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Penny is sick of boys and sick of dating. So she vows: no more. It's a personal choice. . .and, of course, soon everyone wants to know about it. And a few other girls are inspired. A movement is born: The Lonely Hearts Club (named after the band from Sgt. Pepper). Penny is suddenly known for her nondating ways . . . which is too bad, because there's this certain boy she can't help but like. . . .
This book should be a staple in every secondary school library - not only is it the perfect book to empower teenage girls, it will also teach the boys out there a thing or two about what not to do! I'd love to see this on the big screen too - I mean, remember that song from Hot Chick : "Boys are cheat and liars, they're such a big disgrace..."? That song surfaced in my mind while I was reading this!
Ladies, admit it - at some point in our very colourful lives, we thought it best to swear off boys completely...or at least tried. How wonderful it could have been nursing a broken heart with not one, not two, but a whole club of girls who has been through the exact same heartache! Penny Lane's Lonely Hearts Club started as a one-person club, but its universal representation glues together ready to empower themselves and be there for each other. I wish there was a club like this when I was in school, because I'm sure it would have been needed - but since I did not have one, what a joy to read about it now!
Lonely Hearts Club is more than just a novel about swearing off boys or Venus alienating Mars. There is a strong theme about dedicated friendships, extending one's helping hand to others, trust and reconciliation and discovering who you truly are.
Penny is a great narrator and an inspirational person. I admire how strong she really is - I realised that while I thought I was strong, Penny stood defiant in cases where I would have just gone pliant and stupid. Her conflicting emotions and thought-process are recognisable, and her openness very admirable. Her friends Tracy and Diane are alive in every girls' heart and her fellow club mates make one cool club! The solidarity and support they all give to each other are more than a girl's dream. And of course, I think I should mention the boys too. You'll meet the jerks, the flirts, the mysterious, the cheaters, the ex-es and the swoon-worthy male specimen in the Lonely Hearts Club too - the girls will guide you through, worry not, and I'm sure you'll love the boys that do pass the inspection!
One other strong theme in the book are The Beatles. There is a lot of crazy Beatles references, and Penny's parents are the number one fans. It's hilarious!
Lonely Hearts Club is a meaningful book - girls, you have to read this book! Boys - don't worry, if you behave we still adore you :)
Four
* Book reviewed as part of the UK Book Tours.
7 comments:
Lol thanks for such a great review. I wasn't sure about this book but it sounds really good and I can't wait to pick up a copy.
Thanks for the great review! This looks so cute :)
I have had this on my wishlist for what seems like forever. So glad you enjoyed it - I cant wait to get my hands on it :D
I really loved this book too. I totally plowed through it. It was cute and fun with a great message. It's perfect for teenage and pre-teen girls. It was so fun to read that I sometimes forgot I was reading about a serious topic - self-esteem and self-worth - those things can impact so many areas of our lives that it's scary. Such great ideas about friendships too and not letting a relationship take over your life. Loved it! Great review!
I read this book earlier this year & really enjoyed it. I agree.. all middle school libraries should have a few copies! Total awesomeness :-)
Great review!
I only sort of skimmed your review as the book arrived today (Thanks!) I can't wait to read it!
Excellent review - this sounds fab, and it's really good to know that it's the kind of book that can genuinely empower readers too. Great stuff.
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