hilarious and insightful dialogue, its relentless leaning into the awkwardness of young adulthood, its unrepentant pursuit of queer joy...might just be my favorite book of the year. It was such a pure pleasure to read.

Though the first person narrative circumscribes our perspective of certain events and characters, I can't imagine this story having any POV other than Sav's. And her willingness to reevaluate her own assumptions means we get plenty of growth and *aha* moments. 

Does Sav's college universe feel a little too idyllic to be totally believable? Sure, but a realistic campus novel is not why we're here. We're here to watch a young woman navigate what it means to carve out your own identity, away from the impressions and cultural memories of your childhood. And that story is beautifully, compassionately told.
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