A parent might reach for this book when their teen is feeling lonely, socially awkward, or like the last single person on earth. It's a reassuring read for any young person navigating the complex social pressures of high school. The story follows Becca, a junior who feels left behind as her friends pair off. On a whim, she tries a speed dating event and suddenly finds herself with more romantic prospects than she knows what to do with. Through a series of funny and cringeworthy dates, Becca learns less about boys and more about herself. This humorous, lighthearted novel is perfect for teens aged 13-17, normalizing the anxieties of dating and identity without being preachy or overly dramatic. It celebrates the journey of self-discovery over the destination of finding a partner.
The core topic is navigating adolescent identity, social anxiety, and early romantic relationships. The approach is entirely secular and grounded in realistic, humorous situations. The resolution is both hopeful and realistic: Becca gains self-assurance and a better understanding of what she wants, which is more valuable than simply ending up in a relationship.
Ideal Reader
A 13 to 16-year-old who feels socially awkward or 'behind' their peers in the dating world. This reader enjoys funny, slice-of-life contemporary fiction and would appreciate a story that validates their feelings of anxiety without being heavy. They are looking for a character they can relate to who is figuring things out, not one who has it all together.
Parent Prep
No specific preparation is needed. The book can be read cold. It deals with dating, kissing, and crushes in a very tame, age-appropriate manner. There is a brief, non-judgmental mention of underage drinking at a party, but it is not a central theme. The content is very much in line with a PG-rated teen comedy. A parent overhears their teen saying things like, "Everyone has a boyfriend but me," or "I don't know how to talk to people," or sees them struggling with feelings of social isolation as their friend group's dynamics change.
Age Experience
A younger reader (13-14) will likely connect most with the humor of Becca's dating disasters and the novelty of the speed dating premise. An older teen (15-17) will probably resonate more deeply with the underlying themes of identity, the pressure to define oneself through a relationship, and the realistic portrayal of evolving friendships in late high school.
What Makes It Special
Among a sea of YA romances focused on finding 'The One', this book stands out by celebrating the awkward, messy process of experimentation. Its primary focus is not on the epic romance but on the trial-and-error of dating as a means of self-discovery. The humor and low-stakes feel make it a refreshing and accessible novel that prioritizes the protagonist's relationship with herself.
Read plot summary
Becca, a high school junior, feels increasingly like a third wheel as her best friends get into serious relationships. Feeling lonely and left out, she impulsively attends a speed dating event at a local coffee shop. To her own shock, she gets several matches. The novel follows her as she juggles a series of awkward and funny dates with different boys, all while trying to manage shifting friendships, a quirky family, and her own artistic pursuits. Ultimately, the story is less about finding the perfect boyfriend and more about Becca finding confidence in herself.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Becca feels pressured to start dating because her friends are all in relationships. Have you ever felt pressure to do something just to fit in? How did the speed dating event both help and complicate things for her?
2
Compare the different boys Becca goes out with: the musician, the artist, the 'normal' one. What did her dates with each of them teach her about what she actually wants in a person?
3
Becca's friendship with Chloe becomes strained when Chloe gets a serious boyfriend. Why do friendships sometimes change in high school? What could Becca or Chloe have done to communicate better?
4
Becca is an artist who makes dioramas of significant moments. How does this hobby help her process her own life and feelings? Do you have a creative outlet that helps you do the same?
