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dinipandareads 's review for:
Field Notes on Love
by Jennifer E. Smith
[b:Field Notes on Love|43601774|Field Notes on Love|Jennifer E. Smith|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1548486774i/43601774._SY75_.jpg|61681310] is everything I thought it would be and then some. I loved the idea of a book being set on a train, two strangers coming together, and with 'love' in the title of the book, you know romance plays a big part of this story. Sure, it sounded cheesy and maybe improbable in real life (kids, don't try this at home), but it was enough to get my hopeless romantic heart thumping in excitement at the thought. What are books for if not to let your imagination run a little free? Surprisingly, this was more than just a fluffy love story; it was about family, friendship, vulnerability and ultimately finding out who you are, what you want and what you're willing to do to get it.
The story was told in alternating perspectives. I liked that both Hugo and Mae were such down-to-earth characters, who were enjoyable as individuals as much as together. The almost instant connection between Hugo and Mae, which I would normally find cheesy and annoying, didn't feel at all contrived. I liked how quickly they felt comfortable with each other, and how their relationship grew. While they enjoyed their time together they weren't unrealistic about whatever the future held, but the mood didn't get bogged down with heaviness; there was a hopeful current that flowed through the story that managed to keep it light and sweet. I thought both of their character's growth and journeys of self-discovery throughout the story was well done and enjoyable to read. Sometimes all it takes is one event to get you to step out of your comfort zone and to really reach out and grab what you want.
Hugo's relationship with his siblings was also fascinating, especially considering he's one of six (sextuplets). Although they don't appear often or for long in the story, you still get an idea of their unique individual personalities. The interactions between the siblings and their parents was full of kindness, understanding, support and encouragement. The banter made me laugh out loud multiple times! Mae is equally supported by her two dads and the relationship between the three of them plus her nan was full of sass and humor. Her nan was the quirky character who was so full of life and the close connection that Mae had with her was heartwarming. Let's just say that I basically loved all the family dynamics in this book! I've been reading a lot of books with supportive family relationships and every time it fills a well of hope in me and leaves me feeling happy and content.
Although the plot was fairly predictable, sometimes you just need a happy and fluffy read that leaves you feeling good after you finish the last page. The characters really won this book for me. If you're looking for a good quick summer read, I'd highly recommend it!
“What do you love most about the world?”
Ida smiles. “I love that every generation thinks they’ve invented it. They think they’re the first ones to fall in love and get their hearts broken, to feel loss and passion and pain. And in a way, they are. We’ve been there before, of course. But for young people, that doesn’t matter. Everything is new. Which I love, because it means everything is always beginning again. It’s hopeful, I think. At least to me.”
The story was told in alternating perspectives. I liked that both Hugo and Mae were such down-to-earth characters, who were enjoyable as individuals as much as together. The almost instant connection between Hugo and Mae, which I would normally find cheesy and annoying, didn't feel at all contrived. I liked how quickly they felt comfortable with each other, and how their relationship grew. While they enjoyed their time together they weren't unrealistic about whatever the future held, but the mood didn't get bogged down with heaviness; there was a hopeful current that flowed through the story that managed to keep it light and sweet. I thought both of their character's growth and journeys of self-discovery throughout the story was well done and enjoyable to read. Sometimes all it takes is one event to get you to step out of your comfort zone and to really reach out and grab what you want.
Hugo's relationship with his siblings was also fascinating, especially considering he's one of six (sextuplets). Although they don't appear often or for long in the story, you still get an idea of their unique individual personalities. The interactions between the siblings and their parents was full of kindness, understanding, support and encouragement. The banter made me laugh out loud multiple times! Mae is equally supported by her two dads and the relationship between the three of them plus her nan was full of sass and humor. Her nan was the quirky character who was so full of life and the close connection that Mae had with her was heartwarming. Let's just say that I basically loved all the family dynamics in this book! I've been reading a lot of books with supportive family relationships and every time it fills a well of hope in me and leaves me feeling happy and content.
Although the plot was fairly predictable, sometimes you just need a happy and fluffy read that leaves you feeling good after you finish the last page. The characters really won this book for me. If you're looking for a good quick summer read, I'd highly recommend it!