I've wanted to read this book for so long. Not only because I'd heard such good things, but also because of the forthcoming film starring Michael "George Michael Bluth" Cera, who I love.
With alternate chapters written by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan, I was slightly worried that it wouldn't live up to the hype (which is mainly why it took me so long to read it), but it absolutely did.
The story takes place over one night in New York. Nick's just been dumped, so when he sees his evil ex with a new man, he has to do something, fast. So he asks Norah to pretend to be his girlfriend for five minutes. Norah's not so keen, but she's no fan of Nick's ex either so she goes along with it. Their interest is piqued because the kiss is utterly amazing and they spend the rest of the night on what turns out to be a pretty outrageous first date.
As I was reading this book, I kept thinking (and sometimes saying out loud) "This is SO GOOD!" The writing is brilliant. The characters are totally convincing and never cliched. If ever a character does something stupid, they then deal with it (or, at least, agonise over it) without allowing it to drive the plot. It also captures the excitement of New York. Of a big night out. Of first love and first heartbreak. It made me want one reckless night of my own (never gonna happen...).
Loved it. And now I can't wait for the film.
Rating: 5/5
Like this? Try Looking for Alaska by John Green
