Some students enter their freshman year of college knowing exactly what they want to do with their lives. Recommend for fans of Christine Riccio, Morgan Matson, and Maurene Goo.A hilarious and vulnerable coming-of-age story about the thrilling new experiences––and missteps––of a girl’s freshman year of college Other characters, including her roommate, the gossipy guy on their hall, and their tough RA, were also really well-developed and made this story one that is easy to devour.įinal verdict: Charming, compelling, and full of good humor, FRESH is a YA coming-of-age contemporary about finding your way, friendship, and the power of mistakes.

The book is written as if she is talking directly to the reader, complete with charming footnotes. This would be a really fun book for discussion because of all the humor, topics around college, and thought-provoking themes.Įlliott was a really compelling main character, and I loved how her voice shines through the text. Major themes around sexuality, shaming, and relationships were really intriguing, and I appreciated the lessons that Elliott learns along the way, as well as the way she maintains her confidence and understands her own worth and where to place blame. What I loved: This was a humorous and entertaining look at the college experience, newfound independence, and the stumbles we make along the way. As she heads back for her second semester, things are sure to be different, and Elliott must learn from her mistakes as she forges new paths forward. After something horrible occurs, her world feels like it is falling apart. Things don't always go as planned, and the project that she thought would land her a great grade may not be everything she thought it would be. As she sets off on her own, she is experiencing life to the fullest of her independence - defining much of her year by eschewing relationships and experiencing new sexual encounters. Delighted with her new roommate and dismayed by her RA, Elliott begins her year with so many ideas. She is undeclared and not really sure what she wants to do with her life, but she knows Emerson is the place where she'll figure it out. Elliott is a middle child, heading to college far from home at Emerson, a liberal arts college in Boston. FRESH is an entertaining and thought-provoking coming-of-age story.

Fresh by margot wood