This was a different book than I thought it was. Not that this was a bad thing exactly, but it threw me a bit.

The different essays in the book are all interesting and go through the different young adult books in some depth. Overall, I really did like it, but it wasn't that memorable. ( )

The author and other notable guest writers revisit and analyze YA classics through their youthful memories and now-adult perspectives. I only read the essays about the books I remember reading and it is amusing to realize how much went completely over my head as a youth. Some of the essays didn't seem to have much of a point (what was she trying to say about "Then Again, Maybe I Won't"???) but in general YA lit lovers will be entertained by this YA review and its chatty tone. ( )

"Book reports" on titles, mostly from the 1960s-1980s, that played a seminal role for reader girls. Chapters divide the books into mysteries, paranormal, romances, etc. Witty writing and great insights into the books, even those that weren't really all that well done, but books the author argues were influential nonetheless. This book would probably be most enjoyable for those women who actually grew up reading the books described. There are classics in here, however, that are still being read today and anyone who loves good book discussions will like the thoughtful, funny and relevant examination the author lends to each title. ( )

A very fun book to read. It brought back great memories of many books I read as a child and a teen. There are many I many have to go back and read and many I will check out for the first time. Lizzie talks about these books with humor and insight. It is interesting to decide which book turned us into readers. I would have to say mine would be Dorrie and the Blue Witch. Skurnick divides the books into several categories such as heroines, girls gone wild, and she comes by it supernaturally. She talks about the themes and how they affected us as teen girls and also how they still stand today. A fun book for those of us who were passionate readers as children. ( )

My friend Miriam's sister wrote this book! It was lots of fun! I love revisiting books I read when I was younger! My faves in this book are: Jacob Have I Loved, Island of the Blue Dolphins, and Summer of My German Soldier. Give it a read! :) ( )