Rate this book

Clear rating

1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

V is for Virgin

by Kelly Oram (Goodreads Author)

3.85 of 5 stars 3.85 · rating details · 1,575 ratings · 296 reviews

When Val Jensen gets dumped for her decision to stay a virgin until marriage, the nasty breakup goes viral on YouTube, making her the latest internet sensation.

After days of ridicule from her peers, Val starts a school-wide campaign to rally support for her cause. She meant to make a statement, but she never dreamed the entire nation would get caught up in the controversy...more

ebook, 360 pages

Published December 11th 2012 by Bluefields

more details... edit details

Get a copy:

More…

Friend Reviews

To see what your friends thought of this book, please sign up.

Lists with This Book

The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin

"You Should Totally Read This YA Book!"

29th out of 153 books — 160 voters

What we've read so far in 2013...

224th out of 3,031 books — 764 voters

More lists with this book...

Community Reviews

(showing 1-30 of 3,000)

filter | sort: default (?) | rating details

Jan 01, 2013 Lex rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: stand-alone, contemporary, chick-lit, music

I love the cover. :)

OMG. I cried! I freakin' cried because of this book! What the heck is wrong with me? LOL. I liked it. A lot. Not because the guy, Kyle is so swoon worthy or that he's oncredibly hot. It's because I like how the story went. From the first page, V is for Virgin, have my attention. I like Valerie's character. Her fight for this cause, for what she believes in, is so... honorable and responsible of her. Well, okay, I don't know the right words to describe Valerie.

I liked how she...more I love the cover. :)

OMG. I cried! I freakin' cried because of this book! What the heck is wrong with me? LOL. I liked it. A lot. Not because the guy, Kyle is so swoon worthy or that he's oncredibly hot. It's because I like how the story went. From the first page, V is for Virgin, have my attention. I like Valerie's character. Her fight for this cause, for what she believes in, is so... honorable and responsible of her. Well, okay, I don't know the right words to describe Valerie.

I liked how she got her doubts about it cause let's face it, that is so not easy to do. Especially when a lot of people doesn't want to believe in you and they are ridiculing you. It's normal to get doubts. Especially because of those big things you need to decide carefully.

So Kyle here, the lead vocalist of Tralse, is up for the challenge which is Valerie. I like him okay, he made me smile and laugh, but I still like Ryan Miller more than him. LOL. It's all because of the way he approach Valerie. His methods are not good. :/ I actually want to shake him a little as to why can't he be THAT kind of person.

In that second to the last chapter, or is it third? Anyway, I keep on wondering like Valerie. I mean, is love really not that enough to enjoy the relationship? Is it really that necessary to have sex when you are in a relationship? I'm not being prude, but I just have to admit that that questions got me.

Well, I love Valerie's cause. So much that I'm giving this book a well-deserved FIVE stars. Although it's really a bit lacking since I really dig love story. But am turning a blind eye for that one because of Valerie and V is For Virgin cause. Btw, that last chapter reminded me of a movie called, Crazy Little Thing Called Love. It's a Thailand love story and I love it. ;) It just remind me of that because of the interview and the guests. ;)

EDIT: I feel the need to clarify some things in my review. :P I rated it 5 stars because of Valerie's cause. I know I gave it way too high but I just like that cause too much. BUT if you remove that V is for Virgin thingies, I would end up rating it 3 stars for the story. or maybe 2.5 stars. Kyle and Valerie doesn't really have that much exposure with each other. So yeah. And NO, I am not editing my rating for it. :P

Oh! I so want those jewelries too! I was like trying to see if there's really visforvirgin.com site. LOL. :P(less)

17 likes · like · see review

Dec 10, 2012 Inspired Kathy rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-in-2012

V is for Virgin Blog Tour: http://iamareadernotawriter.blogspot....

I read V is for Virgin a month ago and it's a book I still think about. Kelly created some unforgettable characters and very memorable scenes.

I think this book has a much needed message - it's ok to wait to have sex. Despite the fact that it seems that everyone around Val believes and acts differently she sticks to her values. Amazingly Kelly manages to tell the story without coming across preachy or putting down those who do ch...more

10 likes · like · see review

Feb 08, 2013 Angela rated it 1 of 5 stars

Shelves: meh, girl-power, ya

It started out okay. Boyfriend was a jerk for dumping Valerie when she doesn't have sex with him. But then the whole campaign starts, and everybody popular wants to be her friend, hottest guy in school likes her and is a virgin himself, and I felt like I was being preached at.

If I had a daughter, would I encourage her to read this book? Um, maybe. If the issue wasn't so cut-and-dried. Valerie has somewhat solid reasons for wanting to wait til marriage to have sex, but the whole thing just bugged...more

6 likes · like · see review

Jan 01, 2013 Katy rated it 2 of 5 stars

2.5 stars - This book had a really great concept, but for some reason, I just didn't feel very satisfied at the end.

To start off, yes, this book was cliche, but that wasn't the reason. I don't mind cliche as long as it was entertaining. I felt Oram did a much better job writing with "Being Jamie Baker" because Ryan totally made the book, where Kyle failed to do so here. Ryan was sweet and totally swoon-worthy, and his bickering with Jamie was quite engaging.

I think Oram attempted the same ambien...more

10 likes · like · see review

Dec 30, 2012 Marie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: adorable, cute, cute-couples

OMG I WAS CRYING READING THIS, IT'S SO FREAKING FUNNY, THAT SONG KYLE SINGS FOR HER IN THE SCHOOL FESTIVAL IN FRONT OF EVERYONE WHILST SHE'S SITTING INSIDE WITH THE MOST POPULAR GUY IN SCHOOL, I AM CREASED.

I have to share it with you guys, here it is its called 'Cryin' Shame'-

“She’s smokin’ hearts with a burnin’ flame
She’s got a wild side without a name
And when she’s riled it’s a cryin’ shame
Yeah! Yeah! Yeah! I’ve got it bad
Yeah! Yeah! Yeah! I’m going’ mad

Cause in your head you’ve got it right
W...more

10 likes · like · see review

Feb 23, 2013 Francy rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: goodgirl-badguy

El Top diez de Razones Porqué Virgen Val Apesta
10. Me llamó hombre de un sol oéxito.
9. No aprecia el encantador sobrenombre que le di.
8. Me hace escribir blogs estúpidos sobre ella a las cuatro de la mañana.
7. Alienta a la gente a que no tenga sexo.
6. Me mandó a volar cuando le pedí salir.
5. Está enamorada de un idiota.
4. No responde ninguna de mis llamadas.
3. Le gusta coquetear con esa política de mira-pero-no-toques.
2. Toqué un maldito concierto sólo para ella y ni siquiera vino cuando dijo qu...more

3 likes · like · see review

Apr 07, 2013 ✳*Ninoshkᗩ rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: wtf

Cute!! ^^

2 likes · like · see review

Dec 11, 2012 Donna {Book Passion for Life} rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: ya-contemporary-romance, kindle, for-review, from-author, blog-tour

V is for Virgin was my first book by author Kelly Oram and I have to say, I cannot believe I hadn’t heard of this author before she approached me to review her books. I must have been hiding under a rock because V is for Virgin is the perfect example of good contemporary romance books for teens!

Val Jensen is a teenage girl who’s always known she was adopted from a young age. Not wanting to follow in her birth mother’s footsteps – having a baby while being a teenage, Val made the big decision not...more V is for Virgin was my first book by author Kelly Oram and I have to say, I cannot believe I hadn’t heard of this author before she approached me to review her books. I must have been hiding under a rock because V is for Virgin is the perfect example of good contemporary romance books for teens!

Val Jensen is a teenage girl who’s always known she was adopted from a young age. Not wanting to follow in her birth mother’s footsteps – having a baby while being a teenage, Val made the big decision not to have sex until she was in love and married. However, she hasn’t told her boyfriend her plans, so when she does, he blows up and dumps her. The problem is, when her break up goes viral on YouTube, Val is suddenly given the name “Virgin Val” and she’s soon she's in the spotlight and even gets the attention of the leader singer of Tralse; Kyle Hamilton. How is Val ever supposed to stay true to herself and the nation, when the hottest guy in the world keeps fighting for her attention?

I’m not really sure what I was expecting when I started reading this book - a light fluffy read, but I have to say I was really surprised by the outcome because V is for Virgin is definitely more complex than it appears. With the storyline surrounding Val – who wants to remain a virgin until she gets married, it really does send out a great message to the younger readers. How many women do you know that wished they’d waited to have sex or wished it had been more than what they had experienced? Well, I guess we all know someone who wishes it and this book really is an eye opener to that. Yes, it can be beautiful but if your young and you have your whole life ahead of you, what’s the rush. Let it mean something. Don’t rush out and do it because all your friends are or because your boyfriend is pressuring you, do it because you want to and when your ready. V is for Virgin really does send out the right message to teens that are pressured into having sex and I definitely think there should be more books like this.

My favourite part of this book was Val herself. I loved her attitude - she's a happy go lucky girl who doesn't let anything get her down. She remains strong and true to herself and it shows how much courage she has. And then of course, Kyle...typical bad boy Kyle. Even thought his hard times, he's still a swoon-worthy character. I loved the banter between Kyle and Val and here's the perfect example;

" Virgin Val?" Suddenly I missed being called Legs. It was Kyle who'd said it. I ignored him and looked at the girl.
"How did you.....?"
"You're a virgin?" Again, Kyle.
"You say that like it's a bad thing," I couldn't help but snap.
"I'd be more than happy to help you fix that problem.
"I'll bet you would."

My only 'complaint' with the story was I wish there had been a little more to the ending. I finished it and I was left will with, well did they or didn't they? I had to go back and re-read it and I did get it eventually, but I guess I would have liked a little more closure. Other than that V is for Virgin is a fun, loving read - one that deals with real situations and I can't wait to read Kelly Oram's other book - Being Jamie Baker soon.

A big thank you to Kelly Oram for giving me the opportunity to review her book.(less)

10 likes · like · see review

Dec 17, 2012 Inna rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: obnoxious-and-hot-male-lead

Review also appears on my blog
As soon as I saw the blurb for this book I wanted it. I mean come on you have a girl who swore to herself to keep her virginity, a hot lead singer who made it his goal to make sure she does just the opposite oh and the fact that the whole country is watching where this is going to go landed this book on my to read list. That's exactly why I was ecstatic when the amazing Kelly Oram provided me with an ARC for review. Thanks so much.
Now on to the actual review. This...more

7 likes · like · see review

Mar 12, 2013 Ambur rated it 5 of 5 stars

V is for Virgin was not only hilarious, but was also a wonderful story about being true to yourself and your own beliefs. I loved that while some aspects of this book were taken rather lightly, Val still managed to voice her beliefs in a way that came off as being mature, yet not preachy...which is always a good thing!

Along with the awesome message that came with V is for Virgin, it was also full of amazing characters!!! Val was fantastic! She was feisty, and always ready to stand up for herself...more V is for Virgin was not only hilarious, but was also a wonderful story about being true to yourself and your own beliefs. I loved that while some aspects of this book were taken rather lightly, Val still managed to voice her beliefs in a way that came off as being mature, yet not preachy...which is always a good thing!

Along with the awesome message that came with V is for Virgin, it was also full of amazing characters!!! Val was fantastic! She was feisty, and always ready to stand up for herself...and Kyle! Oh, Kyle! I loved him. He was definitely a bit of a man-whore at times, but I have to admit that I loved when he started to pursue Val...even if for him it was mostly a game at first. :P I also really enjoyed his sense of humour, and I loved the chemistry between him and Val! :D

The story itself was wonderful. There was an awesome balance between light and fun moments, and the serious side of the story. I also loved the musical aspect, and I especially loved Val's strength. While I would've been totally embarrassed in some of the situations that Val was in, she managed to overcome any embarrassment and became the better for it. It's not often that you meet a character as wonderful as Val, and it's even more rare to meet one worth listening, too. Val is dedicated to staying a virgin until marriage, but her message is more than that. As I've already mentioned, it's about staying true to who you are and what you believe in. For Val that happens to be remaining a virgin until marriage, but it could be also describe anything for anyone person. Her message then becomes so versatile, and it allows each reader to understand why Val is standing up for what she believes in. :)

Overall, I absolutely LOVED V is for Virgin! I thought that the message of being true to yourself was strong, and it was important to share. Too often, people aren't true to themselves and decide to change their views based on peer pressure rather than their actual beliefs, so Val's strength in sticking to her own beliefs was inspiring, and I think it's a message that more people need to see, young girls especially because Val's a great role model to them. :) I would recommend this one to anyone who enjoys young adult contemporaries, especially if you love awesome main characters and some sexy banter. ;)(less)

2 likes · like · see review

Oct 25, 2012 Erin rated it 4 of 5 stars

Overall, V IS FOR VIRGIN should be re-titled as B Is For Brilliance because it was such an awesome book just like Kelly Oram's other previous titles. With some memorable characters, great character one-lines and an overall great message spreading throughout the entire storyline, I think many readers will come to appreciate this book and needless to say be really entertained by it!

Full review: http://talesoftheinnerbookfanatic.blo...

4.5 stars!

2 likes · like · see review

May 20, 2013 Clarissa rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: awesomesauce, won

V is for Virgin by Kelly Oram is by far one of the best books I've read in the last couple of years. Very important issues in a teen's life are discussed and I could relate to the protagonist in more ways than one. The issues addressed are very real and 100% true.

I'm so glad that it did not end on a cheesy note. The book as a whole is funny and sweet and just wholesome goodness!!!

I recommend it to all.....ALL my book friends. I haven't felt this passionate about a book in a really long time bu...more

like · see review

May 06, 2013 Elisha rated it 2 of 5 stars

Not as good as The Avery Shaw Experiment. But this one was good. Until it got too Hollywood.

If something like this happened in real life— girl confessing her virginity, a camera capturing the moment, and the video going viral—the book pretty much almost got everything accurate. Almost.

[Virgin] Val had a pretty good argument. She was solid in her campaign. And then everything else in the story would probably happen if this was in real life. Except maybe the YouTube comments would be more vulgar a...more

like · see review

May 05, 2013 Diana Perez rated it 2 of 5 stars

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. Lo leí en seis horas. Me encanta la forma de escribir.
No sabía si poner 2 o poner 3, era un 2.5 y al final me decidí por el cuatro, no sé por qué.
Ahora si, con spoiler, tengo que desahogarme del final.
Pucha, todo.
Primero, Zach es un idiota que quiero, todo el principio lo odié pero lo que dijo al casi final me rompió en pedacitos, fue hermoso, es un tierno.
Kyle y su tensión sexual con Val. Lo mejor del libro.

Kyle no es tan idiota como te lo plantea el inicio, como siempre en este tipo de perso...more

like · see review

Apr 14, 2013 Rachel (The Rest Is Still Unwritten) rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: i-own, e-book

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

like · see review

Apr 10, 2013 Makii rated it 3 of 5 stars

Ohhh Kyle! De verdad, no merecías enamorarte de Val, porque ella nunca supo entenderte.

Al principio, yo realmente quería golpearlo. Entendía a V y toda su causa, y me encantaba lo que estaba haciendo, pero a medida que la historia avanza no podía ver realmente el fin. "La virgen Val" se trago a la verdadera Valerie, y lo único que importaba era ella. Me molestó como se fue alejando de quienes realmente la querían, y la forma en que juzgaba a Kyle o a personas como Olivia, sencillamente porque no...more

like · see review

Apr 08, 2013 Mandi Ellsworth added it

First off, the title is off putting. It sounds like this book is going to be salacious.

But by the end, I was thinking that every teen should read this book.

Valerie tells her boyfriend of three months that she won't have sex with him, that she's saving herself until marriage, and he dumps her. The next day, everyone in the cafeteria is gossiping about her, and she sees her boyfriend making out with a girl Valerie hates. So, Valerie stands on a table in front of everyone, and announces that she's...more

like · see review

Apr 07, 2013 Aleeshas2 rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: a-teacher, cute, drama, can-of-worms, fun-enjoyable-read, ha-ha, true-love

4.5 Stars

Reading the title I thought I knew what this book was about. I had the whole story planned out in my mind and thought to myself 'well this will be a quick read, i can skim through...' .Well it turns out yet again I was wrong about something. The story was nothing I thought it would be and it really exceeded my expection. I enjoyed the protagonist Valerie, she was witty , smart and really entertaining to read. I loved her strong willed character which made her more realistic and relate...more

1 like · like · see review

Mar 31, 2013 Sahana D rated it 3 of 5 stars

on virginity:
i was cringing when i was reading the synopsis bc there were so many prejudicial/sexist/misogynistic ways to portray virginity. i was constantly wary reading this book but i more or less liked the way the author handled it. there was one part where val calls another girl a skank for putting the moves on her ex boyfriend and says something like "i hope you enjoy putting out". i didnt like val concentrating her ire on the other woman, and i especially didnt like her putting down a gir...more

like · see review

Mar 26, 2013 Kate McMurry rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: contemporary-romance, ya-comedy, ya-contemporary-romance, ya-love-triangle, young-adult-comedy, young-adult-contemporary-paranormal, young-adult-love-triangle

Utterly delightful YA contemporary romantic comedy

Eighteen-year-old high school senior, Val Jensen, is callously dumped by her handsome, heartless boyfriend when she refuses to have sex with him after dating him for three months. Not only that, her ex smears her reputation by proclaiming to anyone who will listen that he dumped Val, not because she would not have sex with him, but because he did have sex with her, and she was a lousy lay. As if that were not bad enough, he instantly replaces Val...more

like · see review

Mar 11, 2013 Sophie rated it 1 of 5 stars

Shelves: young-adult, trigger-sexual-harassment, trigger-rape-culture, contemporary

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. I didn't have high expectations of this book, but I don't believe that validating abstinence as a sexual choice necessitates sex negativity or slutshaming, so I just wanted so badly for something positive to come out of this book.

Yeah, no.

Valerie, a virgin who apparently equates all sexual activity with the kind her unknown birth mother had - drunken, unprotected, regrettable, with a stranger, resulting in an unwanted baby - has pledged to save sex for marriage. Actually, the development of thi...more I didn't have high expectations of this book, but I don't believe that validating abstinence as a sexual choice necessitates sex negativity or slutshaming, so I just wanted so badly for something positive to come out of this book.

Yeah, no.

Valerie, a virgin who apparently equates all sexual activity with the kind her unknown birth mother had - drunken, unprotected, regrettable, with a stranger, resulting in an unwanted baby - has pledged to save sex for marriage. Actually, the development of this girl's relationship to her own sexuality could have been fascinating, had her character actually developed at all throughout the course of the narrative.

Instead, the main narrative involves the relentless, predatory sexual harrassment if Valerie by a 'charismatic' love interest, Kyle, who embodies male sexual entitlement to such a sickening degree that I literally wanted to throw up. Thankfully, they dont end up together, but his misogyny-disguised-as-lust never adequately reprimanded. Basically, she turns him down (the only rejection he responds to, by the way, because he is literally leaving the city and they don't see each other for four years) because she doesn't trust him, and he doesn't trust himself, not to 'falter' if he were to promise her he'd be abstinent.

That's their reasoning.

Not the fact that he's spent the past year demonstrating he has no respect for the sexual decisions she's made on behalf of HERSELF.

If the oh-he's-sexually-harassing-her-that's-so-romantic story didn't offend enough - the epilogue. Oh, the epilogue. Apart from Valerie's cringeworthy reunion with her birth mother on national television, we have the return of Kyle, who's a learnt a valuable lesson and written a song, "Worth Waiting For." As if his problem was wanting to sleep with her before marrying her, not his inability to respect her choosing what to do with her own body. The epilogue also sees Valerie's three friends Stephanie, Cara and Robin respectively engaged, married and carrying her husband's second child.

Because, obviously, the only valid future for a girl is marriage and motherhood.

Basically, don't bother with V is for Virgin. (less)

6 likes · like · see review

Mar 03, 2013 Sabrina rated it 5 of 5 stars

Me gusto bastante mucho este libro. Creo que trata un tema muy importante en la sociedad y que últimamente es muy menospreciado por esta, y mas en Estados Unidos que es casi como un pecado ser Virgen a los 17 años. Me gusto la narración y todos los problemas por los cuales Valerie paso y a pesar de eso siguió con su idea de esperar hasta el matrimonio, no creo que se le pueda pedir a las personas a no tener sexo antes de casarse, pero me parece genial la idea de que no por el que dirán, o mi nov...more

1 like · like · see review

Feb 24, 2013 Rosalyn rated it 4 of 5 stars

Don't be put off by the title here--this book was actually smart, funny, and cleverly written. Because her biological mother was a teen mom, Val Jensen has decided to remain a virgin until marriage. But when her boyfriend breaks up with her over this decision, Val takes him down in public (in the cafeteria), Val becomes publicly known as "Virgin Val" when the video goes viral. Rather than fight the new label, Val decides to embrace it and launches a line of jewelry ("V" for virgin and "A" for ab...more

like · see review

Feb 23, 2013 Lin-z rated it 3 of 5 stars

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

like · see review

Feb 17, 2013 Vivien rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2013, favorites

AHHmazing! through the story i was so caught up i was not inclined to sleep need be to finished the book. But hell i love it who could i blame? the story is catching from the start and the comeback's is awesome i was proclaimed crazy of the day on our house for laughing hard. The 70% up part though made me want to smack someones head up, really it was so infuriating and who would have guessed "this someone"(view spoiler) would have been the one to drill some sense into Valer...more

1 like · like · see review

Feb 03, 2013 Kelly rated it 4 of 5 stars

Ramblings of a Diva Booknerd

3.5 Stars.
Val is a virgin. Born to a teen mother who gave her up for adoption at the chance of a better life, leaves her with only a letter and a necklace with the letter V. Eighteen year old Val is a popular girl, not so much with the 'in' crowd, but she had her best friend Cara and boyfriend Zach. Zach and Val have been dating for a few months, and have never discussed sex. He clearly assumed that, like most couples, the time would come where they would make the dec...more

like · see review

Jan 25, 2013 Suziq rated it 2 of 5 stars

I am pretty annoyed at this book especially the ending. The author was obviously trying to champion her agenda for virginity/abstinence being a valid life choice for young people but she missed the mark. At the end of the story, when we are reunited with some of the main characters, it is Virgin Val who is the most unfulfilled, Cara is happily married to Shane, the man she gave her virginity to; Robin and Isaac are happily married to their respective partners and soon Stephanie will also join th...more

like · see review

Jan 11, 2013 Hismi rated it 5 of 5 stars

i dont know what to think about this book, but i really enjoyed it! the fact that i finish it only in 5 and half hours say something, i never read a book that fast, LOL i cant stop reading it.
the story just typical but it really has element of surprise that made me keep reading it.
and i love the point on this novel, it's actually not about sex but how to make choices.
and the fight between Val and cara feel real, i imagine it bound to happen with those craziness they face.
and i love how the aut...more

like · see review

Jan 11, 2013 Faye (The Social Potato) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Recommended to Faye (The Social Potato) by: Kurenai

Shelves: young-adult, stand-alone, romance, refreshing, philosophical, good-heroine, finding-oneself, drama, contemporary-fiction, 2012

Can also be read on The Social Potato.

OK, I'll be honest here.

I did not expect to like V is for Virgin at all. Aside from the unbelievable premise (I mean, does modern society today really make fun of you if you haven't had sex at seventeen or eighteen? It's not a big deal where I live... although a sex-minded American society may not be surprising x_x), I thought to myself that in the end, the heroine will probably give it away, anyway, so what's the point?I mean, isn't that how they all end, t...more Can also be read on The Social Potato.

OK, I'll be honest here.

I did not expect to like V is for Virgin at all. Aside from the unbelievable premise (I mean, does modern society today really make fun of you if you haven't had sex at seventeen or eighteen? It's not a big deal where I live... although a sex-minded American society may not be surprising x_x), I thought to myself that in the end, the heroine will probably give it away, anyway, so what's the point?I mean, isn't that how they all end, these romance books? No matter what happens, the destination will be the same - the main character and the love interest will get together, make love somewhere on the way, and happily ever after. Well, cover me flabbergasted 'cause I was downright wrong.

V is for Virgin is not a love story. It is a story of love. No, not a love between two people, although it does touch that here as well. Rather, it's a story of loving yourself. Her love interests? Pssh. They were interesting characters, but they were only a backdrop to something more meaningful, which I'll get to in a bit.

It's not the plot that made me enjoy this book so much because honestly, the general story isn't rocket science. Valerie is a virgin and doesn't want to have sex until she's married and emotionally invested in someone, but unfortunately, it seems that her boyfriend doesn't see it in the same light as she does. He dumps her for this particularly shallow reason, and after a series of unfortunate events, our heroine gets at her wits end and shouts to the world she is a virgin and not ashamed of it. However, this only worsens the situation because not only is she now the laughing stock of the whole school, she's a celebrity on youtube as well, for a video of her announcing her virginity went viral. Not all comments were negative though, and this then inspires Valerie to launch a crusade against the sex-driven mentality - that not everyone is doing it, and you don't have to have sex if you're not ready.

See? Plot-wise, it's very simple, but its simplicity is its beauty, too. It may not be very complex, but it introduces a lot of plausible themes that the youth and adults alike need to ponder on. Is sex really so vital in a relationship that without it, it just cannot work? Are we willing to give away something that is traditionally seen as sacred and precious to someone who we are not even sure we are emotionally attached with? Are we willing to wait and sacrifice a lot for someone simply because we love and care for them? Are we willing to trade away our normal, carefree lives in exchange for becoming a role model for others? Yes, simple questions, but are the answers really that simple as well? It was because of these thoughts, and the unimaginable willpower of the main character to not give in to the temptation and stick to her word that made me like and enjoy this novel so much. Sure, there are a lot of stereotypes and a cliché here and there, but for me, what make this book stand out are the messages it wants to get across to its audience.

The dynamic cast of characters made it really easy for me to appreciate the book as well. They are simply a joy to read - Cara, Robin, Stephanie, Isaac - and even, that jerk but maybe swoon-worthy Kyle. Sure, there were times that I felt a lot of them were being selfish, but they all stood out and were completely distinct from one another. Val, on the other hand, was a better overall character. She's not afraid of speaking out her mind and letting her thoughts show, and despite the tough front, she also is aware that she has weaknesses and insecurities. She felt very real to me, and her journey from being afraid to being proud of who she is made me smile throughout the end.

The ending is a surprise as well. It's not your everyday ending, but I thought it ended nicely and realistically. I don't want to spoil it, though so you'll have to see it for yourself!

Overall, 4 stars out of 5 :)(less)

1 like · like · see review

Jan 10, 2013 Lyra Gill rated it 4 of 5 stars

This review is also posted HERE.

I was hooked from the very first page. V for Virgin had a very strong beginning, and I was alternately cringing, laughing, and moaning in dismay for Val all throughout the first few chapters. From the get go, I loved that Val wasn't afraid to be herself. She knew perfectly well that people would make fun of her desire to remain a virgin before marriage, but she stood strong in her beliefs. She was an amazing character to read and learn about - instead of cowering...more This review is also posted HERE.

I was hooked from the very first page. V for Virgin had a very strong beginning, and I was alternately cringing, laughing, and moaning in dismay for Val all throughout the first few chapters. From the get go, I loved that Val wasn't afraid to be herself. She knew perfectly well that people would make fun of her desire to remain a virgin before marriage, but she stood strong in her beliefs. She was an amazing character to read and learn about - instead of cowering in shame because for being nicknamed 'Virgin Val', Val held her head high and became a role model for those who wanted to remain virgins and those who wanted to practice abstinence alike. I thoroughly enjoyed being part of her journey as she tried to discern the line between being Val, a normal high school student, and Virgin Val, someone to look up to.

The secondary characters made for an interesting read as well. Kyle, who made it his personal mission to sleep with Val, had me both laughing and shaking my head ruefully at his antics. I love that Oram was able to develop Kyle and Val's relationship through many arrays - whether it be fights, thoughtful conversations, TV interviews, and even through songs, it was adamantly obvious that the two mentioned have undeniable chemistry, and that there was indeed something between them from their initial meeting. I do wish that I could have read more scenes between Val and Kyle though!

I also loved how Oram portrayed Val's friendships with Cara, Stephanie and Robin. Her friendship with Cara showed that while it was possible to maintain a strong connection despite pretty much living separate lives, it was vital that the two in question meet halfway. It takes two to tango, after all. Val's friendships with Stephanie and Robin, meanwhile, depicted that stereotypes are usually false, and that one doesn't really know a person unless you actually make it a point to truly get to know him or her. Ultimately, Oram showed that true friends will truly be by your side through thick and thin, and that one shouldn't let go of these people easily.

The second to the last chapter broke my heart. I was practically dryheaving because I could not believe what was happening. While I had a difficult time in reading the chapter, I did understand why Oram felt that it was important that several important changes occur for Val. Val as a character experienced such growth, and I couldn't be prouder of her for standing so strong amidst so much pressure and adversity. The last chapter, meanwhile, had me tearing up... in a good way. I didn't think it was possible for so much to occur in a span of a few pages, but wow, did many things happen, and I was so happy that they did, especially after that heartbreaker of a previous chapter.

All in all, I expected a fluffy read when I picked up V for Virgin, but it was more than that. I did get the romance that I expected, but I picked so many lessons from Val, Kyle, Cara, and the other characters along the way, and I truly thank Oram for writing this gem.
(less)

like · see review

« previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 … 99 100 next »

new topic
Discuss This Book

topics	posts	views	last activity
Čeští a slovenští...: V is for Virgin od Kelly Oram (duben 2013)	27	49	Apr 09, 2013 02:20am

Videos About This Book

Interview with Kelly Oram on the Girls With Glasses Show!

Add a comment

Genres

Young Adult

60 users

Romance

45 users

Contemporary

42 users

Womens Fiction > Chick Lit

14 users

Romance > Contemporary Romance

7 users

Realistic Fiction

6 users

Humor

5 users

Humor > Funny

5 users

Young Adult > High School

5 users

Young Adult > Young Adult Contemporary

5 users

See top shelves...

Readers also enjoyed similar books

Play With Me
by Piper Shelly
The Boys of Summer
by C.J. Duggan
Finding June
by Shannen Crane Camp
The Almost Truth
by Eileen Cook
The Summer I Became a Nerd
by Leah Rae Miller

About Kelly Oram

Kelly Oram wrote her first novel at age fifteen–a fan fiction about her favorite music group, The Backstreet Boys, for which family and friends still tease her. She's obsessed with reading, talks way too much, and loves to eat frosting by the spoonful. She lives outside of Phoenix, Arizona with her husband and four children.

More about Kelly Oram...

Books by Kelly Oram

More…

Share This Book

Facebook Twitter Your website

Trivia About V is for Virgin

No trivia or quizzes yet. Add some now »

Quotes from V is for Virgin

“She’s smokin’ hearts with a burnin’ flame
She’s got a wild side without a name
And when she’s riled it’s a cryin’ shame
Yeah! Yeah! Yeah! I’ve got it bad
Yeah! Yeah! Yeah! I’m going’ mad

Cause in your head you’ve got it right
Won’t go to bed without a fight
You think you’re wise, you think it shows
So show me wise without those clothes

Isaac raised an eyebrow at me, but I couldn’t even shrug. I was frozen. My heart had stopped. Everything had stopped.

She’s playin’ hardball and it’s nothin’ new
Short skirts so enjoy the view
She’s a coldblooded tease baby through and through
Yeah! Yeah! Yeah! I’ve got it bad
Yeah! Yeah! Yeah! I’m goin’ mad

Cause in your head you’ve got it right
Won’t go to bed without a fight
You think you’re wise you think it shows
So show me wise without those clothes

Come on Legs don’t go to waste
I could be your only savin’ grace”

“Put those morals on the back burner
Something tells me you’re a fast fast learner

As I listened to the chorus taunt me over and over again until the song came to a climatic end, I somehow remembered to breathe.” — 23 people liked it

“El Top Ten de Razones Porqué Virgen Val Apesta”
10. Me llamó hombre—de—un—solo—éxito.
9. No aprecia el encantador sobrenombre que le di.
8. Me hace escribir blogs estúpidos sobre ella a las cuatro de la mañana.
7. Alienta a la gente a que no tenga sexo.
6. Me mandó a volar cuando le pedí salir.
5. Está enamorada de un idiota.
4. No responde ninguna de mis llamadas.
3. Le gusta coquetear con esa política de mira—pero—no—toques.
2. Toqué un maldito concierto sólo para ella y ni siquiera vino cuando dijo que lo haría. (¡Eres una mentirosa!)
¿Y la razón #1 de por qué la Virgen Val apesta?
Porque la deseo de todos modos.” — 8 people liked it

More quotes…

title link	preview: V is for Virgin
avg rating	preview: V is for Virgin Goodreads rating: 3.85 (1575 ratings)
small image	preview: click here [close]
med image	preview: click here [close]
BBCode	[url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15703297-v-is-for-virgin?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book][img]http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1345676801l/15703297.jpg[/img][/url] [url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15703297-v-is-for-virgin?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book]V is for Virgin by Kelly Oram[/url]

V is for Virgin

Friend Reviews

Community Reviews

Share This Book

Share This Book on Your Website