The Crush Dilemma

Teen geek Poppy starts writing an advice column for her high school newspaper. She feels empowered to speak her mind, hiding behind a veil of anonymity. For the first time, she becomes popular—or at least her alter ego does. But will her classmates still like her if they learn the truth? This is a cute YA novella. It does a great job of capturing the intensity and insecurities of high school relationships. Poppy is a sweetheart, trying her best to do the right thing despite her inexperience. The story is told with all the heart and humor I've come to expect from this author. Thanks, Booksprout, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.

I was given the book in return for an honest review. This book is directed at young adults of today. Certainly doesn't mean that adults can't read it or shouldn't read it. It's the story and growth of a book wise but not very world wise, Poppy. She is at the point of attempting to become her own person, being a little more comfortable in her own skin, dealing with her home life, family and the family dynamics, with school life, school relationships and their dynamics which also impact on us and, the intricacies of relationships with boys in the high school environment. The usual happens, rumours are started and spread, defying a parent to stick to a promise by slipping out of home to attend the opening of the teen club in town, misunderstandings arise as, what seems, more often than not, isn't what is! She has permission from a teacher and starts a "dear Aubrey" feature for her school. As a result she can be her own person and not have to live up to everybody else's expectations including her own. This seems to land her in trouble which offer opportunity to act on her own ideas and allows her to grow. I think she does reasonably well at navigating and getting out the trouble. She is able when its important to stand up and do what is brave and right and with the help of special people who stand by her, who know that she really is fabulous and who let her be who she wants to be and who she's grown to be. I could relate to her both then and and at times in the now and, I walked away with a message that it's okay to be yourself no matter what. A most enjoyable book which had me smiling, shaking my head and, cringing at times.

A good young adult book by Susan Hatler. Poppy is a junior in high school and has a plan. She’s tired of being the responsible, overachiever but doesn’t want to be too rebellious. She’s gotten permission to do an online advice column for the school under an assumed name. The perils of a good, geeky high school girl. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.