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Fifteen by Beverly Cleary (by Cassi, 12)

"Awesoooome!!!!!!"

Book Rating: **** four stars (incredible)
Book Subcategory: Young Adult

Briefly tell us what this book is about (without giving away the ending, of course!).

In Fifteen, Jane Purdy falls in love with a guy named Stan Crandall. They have some odd times, but it turns out in the end that being yourself, being determined, and going after what you want are worth the trouble after all. A really awesome book. It's funny, too!

How does the title relate to the storyline?

Jane Crandall is fifteen. The story is about the difficulties of being fifteen. I guess that's how the title is related to the book.

Is there something interesting that the author does to present the story?

This book is written from no one's perspective. Beverly Cleary's telling it, not Jane or Stan.

If you could rewrite the story, what would you change to make it better?

If I could change anything about the book, I would change some of the dialogue in it. It was written in the 50s, so I guess "Swell" and stuff like that was normal.

Why would you recommend (or not recommend) this book to a friend?

I'd recommend this book to a friend that likes romance. It is really sweet and fun.

Why did you choose to read this particular book?

I chose this book because I really like reading about others' romance lives. I'm a really nosy girl. :)

Complete this sentence:

When I finished reading the last page of this book, I felt... Sad, I loved the book and didn't want it to end.

What type of reader do you think this book is appropriate for?

This book would be good for girls ONLY with an age range of about 12-15, depending on how much you like romance. It's not a long book, only about 200 pages. I guess the purpose of the book is to be entertaining.

Give at least one example of a memorable quote, moment, or theme from the book.

I liked a part toward the end, when Jane and Stan are watching a school movie. Stan takes off his identification bracelet and discreetly fastens it on Jane's wrist. For people who don't know, that means that a couple is going steady. I got happy goosebumps!!

Would you ever read another book by this author?

Yes

In your overall opinion, this book is...

Definitely worth your time.

About the Reviewer

What is your favorite book?

Showdown by Ted Dekker.

If a book is turned into a movie, what are you most likely to do?

See the movie and then read the book.

What is your favorite movie?

Night at the Museum.

What color most describes your personality? Why?

I think hunter green describes me best. Kind of dark, but flows with country patterns.