By the Book

A book about a girl who seeks guidance for navigating high school life from classic novels...Count me in!

In this adorable story, Mary begins a new school and gains a new set of friends who seek her advice on boys based on the knowledge she has gleaned from books the likes of Anna Karenina and Jane Eyre. Mary's take on several of the males at Millville High leads to the creation of the Scoundrel Survival Guide. But along the way, Mary finds herself actually enjoying the company of the main scoundrel, Alex. She has to face the fact that maybe the classic novels have led her down the wrong path. Maybe men aren't such scoundrels and cads.

I think the concept of this book is fun and entertaining. I love all of the references to the classic novels and their characters. There are many witty comments and fun banter between Mary and Alex. The characters are all very likable and sweet, even those that are thought originally to be terrible. If there was a Mary in my high school, I would have enjoyed being her friend.

As an educator in middle and high schools, I would definitely recommend this book to students. I also think that many adults, like myself, will enjoy this read. It is light and fun and makes the reader feel hopeful about life and love.