Book Review: Tell Me Three Things by Julie Buxbaum
I picked up Tell Me Three Things because I am a huge fan of contemporary Young Adult fiction, particularly stories that weave humor and heartfelt moments against the backdrop of coming-of-age challenges. Besides, the premise intrigued me: a fresh start, a mysterious online ally, and the trials of navigating both grief and new environments.
Julie Buxbaum’s ability to blend comedy and tragedy truly shines in this novel. From the moment we meet Jessie, a teenager grappling with her mother’s death and her father’s quick remarriage, I felt an immediate connection. Jessie’s struggle to find her place at the intimidating Wood Valley High School and her reliance on the enigmatic Somebody/Nobody (SN) demonstrates both vulnerability and resilience. It’s the kind of story that hooks you from the start, effectively matching the book’s description which declares the mix of "love and loss, and pain and elation."
One of the highlights of the book is its cast of characters. They felt incredibly real, with quirks and complexities that made them feel like old friends. Jessie’s friends, from her supportive yet quirky online confidant to her less-than-perfect stepbrother, add a dynamic layer to her experiences. Their interactions propelled the story forward and made me root for Jessie even more.
However, while I appreciated the humor and the well-crafted relationships, there were aspects that could be seen as drawbacks. Some might argue that the pacing occasionally lags, especially when it dips into Jessie’s internal monologues. As much as I love delving into a character’s mind, there were moments I felt the plot could have moved along a bit quicker.
Also, the mystery surrounding SN builds suspense, yet my expectations were met with a resolution that felt somewhat predictable. While I enjoy a satisfying conclusion, I hoped for a twist that would make me rethink the entire narrative. However, that slight disappointment did not overshadow the overall enjoyment I had while reading.
The balance of Jessie’s struggle with grief and her budding new relationships is beautifully illustrated. As Jennifer E. Smith aptly noted, the mix of humor, romance, and mystery kept me turning the pages. I found myself drawn into a world full of authentic teenage experiences, from navigating crushes to coping with loss—Buxbaum captures it all wonderfully.
In closing, Tell Me Three Things is a sweet, poignant read that resonates with anyone who has ever felt out of place. It deftly explores heavy themes while maintaining a lighthearted atmosphere, proving that laughter can coexist with sorrow. While it may have some predictable elements and a pacing that wavers, the endearing characters and heartfelt moments made it a journey worthwhile.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book to fans of YA fiction and anyone looking for a story that captures the essence of adolescence. It may not shatter conventions, but it will undoubtedly make you laugh, cry, and perhaps even reflect on your own experiences of love and loss. Overall, I’d rate this a solid 4.5 stars—totally worth the read.