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A review by literarycherub
Perfect on Paper by Sophie Gonzales
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I desperately have been waiting for a book like this! The discussion around bisexuality and biphobia was so refreshing and validating to read. It is honestly so exhausting being bisexual. You never feel you belong in any community. Watching Darcy navigating this and unpacking her feelings about her sexuality was emotional for me and I finally felt seen. I know this might be a heavy way to start a review, but I just had to get that off my chest. Wednesday Books have been so amazing in the representation they are providing to young readers.
While this has a great message, Perfect on Paper is also an adorable read! I love how it balanced real problems while still being a great escape. I loved seeing Darcy work out the problems of her peers and her advice has actually made me think more on my love language. Sounds silly for a 28 year old to learn so much from a fictional high school student, but it’s true! The writer, Sophie Gonzales, has done such great research into all of this and I can only imagine how fun it was to dive into.
The “love interests” were both so lovable and I honestly enjoyed every character. I feel most young bi girls have a Brooke in their lives. It gave me such a flashback to when I had a crush on my best girl friend. This made the choices Darcy had to make very relatable.
Now I wish we all had a Brougham. He was so adorable and I couldn’t help but root for him. I loved the way he challenged and discussed sexism, genders, and sexuality while being respectful and open to learning. I loved every conversation he had with Darcy.
Also, would like to mention the fun Disney trip! So this doesn’t really need to be mentioned, but I grew up in Anaheim and totally related to the references and understood how everyone either worked there or had a Disney pass. It was fun to think back to that time.
I really urge all bisexual women to read this. It is quick, intelligent, adorable, and refreshing. Also, if you enjoyed Netflix’s The Half of It, then you will love this!
Thank you to Wednesday Books and Netgalley for the arc! This title was released March 9, 2021.