The Big F

July 1, 2017

Gr 9 Up-A debut novel sure to resonate with high schoolers who eagerly anticipate graduation and the start of college. Danielle Cavanaugh is one of those students until she flunks a senior English class and Ohio State University (the school her mother always wanted her to attend) rescinds its offer of admission. In an effort to show her parents that she is mature enough to solve her problems on her own, Danielle enrolls in a nearby community college with the intention of passing the required English class and transferring immediately to Ohio State for the spring semester. Danielle gets a job in the college bookstore and befriends the quirky but lovable Porter, who writes everything down in notebooks. While out with her friend Zoe one night, Danielle becomes reacquainted with a childhood friend, Luke, and romance blossoms. Her parents are thrilled she is dating a star athlete from a well-known family. As the semester progresses, however, Danielle discovers a passion for environmental issues and begins to pursue interests that are far from what her parents had planned. And is Luke really the guy for her? Or is the right guy in plain sight? Danielle is a savvy, likable character with whom teens will easily identify. Sexual situations are hinted at but are not central to the plot. VERDICT Romance fans will enjoy this fast-paced story that features an interesting set of characters and satisfying conclusion.-Anne Jung-Mathews, Plymouth State University, NH

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