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Better Than The Movies by Lynn Painter

Better Than The Movies by Lynn Painter was about a young girl named Liz, short for Elizabeth, Buxbaum trying to win the heart of childhood crush, Michael Young. She goes to Wes Bennett, her childhood bully/friend, for help. Although Wes still likes to mess with her, he agrees to help her with the condition of getting the parking spot they always fight over every day. From parties throw ups to basketball injuries, Liz embarrasses herself over and over again trying to win Michael's heart. But, Wes helps her through it all.

This book was a great enemies to lovers. Even though I was able to catch who was going to fall in love with who, it was still fun to see how the romance unravels. Liz slowly started to see Wes in a better light, from his help. I also enjoyed seeing Liz getting used to her step mother since she was still mourning the loss of her mother. Liz's step mother seemed to be a genuinely nice lady, which is not often for step mothers in modern day media. This is a good book to pick up as a young teenager.

Reviewed by Anahit, Grade 11
Grandview Library 
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Melissa said…
In the Book our main character Liz Buxbaum is constantly in arguments with her next door neighbor, Wes Benett. She knew from the get go that he was NOT a good candidate for her mysterious High school experience, where she would dream of a boyfriend. As senior year rolls in, Liz's childhood crush moves back into town, and is being frustratingly close with Wes. As prom comes, she hopes with Wes's help she can win her crush over, but in the process starts noticing wes more then her childhood rival.

I think this book really showcased how romance books don't always need to include extremely romantic scenes to be enjoyable. The main characters aren't having too many intimate scenes and I think it's good for YA novels to be put on this. I also really liked how the main male character was portrayed, and I think his character was really fun to read about. However, I think for some people some of the concepts might be a little cringe, so I would keep that in mind when thinking to read this book.

Reviewed by Sara P., Grade 8
Glendale Central Library
April 8, 2026 at 5:31 PM
Melissa said…
This book follows Liz Buxbaum, a hopeless romantic who loves classic rom-coms and dreams of having her own perfect love story. When her childhood crush moves back to town, she teams up with her annoying next-door neighbor, Wes, to try to get his attention. As they spend more time together, their fake partnership starts to feel real. The story focuses on friendships, family, and figuring out what love actually looks like without giving away how things end.

I think this book is really fun and easy to read, especially if you like romantic comedies. The banter between Liz and Wes is one of the best parts because it feels natural and funny. Liz can be a little dramatic at times, but that also makes her relatable. I liked how the story shows that real relationships aren’t always like movies, even if you wish they were. I would recommend it to anyone who likes cute, lighthearted romance stories that still have emotional moments.

Reviewed by Anonymous, Grade 11
Glendale Central Library
April 8, 2026 at 5:32 PM
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