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What a Boy Wants #2
What a Boy Needs
A companion novel to WHAT A BOY WANTS.
Jaden Sinclair knows he'll never amount to anything...so why would he deserve a girl like Priscilla Mendoza?
Since last summer, things have been screwed up between Jaden and Pris. He knows it's his fault, but that doesn’t stop him from wanting to go a few rounds with her new boyfriend. He also knows he’s the loser his dad calls him, but it doesn’t stop him from wanting her.
After getting a huge bomb dropped on him, Jaden lashes out and lands himself in jail. Everything in his chaotic life is turned upside down and to make it worse, his mom kicks him out in order to side with his dad. Yeah, he’s totally a prize for a girl like Pris.
Sebastian, Aspen, and Pris are all going places in their lives...and he knows he can't keep tagging along for the ride.
The group has one last chance for The Epic Adventure they've been looking a road trip to New York, where Jaden's friends will be going to college. Unfortunately, the more time Jaden hangs around Pris, the harder it is to keep the carefully constructed walls between them so she doesn't find out what a train wreck he really is.
When the trip ends, Jaden has to decide if he's ready to say goodbye to his friends, and the girl he loves. He knows what he needs, but will he be man enough to go for it?
Contains mature themes. Some sexual situations and language.
Jaden Sinclair knows he'll never amount to anything...so why would he deserve a girl like Priscilla Mendoza?
Since last summer, things have been screwed up between Jaden and Pris. He knows it's his fault, but that doesn’t stop him from wanting to go a few rounds with her new boyfriend. He also knows he’s the loser his dad calls him, but it doesn’t stop him from wanting her.
After getting a huge bomb dropped on him, Jaden lashes out and lands himself in jail. Everything in his chaotic life is turned upside down and to make it worse, his mom kicks him out in order to side with his dad. Yeah, he’s totally a prize for a girl like Pris.
Sebastian, Aspen, and Pris are all going places in their lives...and he knows he can't keep tagging along for the ride.
The group has one last chance for The Epic Adventure they've been looking a road trip to New York, where Jaden's friends will be going to college. Unfortunately, the more time Jaden hangs around Pris, the harder it is to keep the carefully constructed walls between them so she doesn't find out what a train wreck he really is.
When the trip ends, Jaden has to decide if he's ready to say goodbye to his friends, and the girl he loves. He knows what he needs, but will he be man enough to go for it?
Contains mature themes. Some sexual situations and language.
124 pages, Nook
First published June 1, 2012
38 people are currently reading
3674 people want to read
About the author
Nyrae Dawn
33 books3,912 followersI am a compulsive reader and writer who loves YA fiction.
I love nothing more than writing about young adults. There is something so fresh and fun about it. You can pretty much always find me with a book in my hand or open document in front of me.
I live in Southern California with my husband and two children.
I love nothing more than writing about young adults. There is something so fresh and fun about it. You can pretty much always find me with a book in my hand or open document in front of me.
I live in Southern California with my husband and two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 362 reviews
June 11, 2012
5 Stars!! You ARE AWESOME Jaden and so is Nyrae Dawn!!
This follow-up book to What A Boy Wants, is a little darker in tone, but just as wonderful and appealing! Heartbreaking and heartwarming, it’s a beautiful journey about self-discovery, self-worth and friendship!
What Jaden needs is to know that he is loved. Oh and he is, by so many people, but not by the two people who should love him unconditionally, the love he craves, the love he NEEDS! Jaden is the unfortunate target of his father’s verbal abuse, the man is just plain old mean, condescending and humiliates Jaden every chance he gets. He is relentless and his mother stands by a does nothing! NOTHING!! I wanted to punch his father in the face and bitch-slap his mother! If not for his best friends Sebastian, Aspen and Pris, I believe he would have lost himself completely.
Pris, the girl he’s loves and his friend for as long as he can remember, barely maintains her friendship with him. He won't allow her into his heart. He’s so damaged from being the victim of verbal cruelty at the hands of his father; he feels he has no self-worth. What Jaden doesn’t know is that Pris’ charmed life is not all that it seems and they are more alike than they are different. Now all four of them are off on the journey of a lifetime as they travel across the United States, and Jaden and Pris try to find their way back to each other.
I’ve always seen her. Always. I've just been trying not to.
I adore these four loveable teens, their wonderful friendship and how they look out for one another. Being back with Sebastian and Aspen was delightful. One year later and these two childhood friends are head-over-heels in love. Nyrae Dawn makes their relationship sweet and believable. I wish I had a Sebastian or Jaden when I was that age. She is in tune to every detail and writes a boy’s point-of-view as good as any I’ve ever read. She’s spot on with the antics and the thoughts of an 18 year old boy, how they view girls, the way they speak and how easily their self-confidence and hearts can be shattered.
” You’re nothing." Mike's words come back, but that can't be true. I can't be nothing if she loves me.”
Not to worry, there is a well-deserved ending for Jaden, it brought tears to my eyes and made my heart feel full. I’m having a hard time letting go of these characters and hope that Nyrae will somehow find a way to continue their story. This reader NEEDS MORE!! I want to see how cool it can be.
I highly recommend this book and What A Boy Wants, but be sure to read them in order, or you'll miss out on the beginning of this awesome journey!
Jaden Sinclair
May 24, 2012
I didn't think it was possible to love Jaden more than I already did, but seriously.....FANTASTIC!!!!!!! I adored What A Boy Wants, but What A Boy Needs blew my mind. Full review to come soon!
My Summary:
The end of senior year is approaching and Jaden Sinclair feels like he's stuck. All of his friends are getting ready to head off to college in New York and Jaden was originally supposed to go, but his college plans didn't work out and he doesn't have the money to last long in New York. Then to make matters worse, he has to watch Pris with her new boyfriend.
After an altercation with his dad, he learns some shocking information. He's arrested for assaulting his dad and as a result his mother kicks him out. Jaden goes to live with Bastian for the remaining school year. Because of this latest event, he really feels like he's just not good enough to stick around his friends and decides not to go to New York.
Bastian, Aspen, and Pris talk him into making the trip East with them for their last big adventure together. Along the way, Pris tries to tear down Jaden's walls. He's always been the jokester, the one to hide his feelings, especially when it comes to Pris. Jaden has wanted Pris for so long, but has never felt good enough for her. As the trip progresses, their feelings for each other surface. He wants to be with her more than anything, but since he plans to leave, holds back. Will Jaden listen to his heart and stay with the girl he loves and the friends he doesn't want to leave behind? Can he finally figure out that he's good enough?
My Take:
I really don't know where to start. When I read What A Boy Wants, I met Jaden. I really liked him in that story, so when I found out he'd have his own story, I was jumping up and down. Literally. I really love these books. I love that they are written in first person from a male perspective. Nyrae captures the male voice perfectly. The tone of this book is completely different than WABW though. Jaden has some serious issues, so even though the humor is still present, it is a heavier story. I laughed, I cried, and I seriously SWOONED.
Let me begin my gush on Jay. I love all of these characters and I've placed them into my life in a particular way. I adore Bastian, he's the cute guy that you love to have as your pal. Aspen is a true loyal friend. Pris, accepts you for who you are and stands by no matter what. Jaden.....he's the guy that I would want as my boyfriend. Yes, it's true I have a slight soft spot for the tortured souls. Seriously though, this guy is special. I was deeply touched watching him go on this journey of realizing that he IS special and that his friends love him, that Pris loves him. Jaden needs people to love him. He had me melting in a puddle of goo throughout the whole story. I really could go on and on and on........about how wonderful he is.
As I said before, even though it is a deeper story, there are so many funny highlights that I feel necessary to point out without giving anything away. As you read this book, keep your eye out for these key moments.
1. Graduation
2. "Do it harder!"
3. Cherry Coke
4. Ice Cream
5. Chicago
Once you read the book, you'll understand why I felt I needed to spotlight those special treats.
Nyrae Dawn has a true gift of capturing the voice of her characters perfectly. She makes you feel like you're part of the family. It is such a pleasure to read her work. I know I read fast, but I got this book Tuesday afternoon of this week and immediately opened it. I had it completed before midnight that same night. That alone should tell you how fantastic this book is. Please go read these books. You won't regret it!
My Summary:
The end of senior year is approaching and Jaden Sinclair feels like he's stuck. All of his friends are getting ready to head off to college in New York and Jaden was originally supposed to go, but his college plans didn't work out and he doesn't have the money to last long in New York. Then to make matters worse, he has to watch Pris with her new boyfriend.
After an altercation with his dad, he learns some shocking information. He's arrested for assaulting his dad and as a result his mother kicks him out. Jaden goes to live with Bastian for the remaining school year. Because of this latest event, he really feels like he's just not good enough to stick around his friends and decides not to go to New York.
Bastian, Aspen, and Pris talk him into making the trip East with them for their last big adventure together. Along the way, Pris tries to tear down Jaden's walls. He's always been the jokester, the one to hide his feelings, especially when it comes to Pris. Jaden has wanted Pris for so long, but has never felt good enough for her. As the trip progresses, their feelings for each other surface. He wants to be with her more than anything, but since he plans to leave, holds back. Will Jaden listen to his heart and stay with the girl he loves and the friends he doesn't want to leave behind? Can he finally figure out that he's good enough?
My Take:
I really don't know where to start. When I read What A Boy Wants, I met Jaden. I really liked him in that story, so when I found out he'd have his own story, I was jumping up and down. Literally. I really love these books. I love that they are written in first person from a male perspective. Nyrae captures the male voice perfectly. The tone of this book is completely different than WABW though. Jaden has some serious issues, so even though the humor is still present, it is a heavier story. I laughed, I cried, and I seriously SWOONED.
Let me begin my gush on Jay. I love all of these characters and I've placed them into my life in a particular way. I adore Bastian, he's the cute guy that you love to have as your pal. Aspen is a true loyal friend. Pris, accepts you for who you are and stands by no matter what. Jaden.....he's the guy that I would want as my boyfriend. Yes, it's true I have a slight soft spot for the tortured souls. Seriously though, this guy is special. I was deeply touched watching him go on this journey of realizing that he IS special and that his friends love him, that Pris loves him. Jaden needs people to love him. He had me melting in a puddle of goo throughout the whole story. I really could go on and on and on........about how wonderful he is.
As I said before, even though it is a deeper story, there are so many funny highlights that I feel necessary to point out without giving anything away. As you read this book, keep your eye out for these key moments.
1. Graduation
2. "Do it harder!"
3. Cherry Coke
4. Ice Cream
5. Chicago
Once you read the book, you'll understand why I felt I needed to spotlight those special treats.
Nyrae Dawn has a true gift of capturing the voice of her characters perfectly. She makes you feel like you're part of the family. It is such a pleasure to read her work. I know I read fast, but I got this book Tuesday afternoon of this week and immediately opened it. I had it completed before midnight that same night. That alone should tell you how fantastic this book is. Please go read these books. You won't regret it!
June 22, 2012
Great! I'm the first reader that added this... but after I finished What a boy Wants, I couldn't help it. I have to read the next book!!!
Nyrae, you have just joined my favorite writers list!!
My Thoughts After reading:
This book was fun and heartwarming. I was mesmerized from the beggining of the book -we know how is it that Nyrae can reflect so easily what a friendship that turnes into love feels like given that she married one of his high school friends- The only thing that I didn't like too much was that it is so short that I feel it ended to soon.
This is one of the best books I have read this year.
Nyrae, you have just joined my favorite writers list!!
My Thoughts After reading:
This book was fun and heartwarming. I was mesmerized from the beggining of the book -we know how is it that Nyrae can reflect so easily what a friendship that turnes into love feels like given that she married one of his high school friends- The only thing that I didn't like too much was that it is so short that I feel it ended to soon.
This is one of the best books I have read this year.
June 12, 2012
OH.... MY...... WORD!!!!!!!!! As i've always said, a true mark of an awesome read is wanting to devour it, in one sitting which i did with this book.... Jaden... wow... he just tugged at my heartstrings... this was such a different vein from its companion novel What A Boy Wants, it was so full of sadness and anger BUT man oh man did i still LOVE it!! And have i said that i am a SUCKER for male POV's? Well... just like What A Boy Wants was all in Sebastian's POV, What a Boy Needs was all in Jaden's POV... *LE SIGH*. CANNOT WAIT to see what's next from Ms. Dawn!
May 24, 2012
This book lived up to everything I wanted it to be.
Another FABULOUS guy POV.
A little deeper than What a Boy Wants, but it was SO fun to see Sebastian in action again.
Some great schmexy scenes.
LOVE the love story, and love what Jaden had to overcome.
Nyrae's awesome at creating some laugh out loud moments, some sweet moments, and some swoon worthy ones as well.
Well done :-D
Another FABULOUS guy POV.
A little deeper than What a Boy Wants, but it was SO fun to see Sebastian in action again.
Some great schmexy scenes.
LOVE the love story, and love what Jaden had to overcome.
Nyrae's awesome at creating some laugh out loud moments, some sweet moments, and some swoon worthy ones as well.
Well done :-D
June 16, 2012
Can't wait!!! Gonna read this as soon as it's available (hopefully sooner rather then later). Which means I'm going to drop EVERYTHING for it!!! That's right. Nothings gonna stop me.
June 18, 2012
The summer after HS graduation Jaden and his 3 BFF's take a trip across country to NY where they plan to live and attend college. On this trip he will also take his own private journey on the road to self discovery. On his private journey he will find out who's important to him, what makes a true family, who he loves, who loves him and most of all he will discover that he is worth everything he has always dreamed he could never be or have. He will also get a bonus full of love at the end of his private journey, not just from his friends, but from a special person he may never have realized he has always wanted it from. In the end, he will see that he was always where he was supposed to be and with the people who love him best.
Parts I LOVED:
1. The boys silly pranks
2. The funny comments the boys make
3. The friendship between the 4 friends
4. When Jaden discovers his self & his self worth
5. The very end of the epilogue
What I didn't like:
The use of the P word. (I had to mind block that word).
What pushed the book from a 3.5 to a 4 star rating would be the wonderful surprise I had hoped for at the end of the book that put tears in my eyes. I had hoped for it, but didn't expect it. It made me happy.
Parts I LOVED:
1. The boys silly pranks
2. The funny comments the boys make
3. The friendship between the 4 friends
4. When Jaden discovers his self & his self worth
5. The very end of the epilogue
What I didn't like:
The use of the P word. (I had to mind block that word).
What pushed the book from a 3.5 to a 4 star rating would be the wonderful surprise I had hoped for at the end of the book that put tears in my eyes. I had hoped for it, but didn't expect it. It made me happy.
June 13, 2012
Holly smokes this was a whole new level of AWESOMENESS! <3
I can't write a coherent review right now (you know it always happens when I get emotional over a book;)), but I loved it! Jay's story was beautiful and heartbreaking and powerful and sweet and inspiring and funny at times (I could go on and on here)... I may or may not have cried there at the end and I may or may not be super jealous of these four friends relationship and I may or may not have felt like calling my high school friends in the middle of the night and I may or may not have laughed out loud a few times because Bastian and Jay have the best lines and... Ok, I'll shut up for now. I need to recover or something.
Anywaaaays, great book!<3 4.5 stars
P.S. Valerie, I owe you one for 'introducing' me to Bastian and Jay and their stories! I'm totally joining the fan club!;)
I can't write a coherent review right now (you know it always happens when I get emotional over a book;)), but I loved it! Jay's story was beautiful and heartbreaking and powerful and sweet and inspiring and funny at times (I could go on and on here)... I may or may not have cried there at the end and I may or may not be super jealous of these four friends relationship and I may or may not have felt like calling my high school friends in the middle of the night and I may or may not have laughed out loud a few times because Bastian and Jay have the best lines and... Ok, I'll shut up for now. I need to recover or something.
Anywaaaays, great book!<3 4.5 stars
P.S. Valerie, I owe you one for 'introducing' me to Bastian and Jay and their stories! I'm totally joining the fan club!;)
July 22, 2012
I think I liked Jaden's story more than Sebastian's, but I loved both of them anyway xD
What really grabbed at me was Jaden's struggle of always thinking that he wasn't worth anything and his friends being there with him even when Jaden didn't think he wanted it. Their unyielding support was amazing, especially Pris's. She was kick-ass, she knew what she wanted and even though her parents gave her crap, she made a life of her own and knew who she wanted to be. Jaden had more to go through but he was finally able to overcome it and realize that he was someone not only worthy of love but of the amazing friends he had, and that he could be whoever he wanted. And he did it. Worked for it and made himself what he wanted to be.
Excellent book! :)
What really grabbed at me was Jaden's struggle of always thinking that he wasn't worth anything and his friends being there with him even when Jaden didn't think he wanted it. Their unyielding support was amazing, especially Pris's. She was kick-ass, she knew what she wanted and even though her parents gave her crap, she made a life of her own and knew who she wanted to be. Jaden had more to go through but he was finally able to overcome it and realize that he was someone not only worthy of love but of the amazing friends he had, and that he could be whoever he wanted. And he did it. Worked for it and made himself what he wanted to be.
Excellent book! :)
June 13, 2012
OOOOOOH Jaden!! <3
***
OMG!!! YES!! Can't wait to find out more :DDD
***
OMG!!! YES!! Can't wait to find out more :DDD
July 6, 2020
Loved Jaden's story! So good- the dynamic of the foursome is great! I liked this ome better than the first... didnt want it to end.
June 13, 2012
This review and others can also be found at The Nifty Novels Blog!
Another sweet book by Nyrae Dawn. I just have to say right off the bat -- Nyrae can sure nail the teenage boy voice with her narrators. In What a Boy Needs Jaden gets to be the star as the first person narrator of the story, and he is a fun person to get to know in this story. And by fun I guess I really mean fascinating. Jaden is a boy who is the product of a completely sucky home environment. Is he abused? Not physically. But the mental abuse thrown at him daily by his "father" is horrific. No child (even if he is now an 18 year old child) should have to endure the words thrown at him by this man. Jaden is constantly told that he is worthless and unwanted, and after years of hearing this over and over again Jaden is pretty sure that this is true.
Jaden is fascinating to me because he has this crazy mix of over-the-top cockiness and surety mixed with a severe lack of self esteem. This boy who can walk into a room like he owns the place, do outrageous things, and constantly make comments about his own awesomeness is secretly battling feelings of insecurity. He doesn't feel as if he is good enough for even his own friends who have been rocks to him his entire life. Chalk that up to the man Jaden believed was his father. He tells Jaden that he is only a mooch and a burden to his friends, and Jaden believes him. Why is it that we are so quick to believe the people who care least about us in this world and not listen to the people who love us most? I think that the issues brought up with Jaden's life in this book are issues that young people face all the time in this world. And that's why I enjoyed seeing how Jaden was going to work through all of this. Jaden hides his insecurity through his cocky attitude with others, but his friends are able to see the vulnerable parts of him. However, Jaden won't let them in to really see how hurt and ashamed he is. He doesn't want them to know -- even though they already do. Nyrae does an amazing job of painting the two parts of Jaden's personality, the public and the private sides. I loved that about this book.
This book is not just about Jaden. It is about his relationship with Priscilla as well. Priscilla seems to have a life that is a polar opposite of his. Her parents are wealthy and successful, and they give her whatever she wants. That is how it appears to Jaden at least. In reality Priscilla's parents mask their neglect with displays meant for others, not for Priscilla, so she feels almost as unwanted and unloved as Jaden does. But neither of them can realize this until one of them opens up to the other. So much of this book was about Jaden hiding his true feelings, in the process creating a rift in his friendship with Pris that gets deeper and deeper. She likes him -- a lot, and he likes her -- a lot. But Jaden will not allow himself to form any sort of romantic attachment to her because he believes that she is too good for him. As he tries to push her away for her own good he ends up hurting her over and over. Seeing the two of them work through the issues of communication that come because of Jaden's insecurity was a great part of this book.
What I absolutely loved the most -- Jaden's internal thoughts as he tried to figure out Priscilla. I have five brothers, so I am very familiar with how boys work, and I have to say, this portrayal of Jaden and his confusion about all things girly was spot on. I could see any one of my brothers thinking the exact same things. Why do girls do the things they do when dealing with boys? It makes sense to girls, but it is a mystery to boys. I could read about Priscilla's actions and know exactly why she was doing what she was doing, but Jaden was at a total loss. Sometimes when I'm reading a book this can be frustrating to read because it drives me crazy when the two love interests in a book don't communicate. But in this case it was done perfectly. Sometimes it was absolutely hilarious to see Jaden try to figure things out. Other times it could be touching as I saw Jaden's eyes really opening and seeing just who Priscilla was and what she meant to him. Some of my favorite scenes were those when Jaden pushed aside all of his overthinking and allowed himself to just be there for Pris and comfort her and talk to her. Loved those scenes!
I do have one small complaint (and it's small), but I felt as if the ending of the book was rushed a bit. Things played out wonderfully for everyone, so I loved that. But I really wanted to hear more about things with Jaden's family and Priscilla's family. I don't think that this story deserved tons of extra time -- I mean, the two families really were atrocious in their own special way. But I just felt like I wanted more closure with everything. I would have especially loved to read more about Jaden's introduction to his real father. But, like I say, it was a small complaint, and I still really enjoyed the story without any expansion.
So overall I really enjoyed this second book about this group of four friends as they head off into their futures. It is a story of the power of friendship and love to overcome the junk thrown at us in life. And it is an amazing story of getting inside the head of a troubled boy and watching him find exactly what he needs. Four stars!
Another sweet book by Nyrae Dawn. I just have to say right off the bat -- Nyrae can sure nail the teenage boy voice with her narrators. In What a Boy Needs Jaden gets to be the star as the first person narrator of the story, and he is a fun person to get to know in this story. And by fun I guess I really mean fascinating. Jaden is a boy who is the product of a completely sucky home environment. Is he abused? Not physically. But the mental abuse thrown at him daily by his "father" is horrific. No child (even if he is now an 18 year old child) should have to endure the words thrown at him by this man. Jaden is constantly told that he is worthless and unwanted, and after years of hearing this over and over again Jaden is pretty sure that this is true.
Jaden is fascinating to me because he has this crazy mix of over-the-top cockiness and surety mixed with a severe lack of self esteem. This boy who can walk into a room like he owns the place, do outrageous things, and constantly make comments about his own awesomeness is secretly battling feelings of insecurity. He doesn't feel as if he is good enough for even his own friends who have been rocks to him his entire life. Chalk that up to the man Jaden believed was his father. He tells Jaden that he is only a mooch and a burden to his friends, and Jaden believes him. Why is it that we are so quick to believe the people who care least about us in this world and not listen to the people who love us most? I think that the issues brought up with Jaden's life in this book are issues that young people face all the time in this world. And that's why I enjoyed seeing how Jaden was going to work through all of this. Jaden hides his insecurity through his cocky attitude with others, but his friends are able to see the vulnerable parts of him. However, Jaden won't let them in to really see how hurt and ashamed he is. He doesn't want them to know -- even though they already do. Nyrae does an amazing job of painting the two parts of Jaden's personality, the public and the private sides. I loved that about this book.
This book is not just about Jaden. It is about his relationship with Priscilla as well. Priscilla seems to have a life that is a polar opposite of his. Her parents are wealthy and successful, and they give her whatever she wants. That is how it appears to Jaden at least. In reality Priscilla's parents mask their neglect with displays meant for others, not for Priscilla, so she feels almost as unwanted and unloved as Jaden does. But neither of them can realize this until one of them opens up to the other. So much of this book was about Jaden hiding his true feelings, in the process creating a rift in his friendship with Pris that gets deeper and deeper. She likes him -- a lot, and he likes her -- a lot. But Jaden will not allow himself to form any sort of romantic attachment to her because he believes that she is too good for him. As he tries to push her away for her own good he ends up hurting her over and over. Seeing the two of them work through the issues of communication that come because of Jaden's insecurity was a great part of this book.
What I absolutely loved the most -- Jaden's internal thoughts as he tried to figure out Priscilla. I have five brothers, so I am very familiar with how boys work, and I have to say, this portrayal of Jaden and his confusion about all things girly was spot on. I could see any one of my brothers thinking the exact same things. Why do girls do the things they do when dealing with boys? It makes sense to girls, but it is a mystery to boys. I could read about Priscilla's actions and know exactly why she was doing what she was doing, but Jaden was at a total loss. Sometimes when I'm reading a book this can be frustrating to read because it drives me crazy when the two love interests in a book don't communicate. But in this case it was done perfectly. Sometimes it was absolutely hilarious to see Jaden try to figure things out. Other times it could be touching as I saw Jaden's eyes really opening and seeing just who Priscilla was and what she meant to him. Some of my favorite scenes were those when Jaden pushed aside all of his overthinking and allowed himself to just be there for Pris and comfort her and talk to her. Loved those scenes!
I do have one small complaint (and it's small), but I felt as if the ending of the book was rushed a bit. Things played out wonderfully for everyone, so I loved that. But I really wanted to hear more about things with Jaden's family and Priscilla's family. I don't think that this story deserved tons of extra time -- I mean, the two families really were atrocious in their own special way. But I just felt like I wanted more closure with everything. I would have especially loved to read more about Jaden's introduction to his real father. But, like I say, it was a small complaint, and I still really enjoyed the story without any expansion.
So overall I really enjoyed this second book about this group of four friends as they head off into their futures. It is a story of the power of friendship and love to overcome the junk thrown at us in life. And it is an amazing story of getting inside the head of a troubled boy and watching him find exactly what he needs. Four stars!
June 18, 2012
What A Boy Needs is the companion book to What A Boy Wants, the first one followed Sebastian and this time it's his friend Jaden's turn to tell his story.
OMG! I loved this book! It made me cry, laugh, cry some more, and then end up in a really happy place!
I really liked Sebastian in What A Boy Wants but I loved Jaden more in What A Boy Needs! There were so many times during this book where I just wanted to reach in and give him a huuuuge hug.
The story starts with Jaden having to deal with Pris, the girl he loves but has never told, having a new boyfriend and it hurts like hell.
"It should be me sitting with Priscilla right now. My hand in her hair. My lips on her neck. I should be stealing food off her lunch plate ... I want to be with her ... I want her way more than I should, but I also realise it's a no go. She deserves way better."
He's then on the receiving end of a massive bombshell of news. Like life altering news. A brief spell in jail, after assaulting his mean, verbally abusive father, and a broken hand later and Jaden's a mess of self-doubting, insecurity and vulnerability, as well as homeless.
After hearing time and time again from his dad that he's a loser who's worthless Jaden believes that to be true.
"You're not worth it. You're not worth anything." His words hit home everything I already know ... It's not like he's telling me anything I haven't known forever.
My heart ached for Jaden and I hated his parents. His dad for verbally abusing him and treating him the way he did, and his mum for just letting it happen without a word to his dad to stop and to see that it wasn't right. Obviously Mr Sinclair's controlling ways had had an effect on her too, I can see that, but no matter what, if I was treated the same way she was I would NEVER let that happen to one of my children, just soo hard to understand how she didn't see who her loyalty was with.
Then along comes the road-trip he's been planning for ages with his 3 best friends, Sebastian, Aspen and Pris. They drive across the country to get to New York and it's one hell of a journey of self discovery for Jaden.
He shuts his friends out so that he can protect them for his worthless self. He cuts off and doesn't share anything that he's going through, which only makes his strained situation with Pris worse... until... he start's to open up to her, and when he does there's no stopping him!
You'll have to read what happens from there as I hate giving the ending away in reviews, really kills it for someone who's yet to read the book. All I will say is I highly recommend you read this book, I loved it and had to force myself to stop reading to go to sleep the evening I started it!
Nyrae Dawn has done a fantastic job at writing from Jaden's POV. You'd never guess it was a woman writing a boy character, and that to me shows how good she really is. I'm really looking forward to her future work, hopefully it will be soon!
Ps... She's also REALLY nice on twitter too so you should follow her here --> @NyraeDawn
OMG! I loved this book! It made me cry, laugh, cry some more, and then end up in a really happy place!
I really liked Sebastian in What A Boy Wants but I loved Jaden more in What A Boy Needs! There were so many times during this book where I just wanted to reach in and give him a huuuuge hug.
The story starts with Jaden having to deal with Pris, the girl he loves but has never told, having a new boyfriend and it hurts like hell.
"It should be me sitting with Priscilla right now. My hand in her hair. My lips on her neck. I should be stealing food off her lunch plate ... I want to be with her ... I want her way more than I should, but I also realise it's a no go. She deserves way better."
He's then on the receiving end of a massive bombshell of news. Like life altering news. A brief spell in jail, after assaulting his mean, verbally abusive father, and a broken hand later and Jaden's a mess of self-doubting, insecurity and vulnerability, as well as homeless.
After hearing time and time again from his dad that he's a loser who's worthless Jaden believes that to be true.
"You're not worth it. You're not worth anything." His words hit home everything I already know ... It's not like he's telling me anything I haven't known forever.
My heart ached for Jaden and I hated his parents. His dad for verbally abusing him and treating him the way he did, and his mum for just letting it happen without a word to his dad to stop and to see that it wasn't right. Obviously Mr Sinclair's controlling ways had had an effect on her too, I can see that, but no matter what, if I was treated the same way she was I would NEVER let that happen to one of my children, just soo hard to understand how she didn't see who her loyalty was with.
Then along comes the road-trip he's been planning for ages with his 3 best friends, Sebastian, Aspen and Pris. They drive across the country to get to New York and it's one hell of a journey of self discovery for Jaden.
He shuts his friends out so that he can protect them for his worthless self. He cuts off and doesn't share anything that he's going through, which only makes his strained situation with Pris worse... until... he start's to open up to her, and when he does there's no stopping him!
You'll have to read what happens from there as I hate giving the ending away in reviews, really kills it for someone who's yet to read the book. All I will say is I highly recommend you read this book, I loved it and had to force myself to stop reading to go to sleep the evening I started it!
Nyrae Dawn has done a fantastic job at writing from Jaden's POV. You'd never guess it was a woman writing a boy character, and that to me shows how good she really is. I'm really looking forward to her future work, hopefully it will be soon!
Ps... She's also REALLY nice on twitter too so you should follow her here --> @NyraeDawn
October 21, 2012
Just as cute as the first one. I'm not sure if I preferred Sebastian or Jay as a narrator. But this one is a lot more serious than the first one, since Jay's parents are basically terrible people.
The romance was also on the steamier side, which I suppose fit with the more serious tone. What A Boy Wants was essentially clean, besides language, but this book isn't. (Just a note there for any readers who are concerned with content.)
Overall, I'm just really impressed with Nyrae Dawn, and I'm not sure how she pulls off a boy first person narrative so well. She's definitely in her element here, and I can't wait to read more books by her!
I'm also really excited that she's got a book coming out from Entangled in 2013 that she co-authored with someone else. So glad to see a great indie getting more exposure!!
The romance was also on the steamier side, which I suppose fit with the more serious tone. What A Boy Wants was essentially clean, besides language, but this book isn't. (Just a note there for any readers who are concerned with content.)
Overall, I'm just really impressed with Nyrae Dawn, and I'm not sure how she pulls off a boy first person narrative so well. She's definitely in her element here, and I can't wait to read more books by her!
I'm also really excited that she's got a book coming out from Entangled in 2013 that she co-authored with someone else. So glad to see a great indie getting more exposure!!
July 19, 2012
Omg! I fell in love with Sabastian in WABW but I was always curious about Jaden. Nyrae Dawn is so amazing and I absolutely adore her! Jaden is the type of person to hold his troubles in and fell in love with someone who he thought was to good for him, but he just needed to realize how amazing he truly is!
Faced with a father figure who belittled him, a mother who wasn't there in the way he needed her to be left Jaden unsure of himself. Through the friendship he shares with Bastian, Aspen, and Pris he realizes he's always had the family he needed.
Through Jadens journey on discovering himself, I cried and fell in love with him. A person so mysterious and so beautiful took my breath away.
This book was awe inspiring and will definetly not disappoint you!
Faced with a father figure who belittled him, a mother who wasn't there in the way he needed her to be left Jaden unsure of himself. Through the friendship he shares with Bastian, Aspen, and Pris he realizes he's always had the family he needed.
Through Jadens journey on discovering himself, I cried and fell in love with him. A person so mysterious and so beautiful took my breath away.
This book was awe inspiring and will definetly not disappoint you!
January 1, 2014
Oh Jaden, My poor poor Jaden.
Though I am not a teenage boy I imagine that Nyrae Dawn has hit the nail on the head. Both this & What a Boy Wants seem very authentic.
Where "Wants" was a bit lighter & I laughed out loud at Bastian's antic's this one just about broke my heart. Jaden has an awful time of it at home & I was soooooooo angry with his mum.
But him Pris where so perfect together and I loved getting more Bastian & Aspen in the background.
For anyone who enjoys a good angsty YA then this should be right up your alley. I would also say that this is definitely the older end of YA. I look forward to whatever this author writes next :)
Though I am not a teenage boy I imagine that Nyrae Dawn has hit the nail on the head. Both this & What a Boy Wants seem very authentic.
Where "Wants" was a bit lighter & I laughed out loud at Bastian's antic's this one just about broke my heart. Jaden has an awful time of it at home & I was soooooooo angry with his mum.
But him Pris where so perfect together and I loved getting more Bastian & Aspen in the background.
For anyone who enjoys a good angsty YA then this should be right up your alley. I would also say that this is definitely the older end of YA. I look forward to whatever this author writes next :)
July 1, 2012
I was curious but anxious to read about what was going on in Jaden's life. His story broke my heart and I just wanted to hug him the entire time. I'm so happy that he realized he was worth it in the end and the epilogue just warmed my heart. Just like in What A Boy Wants, what I love so much about this book was the amazing bond between the four friends. So strong and true and unbreakable. Love it. Congrats to Nyrae Dawn for writing another amazing story. Hope to see more with these characters!
May 22, 2012
A bit deeper than What a Boy Wants, but just as fun. I *think* I love Jaden more than Sebastian. Maybe. Full review once it's released. :)
May 9, 2020
I wouldn't say I loved this book as much as the first, I really loved Jaden's charactor but his story line kinda fell flat for me. I felt the ending was rushed and the book shouuld have been longer.
June 22, 2012
I really liked Want a Boy Wants, but I loved What a Boy Needs! At times Jaden's story was so heart breaking, he never had it easy. I'm glad he got to tell his story and got his HEA.
June 27, 2012
It’s no secret how much I absolutely LOVED What a Boy Wants by Nyrae Dawn. (Click HERE to read my review). It was one of the very few all male POV book I had read and I was hooked on Sebastian from the very first page. Although the main story was about Sebastian and Aspen getting together, it also featured a beautiful and hilarious friendship between Sebastian, Jaden, Aspen and Pris. I loved every aspect of their friendship, from their PPP (Pre-Party Plan) to the boys strong urge to take care and defend Aspen and Pris. What a Boy Wants was such a perfect book to me and when and I heard there would be a companion book about Jaden, who was very guarded and kept his family life a secret, I was counting down the days until it’s release.
Ever since finding out that Pris has feeling for him and their almost non-kiss last year, things have been awkward between them. Sure they’ve always argued and fought but it was always playful. Now, they can’t seem to get along over anything and even worse, Pris has a boyfriend. Although Jaden clearly has strong feeling for Pris, he knows he shouldn’t be with her because he thinks he will never be good enough for her. Something his dear-old dad has been drilling in his head for the past 18 years. Pris end up dumping the douche boyfriend but it doesn’t change things between them. In fact, they seem to get a little worse.
The four of them have always planned to move to New York after graduating and go to school there. Sebastian and Jaden are supposed to live together and Aspen and Pris are getting their own place too. But Jaden doesn’t get any of the scholarships he applied for and his father keeps telling him his friends will get tired of him mooching off of them. He decides to bail on the plan to move to New York and plans to live with his uncle in Texas instead. His friends are crushed but they manage to convince him to take a trip with them to New York before he leaves. Can you say road trip? Things are a little rocky at first, especially with Jaden and Pris but call a truce and try to get back to being friends. But Sebastian and Aspen have other plans…
Jaden was always a mystery in WABW and he still has a hard time opening up to people, even his best friends. Sebastian surprised me with how grown up and serious he became without losing his playful side. The relationship between them was so sweet and funny and I couldn’t help but awww-ing over some of their conversations. And yes I am talking about Jaden and Sebastian. They have one of the best bromances/friendships out there! Now on to Pris and Jaden: the tension and chemistry between them was so hot that I just knew when they would finally get together that it would be oh-so-good! Priscilla is the perfect match for Jaden since they both have the same kind of family issues.
What a Boy Wants was a very sweet and light story. What a Boy Needs was deeper without losing any of the humor from the first book. Nyrae Dawn has spoiled me and now I want to read every book from a male POV. Although it’s 164 pages, it doesn’t seemed rushed at all. It was everything I look for in a book: funny, great romance, awesome characters, and I could devour it in just a couple of hours. If you loved What a Boy Wants, this book will not disappoint at all! If you haven’t read it yet then please do so, I (and a bunch of other people) highly recommend it!
5 out of 5 very sparkly stars!
Some of my favorite non-spoiler quotes from What a Boy Needs:
-But there’s the other part, the one that hides deep inside of me so I can pretend it doesn’t exist, that knows it should be me sitting with Priscilla right now. My hand on her hair. My lips on her neck.
-“We’re not going anywhere without you. You’re my BFF.” He cracks a smile and I can’t help but do the same. Last summer I teased him about Aspen being his BFF and now he uses the saying all the time.
Even though I don’t feel it, I try to return his lightness. “Whatever. Just don’t expect me to paint your nails.”
-“Don’t get all soft on me, Bastian. At least you won’t have to worry about having a guy who’s better looking than you around.”
“First of all, you’re nuts. I’m way hotter than you. And second, I’m being serious man. We’re like, Batman and Robin. Scooby and Shaggy. Actually, none of those duos have shit on us. We’re Sebastian and Jaden.”
-“Come get a soda and some ice with me.”
“Aww, the next thing you know they’ll be going tp the bathroom together too!” Priscilla yells.
-Priscilla’s hand slides through my hair and her lips move against mine and all I can think is more.
More of everything.
-“Didn’t we make a no nudity rule at the beginning of this? If not, we should have. I don’t want to see Sebastian’s white butt.”
“Hey! I have a nice ass! Don’t I baby?” Sebastian whines. Aspen rolls her eyes.
“Dude, you’re the only guy I know who would say that.”
-All of a sudden, the shocked look on his face starts to morph into something different. He’s serious when he looks at me and says, “If you leave now, you’re going to break her heart, Jay. I love you, man, and you’re like my brother, but I’ll kick your ass if you hurt her.”
--I still can't get my head and my heart on the same wavelength. After everything I've been through they’re still not in sync and I wonder if they’ll ever be. If I’ll ever be.
-He’s a nutcase. Obnoxious. Loud. But he’s my best friend. A kick ass friend, who I’m honored to have and who probably thinks the same thing of me. Especially the obnoxious part.
-“I hope this doesn’t mean we plan on hugging all the time, Jay. I mean, you’re my boy but…”
“You’re so stupid.” I shake my head. “You’re my boy too, but you’re definitely not pretty enough to keep hugging.”
But none of us let go right away.
***
Read more of my reviews and Author Interviews at:
www.MostlyYABookObsessed.com
Ever since finding out that Pris has feeling for him and their almost non-kiss last year, things have been awkward between them. Sure they’ve always argued and fought but it was always playful. Now, they can’t seem to get along over anything and even worse, Pris has a boyfriend. Although Jaden clearly has strong feeling for Pris, he knows he shouldn’t be with her because he thinks he will never be good enough for her. Something his dear-old dad has been drilling in his head for the past 18 years. Pris end up dumping the douche boyfriend but it doesn’t change things between them. In fact, they seem to get a little worse.
The four of them have always planned to move to New York after graduating and go to school there. Sebastian and Jaden are supposed to live together and Aspen and Pris are getting their own place too. But Jaden doesn’t get any of the scholarships he applied for and his father keeps telling him his friends will get tired of him mooching off of them. He decides to bail on the plan to move to New York and plans to live with his uncle in Texas instead. His friends are crushed but they manage to convince him to take a trip with them to New York before he leaves. Can you say road trip? Things are a little rocky at first, especially with Jaden and Pris but call a truce and try to get back to being friends. But Sebastian and Aspen have other plans…
Jaden was always a mystery in WABW and he still has a hard time opening up to people, even his best friends. Sebastian surprised me with how grown up and serious he became without losing his playful side. The relationship between them was so sweet and funny and I couldn’t help but awww-ing over some of their conversations. And yes I am talking about Jaden and Sebastian. They have one of the best bromances/friendships out there! Now on to Pris and Jaden: the tension and chemistry between them was so hot that I just knew when they would finally get together that it would be oh-so-good! Priscilla is the perfect match for Jaden since they both have the same kind of family issues.
What a Boy Wants was a very sweet and light story. What a Boy Needs was deeper without losing any of the humor from the first book. Nyrae Dawn has spoiled me and now I want to read every book from a male POV. Although it’s 164 pages, it doesn’t seemed rushed at all. It was everything I look for in a book: funny, great romance, awesome characters, and I could devour it in just a couple of hours. If you loved What a Boy Wants, this book will not disappoint at all! If you haven’t read it yet then please do so, I (and a bunch of other people) highly recommend it!
5 out of 5 very sparkly stars!
Some of my favorite non-spoiler quotes from What a Boy Needs:
-But there’s the other part, the one that hides deep inside of me so I can pretend it doesn’t exist, that knows it should be me sitting with Priscilla right now. My hand on her hair. My lips on her neck.
-“We’re not going anywhere without you. You’re my BFF.” He cracks a smile and I can’t help but do the same. Last summer I teased him about Aspen being his BFF and now he uses the saying all the time.
Even though I don’t feel it, I try to return his lightness. “Whatever. Just don’t expect me to paint your nails.”
-“Don’t get all soft on me, Bastian. At least you won’t have to worry about having a guy who’s better looking than you around.”
“First of all, you’re nuts. I’m way hotter than you. And second, I’m being serious man. We’re like, Batman and Robin. Scooby and Shaggy. Actually, none of those duos have shit on us. We’re Sebastian and Jaden.”
-“Come get a soda and some ice with me.”
“Aww, the next thing you know they’ll be going tp the bathroom together too!” Priscilla yells.
-Priscilla’s hand slides through my hair and her lips move against mine and all I can think is more.
More of everything.
-“Didn’t we make a no nudity rule at the beginning of this? If not, we should have. I don’t want to see Sebastian’s white butt.”
“Hey! I have a nice ass! Don’t I baby?” Sebastian whines. Aspen rolls her eyes.
“Dude, you’re the only guy I know who would say that.”
-All of a sudden, the shocked look on his face starts to morph into something different. He’s serious when he looks at me and says, “If you leave now, you’re going to break her heart, Jay. I love you, man, and you’re like my brother, but I’ll kick your ass if you hurt her.”
--I still can't get my head and my heart on the same wavelength. After everything I've been through they’re still not in sync and I wonder if they’ll ever be. If I’ll ever be.
-He’s a nutcase. Obnoxious. Loud. But he’s my best friend. A kick ass friend, who I’m honored to have and who probably thinks the same thing of me. Especially the obnoxious part.
-“I hope this doesn’t mean we plan on hugging all the time, Jay. I mean, you’re my boy but…”
“You’re so stupid.” I shake my head. “You’re my boy too, but you’re definitely not pretty enough to keep hugging.”
But none of us let go right away.
***
Read more of my reviews and Author Interviews at:
www.MostlyYABookObsessed.com
July 10, 2012
What A Boy Needs by Nyrae Dawn was simply stunning. I didn’t think I could love this book more than I did with What A Boy Wants. I didn’t think my heart was big enough to fit in Jaden since it had already been claimed by Bastian, but I was so wrong. Somehow, Nyrae Dawn was able to allow me to open my heart for Jaden, to love him in and out all the way. Diving back into this story with Jaden, Pris, Aspen and Bastian was like a breathing in a breath of fresh air that I have been holding for so long and only these four were able to give me the oxygen I so desperately needed. I didn’t truly realize how much I missed them until I read the first page.
Nyrae Dawn’s writing is exceptional.
I don’t think I’ve ever encountered an author who can write in a male POV so well. Nyrae Dawn just knows boys. Their voice, their actions, their ways, everything. It’s all evident in WABN. PLUS, Nyrae can write one (or maybe two or three) hell of a kissing scene. Her writing is vivid, imaginative, descriptive and all kinds of addicting. I came to know Jaden in What A Boy Wants, but Nyrae brought his character to life in this book. He was alive and more real that I could have ever imagined. I’ve never felt so close to a character before. And with the way Nyrae uses words to create Jaden’s story? Sheer perfection. I was entranced, hypnotized and dazzled beyond belief.
The storyline was brilliantly thought out.
Nyrae Dawn really knows how to tell a story, and tell it well. The pacing was excellent and the the development of the story was realistic and true. WABN really hits home for me. Jaden’s story really tugs at the heart strings and it’s extremely emotional. It was hard to read what happens when Jaden is at home. I couldn’t help but feel anger and resentment towards certain characters. Compared to WABW, the plot of this book is slightly more serious and intense. It deals with issues that will certainly affect any reader.
Jaden is and was and will always be amazing.
I love Jaden, so hard. I adore him and probably worship him to bits. Right from the start Jaden had this powerful voice that hit every part of my soul. He was funny and snarky, and of course, a good guy at heart. I knew he was struggling with his own inner demons in WABW, so I was so glad I was able to get to know him better in WABN. If I thought I loved Bastian so much, I epically loved Jaden more. He was just so deep, so thoughtful, so damn extraordinary in all aspects. I’ve always seen Jaden as cocky and as arrogant as Bastian, but Jaden was also vulnerable, full of emotion. I sensed his fear, felt his pain and brokenness. I also saw his strength and determination, along with his selflessness. He’s definitely got a sweet and soft side with an unforgettable personality to match. It’s not hard to fall in love Jaden at all. You don’t know how much I ached for him in this book and how much I was able to relate to him. I know what it’s like to feel unworthy, To feel like nothing and to feel like you’ll never be good enough. He broke my heart every time he thought this way because Jaden was good enough. He was everything. He was worthy of all things. He could be anyone, anything and I’d still love him. And if I could tell Jaden one thing, I would tell him that he does matter. So much.
Over all, Nyrae Dawn blew me away with What A Boy Needs. She wowed me to the end. She made me smile, she made me laugh, she brought tears to my eyes and she moved me with Jaden’s story. It’s always a little bittersweet because it’s the end, but I’ll never forget it. I’ll never say goodbye to Jaden, Sebastian, Pris and Aspen because for me, they weren’t just characters in a book. They’re my friends.
More Reviews on my blog: Words, Pages, and Books
Nyrae Dawn’s writing is exceptional.
I don’t think I’ve ever encountered an author who can write in a male POV so well. Nyrae Dawn just knows boys. Their voice, their actions, their ways, everything. It’s all evident in WABN. PLUS, Nyrae can write one (or maybe two or three) hell of a kissing scene. Her writing is vivid, imaginative, descriptive and all kinds of addicting. I came to know Jaden in What A Boy Wants, but Nyrae brought his character to life in this book. He was alive and more real that I could have ever imagined. I’ve never felt so close to a character before. And with the way Nyrae uses words to create Jaden’s story? Sheer perfection. I was entranced, hypnotized and dazzled beyond belief.
The storyline was brilliantly thought out.
Nyrae Dawn really knows how to tell a story, and tell it well. The pacing was excellent and the the development of the story was realistic and true. WABN really hits home for me. Jaden’s story really tugs at the heart strings and it’s extremely emotional. It was hard to read what happens when Jaden is at home. I couldn’t help but feel anger and resentment towards certain characters. Compared to WABW, the plot of this book is slightly more serious and intense. It deals with issues that will certainly affect any reader.
Jaden is and was and will always be amazing.
I love Jaden, so hard. I adore him and probably worship him to bits. Right from the start Jaden had this powerful voice that hit every part of my soul. He was funny and snarky, and of course, a good guy at heart. I knew he was struggling with his own inner demons in WABW, so I was so glad I was able to get to know him better in WABN. If I thought I loved Bastian so much, I epically loved Jaden more. He was just so deep, so thoughtful, so damn extraordinary in all aspects. I’ve always seen Jaden as cocky and as arrogant as Bastian, but Jaden was also vulnerable, full of emotion. I sensed his fear, felt his pain and brokenness. I also saw his strength and determination, along with his selflessness. He’s definitely got a sweet and soft side with an unforgettable personality to match. It’s not hard to fall in love Jaden at all. You don’t know how much I ached for him in this book and how much I was able to relate to him. I know what it’s like to feel unworthy, To feel like nothing and to feel like you’ll never be good enough. He broke my heart every time he thought this way because Jaden was good enough. He was everything. He was worthy of all things. He could be anyone, anything and I’d still love him. And if I could tell Jaden one thing, I would tell him that he does matter. So much.
Over all, Nyrae Dawn blew me away with What A Boy Needs. She wowed me to the end. She made me smile, she made me laugh, she brought tears to my eyes and she moved me with Jaden’s story. It’s always a little bittersweet because it’s the end, but I’ll never forget it. I’ll never say goodbye to Jaden, Sebastian, Pris and Aspen because for me, they weren’t just characters in a book. They’re my friends.
More Reviews on my blog: Words, Pages, and Books
June 21, 2012
4.5/5 stars
Nyrae Dawn knows how to write boys, and write boys well. With Bastian, and now with Jaden, I’m so impressed with how she can get inside their heads and make them convincingly all-boy, but also give them a layer of vulnerability and real emotion. Where Bastian is amusing, clueless, and hilariously adorable, there’s a more serious, emotionally scarred, tormented side to Jaden that I just gravitate toward. His home life less than ideal, Jaden has grown up enduring years of heavy emotional abuse, damaging his view of himself and skewing his perception of his relationships with others. There’s more of a seriousness and a gravity to Jaden that you get quick glimpses of in What a Boy Wants, but that are more fully explored in What a Boy Needs. He only shows the world what he wants them to see – including to some degree Bastian, Pris and Aspen – afraid of how they’ll react if they really knew him. Underneath Jaden’s macho bravado is a guy dealing with some pretty heavy baggage and my heart just ached for him as he deals with his various family issues and questions of his own self worth.
With Jaden, Pris, Bastian and Aspen graduating high school, What A Boy Needs picks up their story almost a year later. Things are fantastic between Bastian and Aspen, who are still so cutely in love. Bastian… the boy is completely and happily whipped and it’s adorable. Things between Jaden & Pris, however, are another matter altogether. Jaden’s liked Pris forever. In What A Boy Wants, it’s completely obvious that Jaden has a “thing” for her, but you don’t really find out how much he likes her until you’re in his head in What A Boy Needs. He’s hung up on the idea that a guy like him doesn’t deserve a girl like her, and since their “almost” encounter last summer, things haven’t been the same – their friendship has become strained and uncomfortable. While Bastian and Aspen had their ups and downs, their story is more ultimately more fun; in some ways, their relationship mishaps more funny and lighthearted. Jaden & Pris on the other hand are two stubborn people who’ve been shaped and scarred by their difficult home lives – their survival of their families dysfunction. Their story feels a bit more serious than Bastian & Aspen’s, a bit more grown up, and I love it for that reason.
Never fear, despite the slightly heavier emotional issues Nyrae Dawn deals with in this novel, it still has all the humor and heart of What A Boy Wants. Much chuckling and giggling ensued upon the reading of this book. I love the constant banter between the four friends. I love how they can just be together; how they can laugh and joke, yet also step up to the plate when one of their own is hurting. They’re true friends – in for the good, the bad and the ugly.
Overall, What A Boy Needs is a fantastic and irreverently funny read about the truth of love, the steadfastness of friendship, the freedom of moving forward, and where a boy’s worth truly lies.
Nyrae Dawn knows how to write boys, and write boys well. With Bastian, and now with Jaden, I’m so impressed with how she can get inside their heads and make them convincingly all-boy, but also give them a layer of vulnerability and real emotion. Where Bastian is amusing, clueless, and hilariously adorable, there’s a more serious, emotionally scarred, tormented side to Jaden that I just gravitate toward. His home life less than ideal, Jaden has grown up enduring years of heavy emotional abuse, damaging his view of himself and skewing his perception of his relationships with others. There’s more of a seriousness and a gravity to Jaden that you get quick glimpses of in What a Boy Wants, but that are more fully explored in What a Boy Needs. He only shows the world what he wants them to see – including to some degree Bastian, Pris and Aspen – afraid of how they’ll react if they really knew him. Underneath Jaden’s macho bravado is a guy dealing with some pretty heavy baggage and my heart just ached for him as he deals with his various family issues and questions of his own self worth.
With Jaden, Pris, Bastian and Aspen graduating high school, What A Boy Needs picks up their story almost a year later. Things are fantastic between Bastian and Aspen, who are still so cutely in love. Bastian… the boy is completely and happily whipped and it’s adorable. Things between Jaden & Pris, however, are another matter altogether. Jaden’s liked Pris forever. In What A Boy Wants, it’s completely obvious that Jaden has a “thing” for her, but you don’t really find out how much he likes her until you’re in his head in What A Boy Needs. He’s hung up on the idea that a guy like him doesn’t deserve a girl like her, and since their “almost” encounter last summer, things haven’t been the same – their friendship has become strained and uncomfortable. While Bastian and Aspen had their ups and downs, their story is more ultimately more fun; in some ways, their relationship mishaps more funny and lighthearted. Jaden & Pris on the other hand are two stubborn people who’ve been shaped and scarred by their difficult home lives – their survival of their families dysfunction. Their story feels a bit more serious than Bastian & Aspen’s, a bit more grown up, and I love it for that reason.
Never fear, despite the slightly heavier emotional issues Nyrae Dawn deals with in this novel, it still has all the humor and heart of What A Boy Wants. Much chuckling and giggling ensued upon the reading of this book. I love the constant banter between the four friends. I love how they can just be together; how they can laugh and joke, yet also step up to the plate when one of their own is hurting. They’re true friends – in for the good, the bad and the ugly.
Overall, What A Boy Needs is a fantastic and irreverently funny read about the truth of love, the steadfastness of friendship, the freedom of moving forward, and where a boy’s worth truly lies.
June 12, 2012
OhMyJaden!
Thank you Nyrae for giving us Jay's story even if it did break my heart and leave me struggling to hold it together by the end. *cries all the tears*
I fell in love with Sebastian in What A Boy Wants but was also a HUGE fan of his smart ass BFF Jaden Sinclair. Jaden is cute, snarkilicious and the kind of guy whose always there for his friends no questions asked. His biggest flaw is not sharing his feelings with the people who love him. This is because his home life sucks and he's so beaten down by the those who are supposed to love him unconditionally. \m/ *punches them in the face* Things get worse the closer it gets to Graduation and as a result, Jay ends up in jail which jeopardizes the road trip to NYC he and his friends have been looking forward to all year.
Jaden seems to be spiraling out of control and his only hope are his lifelong friends, Sebastian, Aspen and Priscilla. Things between the foursome are strained at best because of all that went down last summer when Sebastian and Aspen finally got together and Jaden rejected Pris. The kicker is Jaden loves Pris and wants nothing more than to be with her but he doesn't feel like he's good enough. In fact, he's beginning to doubt he's good enough for any of his friends anymore. *hugs Jay*
As they set off for NYC, Jay does his best to enjoy the time he has left with his friends but his inner demons just won't let up and when it all comes to head he'll have to choose between what's real and the lies he's believed all his life. His choice could mean the difference between a new beginning full of hope and love or pushing away the very people he needs the most.
Jaden's story absolutely broke my heart and I wanted to smack the people in his life who'd hurt him. His story is also one of strength and the courage to stand up for what's right. Family isn't always about blood or who raises us even, it's about the people in your life who really see you and who love you no matter what.
Thank you Nyrae for giving us Jay's story even if it did break my heart and leave me struggling to hold it together by the end. *cries all the tears*
I fell in love with Sebastian in What A Boy Wants but was also a HUGE fan of his smart ass BFF Jaden Sinclair. Jaden is cute, snarkilicious and the kind of guy whose always there for his friends no questions asked. His biggest flaw is not sharing his feelings with the people who love him. This is because his home life sucks and he's so beaten down by the those who are supposed to love him unconditionally. \m/ *punches them in the face* Things get worse the closer it gets to Graduation and as a result, Jay ends up in jail which jeopardizes the road trip to NYC he and his friends have been looking forward to all year.
Jaden seems to be spiraling out of control and his only hope are his lifelong friends, Sebastian, Aspen and Priscilla. Things between the foursome are strained at best because of all that went down last summer when Sebastian and Aspen finally got together and Jaden rejected Pris. The kicker is Jaden loves Pris and wants nothing more than to be with her but he doesn't feel like he's good enough. In fact, he's beginning to doubt he's good enough for any of his friends anymore. *hugs Jay*
As they set off for NYC, Jay does his best to enjoy the time he has left with his friends but his inner demons just won't let up and when it all comes to head he'll have to choose between what's real and the lies he's believed all his life. His choice could mean the difference between a new beginning full of hope and love or pushing away the very people he needs the most.
Jaden's story absolutely broke my heart and I wanted to smack the people in his life who'd hurt him. His story is also one of strength and the courage to stand up for what's right. Family isn't always about blood or who raises us even, it's about the people in your life who really see you and who love you no matter what.
July 2, 2012
Nyrae Dawn… you are one talented mama!
I totally loved What a Boy Wants. Upon finishing I was so high on that book that I immediately purchased What a Boy Needs. I just had to have more and let me tell you, I wasn’t disappointed.
This book is written in Jaden’s POV and takes place about a year after What a Boy Wants. You’ll find that What a Boy Wants is light and funny whereas What a Boy Needs is delivered in a more serious voice but written just as well.
Upon finishing this book I have only one word…WOW. A lot happened in this book and I didn’t find any of it predictable. I fell in love all over again with Jaden and Priscilla. My heart bled for these kids. Jaden has endured a lot in his life and has managed to keep it all to himself without letting any of his friends in. The one thing Jaden wants more than anything is acceptance and love from the people that matter the most. Priscilla yearns for the same thing only Jaden’s situation is a lot tougher. Priscilla just wants all of Jaden because he means everything to her. She was a strong, smart and understanding Latina (YAY) who blew me away. She stuck it out and helped Jaden realize his worth.
I definitely recommend this book to everyone. I loved the writing/storytelling. I loved how it flowed. I loved all the emotions it invoked in me. I went from feeling anxious to heartbroken to hopeless to hopeful.
I’m a fan. Can’t wait to read the next book Nyrae Dawn sends our way!
P.S. Note to author… there were a couple of lines recycled from What a Boy Wants… NO! Don’t do those things. I still love ya! OK. That was all.
I totally loved What a Boy Wants. Upon finishing I was so high on that book that I immediately purchased What a Boy Needs. I just had to have more and let me tell you, I wasn’t disappointed.
This book is written in Jaden’s POV and takes place about a year after What a Boy Wants. You’ll find that What a Boy Wants is light and funny whereas What a Boy Needs is delivered in a more serious voice but written just as well.
Upon finishing this book I have only one word…WOW. A lot happened in this book and I didn’t find any of it predictable. I fell in love all over again with Jaden and Priscilla. My heart bled for these kids. Jaden has endured a lot in his life and has managed to keep it all to himself without letting any of his friends in. The one thing Jaden wants more than anything is acceptance and love from the people that matter the most. Priscilla yearns for the same thing only Jaden’s situation is a lot tougher. Priscilla just wants all of Jaden because he means everything to her. She was a strong, smart and understanding Latina (YAY) who blew me away. She stuck it out and helped Jaden realize his worth.
I definitely recommend this book to everyone. I loved the writing/storytelling. I loved how it flowed. I loved all the emotions it invoked in me. I went from feeling anxious to heartbroken to hopeless to hopeful.
I’m a fan. Can’t wait to read the next book Nyrae Dawn sends our way!
P.S. Note to author… there were a couple of lines recycled from What a Boy Wants… NO! Don’t do those things. I still love ya! OK. That was all.
July 17, 2012
After reading What A Boy Wants and loving it so much I knew I had to read What A Boy Needs right away. I wasn't really prepared for the difference between the two books. Sebastian is a comical character and he loves his friends unconditionally. What A Boy Wants is light and funny. What A Boy Needs is written from Sebastian's friend, Jaden's, point-of-view. Jaden, while laid back on the outside, is a tortured soul on the inside. Sebastian hints that Jaden has problems at home in What A Boy Wants, but it's not until you see it from his point-of-view that you realize just how bad Jaden's home life is. His father hates him and has never let him forget it. He tells him that he's worthless and will never be anything. As if that's not bad enough he find out that he's not his real father. But the part that really bothers him is that his mom has let him make Jaden's life miserable anyway. It's apparent right away that Jaden has some real baggage he needs to deal with.
For Full Review: http://flyingonsilverwings.blogspot.c...
For Full Review: http://flyingonsilverwings.blogspot.c...
September 12, 2012
4.5 stars!
Okay, so after finishing “What a Boy Wants” and seeing that there was a second book…I was not totally sure I was interested in reading it. I am SO glad I did! This book was great, I was totally immersed and did not want to put it down. It was also a quick read, but I really felt so much more for Jaden in this book then I did Sebastian in the first. Jaden is essentially verbally abused by his dad on a regular basis and he has begun to believe that he is just as worthless as his dad wants him to believe. I really liked how the author allowed us into Jaden’s thoughts, his inner dialogue really helped his character come alive. I think this is such a great story about the effects of verbal abuse and the impact our words have. I almost feel like I liked this book better than the first…maybe because I was already familiar with the characters and got a more in depth view…not sure, but either way this book is worth the read! Nyrae Dawn has a new fan, and I hope plenty more to come!
http://bookpusher.com/book-review/wha...
Okay, so after finishing “What a Boy Wants” and seeing that there was a second book…I was not totally sure I was interested in reading it. I am SO glad I did! This book was great, I was totally immersed and did not want to put it down. It was also a quick read, but I really felt so much more for Jaden in this book then I did Sebastian in the first. Jaden is essentially verbally abused by his dad on a regular basis and he has begun to believe that he is just as worthless as his dad wants him to believe. I really liked how the author allowed us into Jaden’s thoughts, his inner dialogue really helped his character come alive. I think this is such a great story about the effects of verbal abuse and the impact our words have. I almost feel like I liked this book better than the first…maybe because I was already familiar with the characters and got a more in depth view…not sure, but either way this book is worth the read! Nyrae Dawn has a new fan, and I hope plenty more to come!
http://bookpusher.com/book-review/wha...
June 22, 2012
I didn't even bother putting this book on my 'currently reading' shelf. I simply devoured it! I loved Bastian's story but I adored Jaden's! He's a totally clueless guy - not suave and a pro like Bastian (or so Bastian thought!) - and his mind set is so sad most of the time but he's so endearing that you can't help but keep reading to find out what happens! I won't spoil things but his mom is a total sh*t and should not have been allowed to reproduce. She doesn't have a maternal bone in her body and is a selfish pig. I just wanted to wrap Jay in my arms and take care of him. Nyrae's style and plots are wonderful. She gets inside a teenage boy's head in an amusing and realistic way. Both stories are must reads, in my opinion, and the ending was perfect. Exactly what I was hoping for.
June 18, 2012
The crew is back and I couldn't be happier. This time the story is told through Jaden's eyes and wow was this story emotional. Even though Jay is best friends with Bastian, Aspen, and Pris, he couldn't be more different. Nyrae Dawn definitely wrote a more raw and powerful book this time around and I loved every minute of it. We still get the hilarious lines that is Bastian, but you will be very surprised what actually goes through Jay's head. I seriously wanted to jump in the story and hug him to death. I'm sure we are saying our final goodbyes(I protest because I need more) to these lovable characters but the story ended so sweet. I will be gladly rereading both What a Boy Needs and What a Boy Wants plenty times in the future.
December 1, 2012
Wow, another great book from Nyrae Dawn. Definitely worth the 5 stars! This book focuses on Jay and Pris and is a much more emotional read than the first book. It made me cry in several places. Again, great to read a book from the male perspective. I'm really looking forward to reading more books by this author!
My only beef with Ms Dawn though....Beastie Boys are not old school!! LOL! Hot Sauce Committee Part Two came out in 2011! They are still relevant ;) It made me feel depressingly old when they were mentioned in both books, as if teenagers today don't know who they are ;)
My only beef with Ms Dawn though....Beastie Boys are not old school!! LOL! Hot Sauce Committee Part Two came out in 2011! They are still relevant ;) It made me feel depressingly old when they were mentioned in both books, as if teenagers today don't know who they are ;)
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