I feel super lucky that I just finished my second contemporary YA novel in as many books that I loved. Loved, Loved, Loved. The last one was Anna and the French Kiss, this one was Not That Kind of Girl by Siobhan Vivian. So. Good.
First, for the plot: Natalie Sterling is the model student, daughter and friend. She’s vying for student council president and entrance into the top colleges. She not only has a plan, but she’s also driven – she can make the plans happen. However, when Autumn, her best friend, starts pulling away from her and a few of her plans don’t work out, Natalie finds herself doing things she normally wouldn’t do.
When you read reviews, a common phrase is usually whether or not the plot was realistic. Not That Kind of Girl might be one of the most realistic books I have read about high school. Vivian does a great job addressing school work, activities and relationships – romantic and otherwise. I thought the pacing was perfect, with the unraveling of Natalie’s perfectly-planned life snowballing at an increasing tempo as the novel continued.
Reading about Natalie was like reliving high school – in a good way, I assure you. Granted, nothing developed between me and my super secret crush, but I could completely relate to the driven, get-out-of-the-small-town vibe that Natalie had. Mostly, however, I really related to the way friendship was portrayed. The impact of Natalie’s and Autumn’s friendship falling apart was scary similar to what happened to me and a friend in high school.
All in all, a really well done book. It is equal parts hot and thought-provoking. An excellent combo if you ask me. But don’t take my word on it, check it out yourself!
Where this book came from: my very own library.
p.s. LOVED Natalie’s costume idea. Brilliant, unique and, as Spencer pointed out, classy. Must remember that for the future.
p.p.s. Now, I must read both Same Difference and A Little Friendly Advice. I feel like I’m missing out!
The Re-Shelf 