Frankly in Love

David Yoon's "Frankly in Love" is a New York Times Bestselling YA novel that delves into the complexities of cultural identity, family expectations, and first love through the eyes of Frank Li. Frank, a Korean American teen in Southern California, falls for a white girl, Brit, despite his parents' insistence that he date Korean. To circumvent their rules, he enters a fake dating pact with Joy Song, who faces similar pressures. This seemingly simple plan unravels, forcing Frank to question his understanding of love, friendship, and his own identity. The book explores themes of racism, forgiveness, and acceptance with humor and heart, making it an excellent read for ages 12-18.

"High school senior Frank Li takes a risk to go after a girl his parents would never approve of, but his plans will leave him wondering if he ever really understood love--or himself--at all"-- High school senior Frank Li is caught between his parents' traditional expectations and his own Southern California upbringing. His parents have one rule when it comes to romance: 'Date Korean. But Frank falls for Brit Means, who is smart, beautiful-- and white. Joy Song is in a similar predicament, and they make a pact: they'll pretend to date each other in order to gain their freedom. It seems like the perfect plan, until their fake-dating maneuver leaves Frank wondering if he ever really understood love- or himself- at all. -- adapted from jacket