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A review by annierosebel
The Yearbook by Holly Bourne
3.5
Another one that's tricky to review because I am acutely aware that I'm not the target audience!
The concept is strong - a teenage girl who is very quiet, acutely aware of the social environment and 'popularity', and kind of observes everything.
I really liked the elements where school staff were swept up in the popularity and social environment - I think it made a very valid point that social interactions between teenagers are complex.
Almost all of the unpleasantness and bullying was quite explicit - and I think it would've been strong to try to weave in some examples of how subtle cruelty can be.
I did cry, especially at her home life - again, this wasn't always the most subtle. It wasn't insensitive, but it felt a bit heavy handed to drive the point home at times (though I am not the target audience). I enjoyed the strength of her aunt figure, and how she was strong And a cat lady!
Her relationship with Elijah was sweet, but I kind of wish we didn't always have to have a relationship when friendships would also be valuable.
Also - there was a graphic design element on the cover that majorly spoilt the ending in my opinion.
The concept is strong - a teenage girl who is very quiet, acutely aware of the social environment and 'popularity', and kind of observes everything.
I really liked the elements where school staff were swept up in the popularity and social environment - I think it made a very valid point that social interactions between teenagers are complex.
Almost all of the unpleasantness and bullying was quite explicit - and I think it would've been strong to try to weave in some examples of how subtle cruelty can be.
I did cry, especially at her home life - again, this wasn't always the most subtle. It wasn't insensitive, but it felt a bit heavy handed to drive the point home at times (though I am not the target audience). I enjoyed the strength of her aunt figure, and how she was strong And a cat lady!
Her relationship with Elijah was sweet, but I kind of wish we didn't always have to have a relationship when friendships would also be valuable.
Also - there was a graphic design element on the cover that majorly spoilt the ending in my opinion.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying, Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, and Panic attacks/disorders
Moderate: Alcoholism
Minor: Mental illness