Someone to Love: A Moving and Powerful YA Novel

This book deals with many issues that teenagers might face as they try to figure out who they are and what matters most. Olivia Blakely’s wealthy father is running for governor, which adds even more pressure to her already stressful life. The pressure to do well in school and present the “right” image after dealing with an abusive boyfriend have left Olivia fighting to gain control over something. She struggles with feeling inferior and has developed bulemia and has a hard time dealing with relationships and friendships. She also drinks too much (which nobody seems to have issues with) and has a hard time admitting she needs help. The story is well written but has more profanity than I like. However there are too many topics, which takes away from the story at times. Olivia is not really likeable, but you do feel bad for her. I was rooting for her and hoping she would find someone to connect with so she could work on her issues. This book is good for people 16 and over who want to learn more about issues teen girls can struggle with and about learning to accept oneself. This is a painful story to read.