How (Not) To Find A Boyfriend by Allyson Valentine

How (Not) To Find A Boyfriend by Allyson Valentine

Release Date: June 13, 2013

Publisher: Philomel

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 304

Summary: A funny and smart romantic comedy about getting the guy. . . and finding yourself.

Sophomore Nora Fulbright is the most talented and popular new cheerleader on the Riverbend High cheer squad. Never mind that she used to be queen of the nerds—a chess prodigy who answered every question first, aced every test and repelled friends at every turn—because this year, Nora is determined to fully transition from social pupa to full blown butterfly, even if it means dumbing down her entire schedule. But when funny, sweet and very cute Adam moves to town and steals Nora’s heart with his ultra-smarts and illegally cute dimple, Nora has a problem. How can she prove to him that she’s not a complete airhead? Nora devises a seemingly simple plan to barter her way into Adam’s classes that involves her classmates, friends—and her older brother Phil’s award-winning AP history paper. But soon, Nora can barely keep track of her trades, and struggles to stay in control of her image.

In the end, the only thing that can save Nora is a chess tournament—that she has to compete in wearing her cheerleading uniform. Can she prove to everyone that she can be both a butterfly and a nerd?

Allyson Valentine has created a story so full of enamoring characters, pitch-perfect humor, and delightfully frustrating romance that it will leave you cheering.  Great for fans of Stephanie Perkins's Anna and the French Kiss, Susanne Colosanti and Sarah Dessen.

My Thoughts: When I first read the summary of this one, I knew I had to read it! My type of book!

And I was right!

We are introduced to Nora who is really smart but decided to reinvent herself so she has become a cheerleader and she hides just how smart she is. She drops her AP classes and takes more normal level classes. She hides a lot of things, even from her best friend.

But when a new boy arrives named Adam she can’t resist letting her inner nerd show. Adam is also very smart so she doesn’t think he’ll be interested in her, since he thinks shes a brainless cheerleader.

I loved all the interactions between Nora and Adam. I also loved seeing how much Nora grew as a person. I loved her relationship with her family even if it was rocky at times.

And I loved loved how the chess angle fit in this one. I don’t know much about chess but I loved how Nora had to make deals to make everything fall into place.

This one was a very cute novel yet it had so many lessons throughout the pages. I loved Nora’s voice. I loved her family and friends and especially Adam.

Overall: If you are looking for a cute contemporary than you must try this one! It was spunky, cute, adorable, and I loved every minute of it! I’d definitely recommend this one!

Cover: Its neat! Love the guy as a chess player! Thought provoking cover!! 

What I'd Give It: