Eleanor and Park, by Rainbow Rowell
Eleanor and Park, by Rainbow Rowell, is the story of two young teenagers and the epic story of their first love. Park is a typical teenager, surrounded by stupid friends and well-liked. Eleanor is the new girl in town, and the fact that she wears crazy clothes and has huge red hair does not make it easy for her to fit in. Slowly, through their bus rides next to each other, Eleanor and Park begin talking and sharing music and comic books, and soon, they can't imagine their lives without each other.
Overall, the book was a good read and really cute. I liked the characters and how different they are from each other. I guess it's true, opposites do attract. I heard a lot about this book, so I was expecting an amazing book that I would never forget; my expectations were a little too high. The book is well-written and interesting, and it reminded me of the author John Green. I would recommend this book to teenagers who enjoy the romance genre.
Reviewed by Rebecca S., Grade 10
Glendale Central Library
Comments
Eleanor & Park, by Rainbow Rowell, really is a gem. Most young adult books are criticized for being generic, exploring the same themes, following the exact same structure, having the same setting, but this one is not about a depressed teen, or a non conformist student. It is about a couple that despite having many issues, struggle through it together and have fun by depending on each other. If you are looking for a young adult book to read, choose this one, as it is a really pleasant read.
Reviewed by Anonymous, Grade 9
Grandview Library
I would definitely recommend this book. This book has a lot of aspects that would appeal to a teenager. The characters are very relatable and use mature humor to make you not wanna put the book down. I really liked how the characters interacted and acted like real teenagers. They had conversations that sounded familiar to an average teenager. Also, with a third person point of view for both Eleanor and Park, it made every scene interesting, because it showed both their thoughts. So, if you would enjoy a romantic novel, involving entertaining, unique, and relatable characters, this is the right book for you.
Reviewed by E.B., Grade 8
Grandview Library
Except for one.
Park Sheridan.
The two begin to form a friendship, and maybe a possible romance. However, will the challenges they face be the reason for their downfall?
Bittersweet, heartwarming, and everything in between, Eleanor & Park is a triumph. It is a novel that follows two misfits that are everything the other needed. Simply put, I loved this book. The way Rowell described the events taking place was perfectly done, and so is the pacing. Everything is so raw and beautiful.
Though the novel would mainly appeal to fans of the romance and young adult genres of the literary world, it deals with themes that can be resonated in anyone, young and old.
Reading this transports you back to when the novel is set, 1986, and suddenly, you feel like Eleanor. You feel like Park. Two halves of one whole.
Reviewed by Melody S., Grade 9
Montrose Library
Something the story excels at is its characters, as they all feel fleshed-out and real. Something that the book can improve is with its overall vagueness, sure, the readers are told a lot, but some important things require readers to make up their own conclusions. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys both mild tragedy and teen romance, though, the age demographic is probably ages 13+. Other than that, happy reading!
Reviewed by Tye P., Grade 9
Pacific Park Library
The writing is more appealing to this audience, as is the storyline in general. I also believe this book conveys the message of “love is a balance” and “right person, wrong timing”. From its dual narration to its relatability and interesting storyline that keeps you pondering how things may unfold, it’s a book I definitely recommend. The realism is amazing, and the way you can relate to both characters definitely adds a special connection between the reader and the characters.
Reviewed by Genesis R, Grade 11
Glendale Central Library