Summer of the Geek by Piper Banks

Summer is looking good for Miranda Bloom. Not only does she have a gorgeous boyfriend Dex, but she’s also got a great job looking after a ten-year-old mini-genius, Amelia. Unfortunately, though, things aren’t turning out as well as Miranda hoped. Amelia practically hates Miranda the moment she sees her; this musical prodigy would rather spend hours practicing piano than bonding with her au pair. Dating Dex is wonderful, but Miranda can’t help but feel that he’s keeping something from her, something related perhaps to his fashion model of an ex-girlfriend. To top that off, Miranda’s driving test is fast approaching, and she’s sure she’s going to fail. Can Miranda fix all her summer troubles in time to just enjoy her vacation?

Though I have not read this novel’s prequel, Geek High and Geek Abroad, I was still able to enjoy Summer of the Geek. This is a primarily character driven novel that deals with the various pressures of being a teen, but outside of high school. Protagonist Miranda Bloom is a good pick to represent the female teen; she struggles with tons of insecurities regarding her appearance as compared to others’, her relationship with her boyfriend, and her success in taking care of Amelia. I’ll admit that this constant self doubt becomes very annoying to read about, but I can’t deny that it is realistic. Miranda and her friends’ various exploits were interesting enough and will keep the reader moderately entertained. Overall, Summer of the Geek is a light, humorous read and a decent story.

Summer of the Geek will be enjoyed by fans of Fringe Benefits by Valerie Frankel, The Queen Geek Social Club by Laura Preble, and Confessions of a Triple Shot Betty by Jody Gehrman.

Rating: 4.0

Review copy from publisher Penguin