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young adult book reviews & more

The Darlings Are Forever by Melissa Kantor

The Darlings Are ForeverJane, Victoria, and Natalya have been best friends for as long as they can remember. They have their own table at Ga Ga Noodle, matching necklaces, and even a motto: may you always do what you’re afraid of doing. But when the girls start their freshman year at three different high schools around New York City, facing their fears may not be as easy now that each is on her own. The Darlings are finding it hard enough to find the time to get together amidst all of Natalya’s homework, Victoria’s father’s political campaign, and Jane’s drama rehearsals. With so much time apart and feeling alone in scary new settings, the wonderful friendship these girls share starts to fray at the seams. Can Jane, Victoria, and Natalya find out what being a Darling really means and come together again before it’s too late?

The Darlings Are Forever is a heartwarming and innocent look at friendship in a tumultuous time in life. What I loved most about this novel was most definitely the characters. Every girl who can recall the scary transition between middle and high school, high school and college, or transferring to a new school will be able to relate to Jane’s, Victoria’s, and Natalya’s struggles and insecurities as they begin high school without their support group of friends. I really like that this story was so clean; Kantor is free to really delve into each Darling’s personal issues without the distractions of alcohol, drugs, shoplifting, or the like. I feel that the innocence of the story makes it stronger because it makes it all the more accessible for teen girls whose primary concerns include boys, friends, and being accepted. The whole story is enjoyable to read, as it entertains readers with a wonderful mix of New York City glitz and the lighter side of high school drama. I was quite won over by The Darlings Are Forever and its sweet portrayal of high school life and friendship, and I can’t wait to see more of the Darlings in The Darlings in Love.

This novel is sure to be enjoyed by fans of The Teashop Girls by Laura Schaefer, Rose Sees Red by Cecil Castellucci, and Suite Scarlett by Maureen Johnson.

Rating: 4.5

Review copy from publisher Disney-Hyperion

2 munch(es) :

Robby said...

This sounds brilliant and adorable.

Nina said...

Great review. I like the sound of it, so I'm going to look for it the next time i'm at the bookstore. ;)

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