Wednesday, March 30, 2011

Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins


Book Summery:
Anna is looking forward to her senior year in Atlanta, where she has a great job, a loyal best friend, and a crush on the verge of becoming more. Which is why she is less than thrilled about being shipped off to boarding school in Paris—until she meets Étienne St. Claire: perfect, Parisian (and English and American, which makes for a swoon-worthy accent), and utterly irresistible. The only problem is that he's taken, and Anna might be, too, if anything comes of her almost-relationship back home. -goodreads.com

Book Review:
The title of this book really threw me off...it just seemed, you know, cheesy. However, this book is anything but. It didn't take long before I completely fell in love with this story. This is a character-driven story. They are flawed, beautiful, and full of personality and individuality. I found myself longing to be a part of their crew. The romance in this story is gradual and has a nice progression. Anna, the main character is realistic and downright lovable. I loved the character's individual traits and quirks, such as Anna's love of films. I couldn't wait to find out what movie she would watch next. I love that she blogs about them! As much as I loved the romantic aspects, this is ultimately a coming of age tale. You really get a sense of character growth and maturity. I can honestly tell you that my review doesn't do this story justice. If you are looking for a substantial and satisfying read, this is the book for you! I look forward to upcoming works by Stephanie Perkins! Make sure to swing by her site. :)

Favorite Quote:
"If this were a vacation, I'm sure I'd be charmed. I'd buy an Eiffel Tower key chain, take pictures of the cobblestones, and order a platter of escargot. But I'm not on vacation. I am here to live, and I feel small." (p. 19)

Cover Art Commentary:
Okay, I'll admit, the title and cover of this book threw me off a little. Now that I've read (and come to love) this novel, the cover seems perfect. I love that Anna and St. Cliare are sitting on a bench. ;) The colors are vivid and eye catching. There seems to be an overall sense of hope and anticipation, which is an underlying theme throughout the entire storyline. :)

Overall Rating:


7 comments:

  1. FANTASTIC review. You've got a point on the cheese. If not for my book blogging homies I totally would have passed on this one.

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  2. Whenever I think of this book I think great romantic read but good to know there's more to the story. Can't wait to read it myself.

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  3. As always a great review, I so want this

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  4. Oh what a lovely review...I cant wait to read this book...squeeeeel...why am I waiting. Grr I think its because Im overwhelmed with review books!!

    ps...glad you loved the indie book store...we will have to meet there someday when they have a YA author event. I met a local ya author there last month...:D I think they have a lot of poetry readings and childrens authors too.

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  5. Aargh! You HAD to go and make me want this more... ;-) I'm so glad you liked it!

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  6. Haha yeah the title is a bit cheesy. I got this one for Christmas, and in my family we open one gift at the time and then show everyone what we got. So yeah, all my relatives (aunts, uncles etc.) wanted to know the name of the book. Quite embarassing.:p

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  7. Great review. This was such a sweet fun romance with great character growth!

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