What If ... All the Boys Wanted You

January 1, 2007
Gr 7-10-Told in the style of the now-antiquated "Choose Your Own Adventure" series, the story allows readers to determine the course of the plot by offering choices at the end of each segment (To go to the cafeteria turn to page 10, to stay alone with Sebastian turn to page 59). Many of the plot choices result in the same outcomes and several end in failure, requesting that readers return to page one and try again. The novel hinges around Haley, her friends, and their romantic and social prospects and problems. The flat characters are archetypes of vapid teens. "At least if her hair proved to be a disaster, she had on a cute outfit." Boldface transitions at the end of each segment attempt to hype the interaction, adding drama where none was effectively conveyed otherwise. The book fails to portray a genuine teen voice, lacks theme, and fosters xenophobia-"Flirting with someone from another culture is one thing. But actually dating a foreigner?" Although the cover may draw in reluctant readers, the story itself has little plot and questionable values."Leah Krippner, Harlem High School, Machesney Park, IL"

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