Galgorithm

June 1, 2015

Gr 9 Up-Years ago, Shane Chambliss had his heart broken badly. Now, he's secretly helping the most undesirable guys in school. He uses the "Galgorithm," a mathematical formula he devised, to help these guys refine their looks and behavior in order to date the hottest girls. Shane's very successful as an advisor, but hasn't himself used the Galgorithm. He's happy just to hang out with his best female friend Jak and give advice to others. But soon things start to unravel. When revealing information about the Galgorithm is leaked and published in the school paper, things (and relationships) fall apart. Shane tries to right the wrongs he caused by keeping the Galgorithm secret, and to make up with, and hopefully date, Jak. Shane is a likable character, but the narrative's sometimes stilted language keeps readers at arm's length. The story takes some time to gain momentum while it explains the Galgorithm and background on the couples the protagonist has brought together. The characterizations are refreshingly non-stereotypical: for example, the jealous, hotshot athlete is also an environmentalist with two moms. The ending is mixed: some aspects are realistic, while Shane's own resolution is a fairy tale-like. The relationship formula is a cute concept, but not executed to its fullest potential, although the math jokes are witty. VERDICT Shane's mishaps are fun, but this is a strictly optional addition to romance collections.-Kelly Jo Lasher, Middle Township High School, Cape May Court House, NJ

Copyright 2015 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

June 1, 2015
Grades 8-11 Shane Chambliss is dealing with the usualspending time with his best friend Jak, avoiding the school bully, applying to college, and battling senioritis. But when he is rejected by his first love (whom he refers to as Voldemort), he uses all he knows about girls, guys, and relationships to create the Galgorithm. He quickly establishes a quiet rep among Kingsview High nerds as being able to help them overcome their nerdiness and get the girl. Things get out of hand when a teacher comes to Shane for help, his relationship with Jak goes south, and he begins to see that girls (and guys) are people and don't necessarily fit a formula. Witty banter and endearing characters make this novel a delightful read, particularly for reluctant readers. Serious issuesfriendship, self-confidence, materialism, and romanceare handled with aplomb by Karo. This book would be a good choice for fans of John Green's An Abundance of Katherines (2006).(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2015, American Library Association.)