A Sweet Dive into Awkward Teen Romance: Review of The Boyfriend List by J.L. Wyer
As I approached The Boyfriend List by J.L. Wyer, I was immediately drawn to the charming premise of a shy yet endearing protagonist navigating the tumultuous waters of high school crushes and unexpected romantic entanglements. Winner of the 2023 HOLT Medallion Award for Young Adult fiction, this book promised a delightful mix of humor, mishaps, and, of course, love. And it delivered!
At the heart of the story is Maegan Murphy, a lovable, awkward girl whose nerdy obsessions and clumsiness lead her into all sorts of hilariously embarrassing situations. From an ill-timed collision with her best friend’s cute older brother, Grayson, to the notorious moment her secret Boyfriend List is plastered all over school, Maegan’s journey is a charming tale of self-discovery and misadventure. I found myself grinning as I read her escalating catastrophes, a delightful reflection of the chaotic yet formative nature of teen years.
Wyer’s writing style is refreshingly accessible, weaving humor and heart alike. The pacing perfectly mirrors the highs and lows of high school life. Moments of cringeworthy hilarity are balanced with sincere revelations, making it a rollercoaster of emotions that kept me engaged. One standout component is the friendship dynamics, particularly Maegan’s bond with her best friend Noah, who is genuinely supportive and adds depth to the narrative. Their camaraderie reminded me of how crucial friendships are during those transformative years.
What I particularly loved about this book was its embrace of the “fake dating” trope in such a relatable context. The way Maegan navigates her evolving feelings for either Grayson or Christian, another boy from her list, adds a delightful layer of romantic tension that made my heart race. I chuckled at the absurdity of the situations she found herself in, often reminiscent of my own teenage escapades—who doesn’t have a story where things went hilariously awry?
One memorable quote that had me nodding in agreement reflected Maegan’s humorous take on her life: “Murphy’s Law isn’t just something I’ve heard of; it’s my personal philosophy.” This quote encapsulates the essence of her character and the whimsical chaos that defines her universe.
While some readers might argue that certain plot elements feel predictable or cliché, which I can see, it didn’t detract from my enjoyment. Rather, it felt like a warm hug from nostalgia—a sweet reminder of what it was like to experience first crushes and all the intricate emotions that accompany such moments.
The Boyfriend List is a must-read for anyone who enjoys heartwarming rom-coms, nostalgic throwbacks to high school drama, or simply needs a drop of joy in their day. If you’ve ever rolled your eyes at your own embarrassing moments or felt the butterflies of young love, this book will resonate deeply. Wyer has crafted a tale that’s not just for young adults; it’s a celebration of the awkward charm we all carry into adulthood. I closed the book with a smile, feeling a little lighter, and frankly, a bit nostalgic for those sweet, awkward days. Highly recommend!