Stephanie Perkins' 'Isla and the Happily Ever After' finalizes the enchanting trilogy that started with 'Anna and the French Kiss.' This contemporary young adult romance centers around Isla Martin and her long-standing crush, Josh Wasserstein, as they navigate their senior year at a prestigious Parisian boarding school. Set against a backdrop of Parisian romance, New York charm, and European adventure, the novel explores themes of self-discovery, the awkwardness of young love, and the roller-coaster of emotions faced by teenagers on the brink of adulthood. With vivid character development and heartfelt prose, Perkins delivers a poignant story about the complexities of relationships, expectations, and finding one's path. 'Isla and the Happily Ever After' is a delightful conclusion for fans seeking a dose of romance mixed with life's bittersweet challenges.
The Anna and the French Kiss series by Stephanie Perkins is a charming young adult trilogy that explores themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery. The series begins with Anna and the French Kiss, where Anna Oliphant is sent to a boarding school in Paris, navigating new friendships and a complicated romance with the charismatic Étienne St. Clair. The second book, Lola and the Boy Next Door, follows Lola Nolan in San Francisco as she grapples with past and present loves, particularly the return of her first crush, Cricket Bell. The final installment, Isla and the Happily Ever After, centers on Isla Martin and Josh Wasserstein's romantic journey from New York to Paris. Each novel stands alone but is interconnected through shared characters and settings, offering readers a delightful blend of heartfelt storytelling and the enchanting backdrop of Paris.
Stephanie Perkins is an acclaimed American author renowned for her best-selling young adult romance novels, which captivates readers with their witty dialogue and relatable characters. Born in South Carolina and raised in Arizona, she cultivated a passion for storytelling early in life, pursuing a degree in Creative Writing from San Francisco State University. Perkins debuted with the charmingly quirky 'Anna and the French Kiss' in 2010, followed by equally beloved titles such as 'Lola and the Boy Next Door' and 'Isla and the Happily Ever After'. Her work is celebrated for its vibrant depiction of young love, forging genuine connections with a global audience. Perkins' influence extends beyond her romantic narratives, branching into the horror genre with 'There's Someone Inside Your House', which solidified her versatility as a writer and received a Netflix adaptation in 2021. Her contributions to young adult literature are marked by her ability to convey profound emotional depth, endearing her to readers of all ages.
Series: Anna and the French Kiss (#1)
Stephanie Perkins' 'Anna and the French Kiss' is a captivating young adult novel that explores the themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery. Set against the romantic backdrop of Paris, the story follows Anna Oliphant, an American teen sent to a French boarding school. Initially reluctant, Anna soon immerses herself in the enchanting city and its culture. The heart of the narrative is Anna's evolving relationship with the charming and enigmatic Étienne St. Clair. Perkins artfully navigates the complexities of first love, cultural adjustment, and personal growth, creating a relatable and heartfelt journey. The vivid depiction of Paris, coupled with authentic character development, makes this novel an engaging read for both young adults and anyone who appreciates a well-told love story.
Series: Anna and the French Kiss (#2)
Stephanie Perkins crafts a charming blend of romance and self-discovery in 'Lola and the Boy Next Door'. The novel follows the colorful and quirky Lola Nolan, a budding fashion designer with a penchant for eclectic outfits and vibrant wigs, who grapples with the complexities of first love and self-identity. When Cricket Bell, the thoughtful and ingenious boy next door, reappears in her life, Lola is forced to reassess her relationships and what she truly wants. Set against a vividly described San Francisco backdrop, the themes of personal growth, the struggle for originality, and the nuanced dynamics of family are explored with warmth and wit. Perkins masterfully captures the tumultuous yet exhilarating period of teenage life, delivering a youthful and heartfelt tale that resonates with readers young and old alike.
Series: Stony Bay (#1)
Huntley Fitzpatrick's 'My Life Next Door' is a captivating young adult romance that delves into themes of family dynamics, love, and self-discovery. The story follows Samantha Reed, a girl from a controlled and structured environment, whose fascination with the chaotic and loving Garrett family next door leads to a transformative summer romance with Jase Garrett. Fitzpatrick expertly contrasts Samantha's highly regimented life with that of the warm, unpredictable Garretts, allowing readers to explore the nuances of familial expectations and personal freedom. Through heartfelt and relatable characters, the novel emphasizes the importance of finding one's own path and embracing love and spontaneity along the way.
Morgan Matson's 'Since You've Been Gone' is a heartfelt and captivating young adult novel that explores themes of friendship, self-discovery, and personal growth. The story centers around Emily, a reserved and introverted teenager who is abruptly faced with the disappearance of her best friend, Sloane. In Sloane's absence, Emily discovers a mysterious list of daring tasks to complete. As she embarks on this unexpected journey, Emily pushes the boundaries of her comfort zone, meets new friends, and uncovers hidden facets of her personality. Matson crafts a compelling narrative filled with relatable emotions and genuine character development. This coming-of-age tale resonates with readers through its authentic portrayal of the transformative power of stepping out of one's shadow to forge one's own path.
by Gayle Forman
Series: Just One Day (#1)
Just One Day by Gayle Forman is an engaging coming-of-age novel that explores the transformative power of travel, love, and self-discovery. The story follows Allyson 'Lulu' Healey, a recent high school graduate, whose life takes an unexpected turn during a European summer tour. After a chance encounter with a charismatic Dutch actor, Willem, she embarks on a spontaneous adventure that leads her to question everything she thought she wanted. The narrative unfolds over a day in Paris that challenges Lulu to confront the constraints of her safe and predictable life. Forman's writing elegantly captures the exhilaration and uncertainty of stepping outside one's comfort zone, making this a compelling read about identity, choices, and the serendipity of life’s unexpected moments. The book resonates with anyone who has ever been at a crossroads, seeking to redefine themselves through courage and exploration.
Series: Hamilton High (#3)
Kody Keplinger's 'A Midsummer's Nightmare' navigates the tumultuous waters of adolescence and family dynamics through the eyes of Whitley Johnson. After expecting an easy summer at her father's house, Whitley is shocked to find him newly engaged, with soon-to-be step-siblings her age, shattering her summer plans and triggering a whirlwind of emotional and social upheaval. What follows is a poignant yet humorous exploration of finding one's place amidst unexpected changes. Keplinger skillfully intertwines themes of identity, acceptance, and the essence of family. The novel sheds light on dealing with personal challenges while unraveling romantic ties, underscoring the perils and promises of new beginnings.