What do you think?
Rate this book
The Resolutions
New Years are for fresh starts, but Jess just wants everything to go back to the way it was.
From hiking trips, to four-person birthday parties, to never-ending group texts, Jess, Lee, Ryan, and Nora have always been inseparable—and unstoppable. But now, with senior year on the horizon, they’ve been splintering off and growing apart. And so, as always, Jess makes a plan.
Reinstating their usual tradition of making resolutions together on New Year’s Eve, Jess adds a new twist: instead of making their own resolutions, the four friends assign them for each other—dares like kiss someone you know is wrong for you, show your paintings, learn Spanish, say yes to everything.
But not even the best laid plans can take into account the uncertainties of life. As the year unfolds, Jess, Ryan, Nora, and Lee each test the bonds that hold them together. And amid first loves, heart breaks, and life-changing decisions, beginning again is never as simple as it seems.
From hiking trips, to four-person birthday parties, to never-ending group texts, Jess, Lee, Ryan, and Nora have always been inseparable—and unstoppable. But now, with senior year on the horizon, they’ve been splintering off and growing apart. And so, as always, Jess makes a plan.
Reinstating their usual tradition of making resolutions together on New Year’s Eve, Jess adds a new twist: instead of making their own resolutions, the four friends assign them for each other—dares like kiss someone you know is wrong for you, show your paintings, learn Spanish, say yes to everything.
But not even the best laid plans can take into account the uncertainties of life. As the year unfolds, Jess, Ryan, Nora, and Lee each test the bonds that hold them together. And amid first loves, heart breaks, and life-changing decisions, beginning again is never as simple as it seems.
416 pages, Hardcover
First published November 13, 2018
37 people are currently reading
3056 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
Read
June 21, 2018Such a cute friendship-centric read. I particularly like how the book deals with each character's relationship with being "Latinx enough," and the fact that half the MCs are queer (Ryan is gay and Nora is bi and in a very cute f/f relationship the whole book) definitely did not hurt. Nor do the food descriptions! Fave parts were definitely the little chat excerpts; I feel like that's when voice kicked in the most.
November 17, 2018
1.5 Stars
What’s kind of ridiculous is that I don’t remember finishing this book, but my notes tell me otherwise so I guess I did? My draw to The Resoultions story was no surprise, the strong friendship at its heart, and that was probably the only thing I liked. I liked how they made resolutions for each other, but I didn’t actually care for the characters themselves, except Blake and Ryan, they were the cutes. So much of this story was me not caring about what happened and that was disappointing. I also had some trouble keeping Jess and Lee straight in my head until about the halfway point, so that didn’t help. This story was so forgettable to me and I only finished the entire thing because it was so easy to read.
I received a copy of the book from Katherine Tegen Books via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
"Give yourself room to breathe. To make mistakes. Eventually you will see that you were always there, you just couldn't recognize yourself yet."
What’s kind of ridiculous is that I don’t remember finishing this book, but my notes tell me otherwise so I guess I did? My draw to The Resoultions story was no surprise, the strong friendship at its heart, and that was probably the only thing I liked. I liked how they made resolutions for each other, but I didn’t actually care for the characters themselves, except Blake and Ryan, they were the cutes. So much of this story was me not caring about what happened and that was disappointing. I also had some trouble keeping Jess and Lee straight in my head until about the halfway point, so that didn’t help. This story was so forgettable to me and I only finished the entire thing because it was so easy to read.
I received a copy of the book from Katherine Tegen Books via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
November 16, 2018
You can find the full review and all the fancy and/or randomness that accompanies it at It Starts at Midnight
3.5*
This was cute. I think that people who are a little more ride-or-die contemporary fans will probably appreciate it even more than I did, so keep that in mind. Still, I liked that it explored the different lives of these four friends as they navigated the highs and lows of high school, family, romance, and of course, their relationships with each other. So let us dive into what I enjoyed versus what I didn't as much!
The Stuff I Liked:
•Obviously, the aforementioned relationships. Seeing a bunch of friends who are truly decent people and who want the best for each other is refreshing. No toxicity, no awfulness. They had ups and downs, sure, but there is no question that they all loved each other deeply and would move heaven and earth for each other. That's rare, and I like it.
•Everything about Lee's story. She was really my favorite character, probably because her story gave me so many feels. There was a medical issue, the loss of a parent, a really complex relationship with her dad, and my favorite romance in the book.
•Loads of realistically portrayed diversity. This was really awesome- I loved how the characters were all grappling a bit with their identities as Latinx young adults. And not just their own thoughts on their identities, but also their families' expectations. There was also gay and bisexual rep, and I loved how damn healthy Nora and Beth's relationship was. It may be one of the healthiest romances I have ever read about in a YA book, honestly.
Great mental health portrayal. I liked that Jess was such a perfectionist, so adamant about dismissing her issues at first, because it seemed very honest. Truly, I feel like a lot of young people (or old people, tbh) can relate to this- a feeling of "failing" because they have actual human limits and needs. I think the author handled it very well, too.
The Stuff I Didn't:
•It felt a little longer than it needed to be. Some of the stories, especially in the beginning-middle, dragged a bit. I even considered putting the book down. I am glad I didn't, though. It was worth it in the end, but I don't know if readers who are more likely to DNF would make it to those parts? I actually ended up rounding my rating up, because I did end up liking so much of the story in the end. But it took me a hot second to really care about the characters (other than Lee) and you know, actually feel stuff, though I definitely did by the end. So even though it is my only gripe, it's sort of an important one.
Bottom Line: Lots of great stuff, though a draggy start. Absolutely worth it in the end, and I think huge contemporary fans will gobble this one up.
3.5*
This was cute. I think that people who are a little more ride-or-die contemporary fans will probably appreciate it even more than I did, so keep that in mind. Still, I liked that it explored the different lives of these four friends as they navigated the highs and lows of high school, family, romance, and of course, their relationships with each other. So let us dive into what I enjoyed versus what I didn't as much!
The Stuff I Liked:
•Obviously, the aforementioned relationships. Seeing a bunch of friends who are truly decent people and who want the best for each other is refreshing. No toxicity, no awfulness. They had ups and downs, sure, but there is no question that they all loved each other deeply and would move heaven and earth for each other. That's rare, and I like it.
•Everything about Lee's story. She was really my favorite character, probably because her story gave me so many feels. There was a medical issue, the loss of a parent, a really complex relationship with her dad, and my favorite romance in the book.
•Loads of realistically portrayed diversity. This was really awesome- I loved how the characters were all grappling a bit with their identities as Latinx young adults. And not just their own thoughts on their identities, but also their families' expectations. There was also gay and bisexual rep, and I loved how damn healthy Nora and Beth's relationship was. It may be one of the healthiest romances I have ever read about in a YA book, honestly.
Great mental health portrayal. I liked that Jess was such a perfectionist, so adamant about dismissing her issues at first, because it seemed very honest. Truly, I feel like a lot of young people (or old people, tbh) can relate to this- a feeling of "failing" because they have actual human limits and needs. I think the author handled it very well, too.
The Stuff I Didn't:
•It felt a little longer than it needed to be. Some of the stories, especially in the beginning-middle, dragged a bit. I even considered putting the book down. I am glad I didn't, though. It was worth it in the end, but I don't know if readers who are more likely to DNF would make it to those parts? I actually ended up rounding my rating up, because I did end up liking so much of the story in the end. But it took me a hot second to really care about the characters (other than Lee) and you know, actually feel stuff, though I definitely did by the end. So even though it is my only gripe, it's sort of an important one.
Bottom Line: Lots of great stuff, though a draggy start. Absolutely worth it in the end, and I think huge contemporary fans will gobble this one up.
October 9, 2018
I’ll write a review later this week but bless u Mia
edited review:
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Review:
Sometimes you're on the verge of greatness and need a little push from someone you care about to see how amazing you really are. That's the basic premise that Mia García brings with The Resolutions. Four friends challenge each other on New Year's Eve by writing resolutions for each other. These goals are written to see each other thrive, especially as Senior year and graduation are fast approaching.
First, we have Ryan. Ryan's a gay mixed Asian-Latino kid who's lost his groove after his first ever break-up. He's struggled with picking his art back up, resorting to obsessively going over all of his ex's social media platforms.
Second, there's Nora. Nora's pretty much a ghost in her friend group due to having to juggle working at her mother's restaurant, being a good student, having a stable relationship with her girlfriend Beth, and shoving down all her own dreams and ambitions.
Third is Lee, full name Francheska Lee, who lost her mom a few years back and has left any memory that has to do with her mother and heritage locked away.
And last, but not least, Jess, who's an overachieving Afro-Latina who seeks to please everyone around her, often ignoring her own well-being to do so.
All four band together to make this year a good one with the following resolutions:
1. Ryan needs to kiss someone who's wrong for him and to show his work unapologetically.
2. Nora has to put her feet in the ocean and to choose her own adventure.
3. Lee is going to relearn Spanish and decide whether to take a test that will tell her whether or not she has the same disease as her mother.
4. And Jess has to... say yes to everything that is deemed spontaneous.
As the four come to terms with what their friends' challenges mean and if that's how they see themselves, they still tackle each with... varying degrees of success.
The POVs jump between the four characters from chapter to chapter, which means we don't often get a lot of reactions to certain characters' decisions, like when Nora cuts off her hair. I wanted to get that moment when the mom saw her change, and though Nora comments on it in passing, I wished to see more of that. However, the changing POVs are when you got most of the characters' inner machinations. You get frustrated as a character decides to hide something from another, yet the other doesn't even realize they're hiding something. That's what's fantastic about the changing POVs. They're biased toward their own dilemmas and relationships, that they often overlook what's right in front of them. An example of this can be said of when Jess starts overworking herself, leading to anxiety and panic attacks.
There are four different subplots for each of the characters, which could be isolating, but you know that in the end they'd rally around each other. That's the thing that hit me the most, the characters always care about each other and never do something that would hurt someone outright. They have each other's interests at heart, but the way each interpret that affection internally is vastly different. It's incredible how García managed to tap into each of their voices, and it's never more evident than when they message each other (this was pointed out in Dahlia Adler's review, too).
By the end of the book I wanted to gather all the characters into a group hug and tell them they're worth the world. Validation may be a bitch, but they're so valid and I want to tell them that.
Anyway, come here for the friendship, and stay here for the budding romances, Beth and Nora, the FOOD (oh my God I was hungry half the time I was reading this), healthy relationships, discussions on Latinx identities, and the character development. I wholeheartedly approve of this book and you'll love this if you're searching for some queer and Latinx contemporary YA with a focus on friendships and personal growth.
Some TWs/CWs I can remember: description of anxiety and panic attacks, insomnia, alcohol consuming, sexual harassment (someone manhandles Jess at a party while she's drunk), driving under the influence, car crash, death of a loved one (mother), hospitals, injuries.
I got the ARC from an auction and it was provided by the author.
The Resolutions will be available on November 13th, 2019. You can pre-order now and send your receipt to Mia's preorder page to get some awesome book swag like a cool tote bag, a bookmark, a signed bookplate, and some stickers.
edited review:
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Review:
Sometimes you're on the verge of greatness and need a little push from someone you care about to see how amazing you really are. That's the basic premise that Mia García brings with The Resolutions. Four friends challenge each other on New Year's Eve by writing resolutions for each other. These goals are written to see each other thrive, especially as Senior year and graduation are fast approaching.
First, we have Ryan. Ryan's a gay mixed Asian-Latino kid who's lost his groove after his first ever break-up. He's struggled with picking his art back up, resorting to obsessively going over all of his ex's social media platforms.
Second, there's Nora. Nora's pretty much a ghost in her friend group due to having to juggle working at her mother's restaurant, being a good student, having a stable relationship with her girlfriend Beth, and shoving down all her own dreams and ambitions.
Third is Lee, full name Francheska Lee, who lost her mom a few years back and has left any memory that has to do with her mother and heritage locked away.
And last, but not least, Jess, who's an overachieving Afro-Latina who seeks to please everyone around her, often ignoring her own well-being to do so.
All four band together to make this year a good one with the following resolutions:
1. Ryan needs to kiss someone who's wrong for him and to show his work unapologetically.
2. Nora has to put her feet in the ocean and to choose her own adventure.
3. Lee is going to relearn Spanish and decide whether to take a test that will tell her whether or not she has the same disease as her mother.
4. And Jess has to... say yes to everything that is deemed spontaneous.
As the four come to terms with what their friends' challenges mean and if that's how they see themselves, they still tackle each with... varying degrees of success.
The POVs jump between the four characters from chapter to chapter, which means we don't often get a lot of reactions to certain characters' decisions, like when Nora cuts off her hair. I wanted to get that moment when the mom saw her change, and though Nora comments on it in passing, I wished to see more of that. However, the changing POVs are when you got most of the characters' inner machinations. You get frustrated as a character decides to hide something from another, yet the other doesn't even realize they're hiding something. That's what's fantastic about the changing POVs. They're biased toward their own dilemmas and relationships, that they often overlook what's right in front of them. An example of this can be said of when Jess starts overworking herself, leading to anxiety and panic attacks.
There are four different subplots for each of the characters, which could be isolating, but you know that in the end they'd rally around each other. That's the thing that hit me the most, the characters always care about each other and never do something that would hurt someone outright. They have each other's interests at heart, but the way each interpret that affection internally is vastly different. It's incredible how García managed to tap into each of their voices, and it's never more evident than when they message each other (this was pointed out in Dahlia Adler's review, too).
By the end of the book I wanted to gather all the characters into a group hug and tell them they're worth the world. Validation may be a bitch, but they're so valid and I want to tell them that.
Anyway, come here for the friendship, and stay here for the budding romances, Beth and Nora, the FOOD (oh my God I was hungry half the time I was reading this), healthy relationships, discussions on Latinx identities, and the character development. I wholeheartedly approve of this book and you'll love this if you're searching for some queer and Latinx contemporary YA with a focus on friendships and personal growth.
Some TWs/CWs I can remember: description of anxiety and panic attacks, insomnia, alcohol consuming, sexual harassment (someone manhandles Jess at a party while she's drunk), driving under the influence, car crash, death of a loved one (mother), hospitals, injuries.
I got the ARC from an auction and it was provided by the author.
The Resolutions will be available on November 13th, 2019. You can pre-order now and send your receipt to Mia's preorder page to get some awesome book swag like a cool tote bag, a bookmark, a signed bookplate, and some stickers.
September 24, 2018
I was so intrigued by the premise — four best friends who pick new year’s resolutions for each other and what happens over the course of a year afterward. Happy to say it lived up to my high hopes! This one is a story about relationships — with your family, friends and yourself. About how to face heartbreak and fear and pressure. About finding your way. About growing up and growing together. I thought it was pretty great!
June 23, 2018
Fun, thoughtful examination on self discovery.
April 13, 2018
*I read an advance copy*
⭐️4 amazing POVs
⭐️Pink hair
⭐️Massive shipping between (redacted)
⭐️Need Puerto Rican postres STAT
⭐️I want to give all these kids a big hug
11/10 would recommend!
⭐️4 amazing POVs
⭐️Pink hair
⭐️Massive shipping between (redacted)
⭐️Need Puerto Rican postres STAT
⭐️I want to give all these kids a big hug
11/10 would recommend!
March 16, 2019
THIS WAS ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC AND TRULY ONE OF THE BEST YA CONTEMPORARY BOOKS I'VE EVER READ. I WANNA CRY BIG FAT TEARS OF JOY.
May 11, 2020
5 stars
I honestly do not even know where to begin with this book because there are so many things that I loved about it.
This follows four friends who decide to write each other's new year's resolutions over the course of the year as they struggle to complete them. I thought each of the characters was really well-developed and stood aside on their own perfectly, but my favorite part of this book was the friendship dynamic between the four of them. This is closely followed by the fact that there is no major falling out between the friends at all over the course of the story!! The book doesn't rely on drama between the four friends to carry the story and I really appreciated that. Throughout the course of the novel, their care and love for each other is constantly emphasized and it just,,, made me so happy.
I also really loved all of the individual storylines within this book and I think they were all given ample time to develop and grow which I really appreciated. I felt all of the characters' worries and insecurities so deeply and I adore the way Mia Garcia wrote their emotions.
I loved reading about Nora and her worries with going to culinary school and leaving her family cafe behind. I also just loved reading about Nora baking because I am a very big fan of baking books and this one definitely didn't disappoint on that front!! Nora is also in the cutest (sapphic) relationship for the entirety of this book and this brought me so much joy.
I loved reading about Lee and her struggles and insecurities and I also really liked the direction that her particular story took. I have to say I am also a very big fan of how this one concluded, even though it wasn't in the way I was expecting.
I loved reading about Ryan's struggle with rediscovering who he is outside of his relationship with his ex-boyfriend and coming back to art. The last few chapters from Ryan's POV made me incredibly emotional because they hit really close to home for me. I love Ryan with all of my heart that's all, thanks.
I especially loved reading about Jess and the amount of pressure she puts on herself to perform and to not let anyone down and to constantly take on more responsibilities. Everything that was said in Jess' chapters hit so close to home for me, especially with the way she feels like she's never enough and too much for other people at the same time. This book was very validating in that regard. I cried a lot.
I also really appreciate how family is a really big part of this book as well. The families of our four main characters differ significantly from each other, but they're all present and they're a significant part of the story in every character's case. I loved seeing them interact with their families and I loved the way they contributed to the main arcs of the book. Also?? Ryan's grandmother literally deserves the world I will not be taking any criticisms on this.
There isn't really a central plot to the story besides the resolutions, which kind of sprout off into the four different storylines that I discussed above, so I guess the last thing to talk about is the friendship, since I started with that as well. Throughout the story, the friendships between different characters grow and change as they rely more on each other and are more open and honest with each other and I honestly loved every second of it. I love reading about messy teens supporting messy teens and that's exactly what this book gave me and I love it with all of my heart.
I honestly do not even know where to begin with this book because there are so many things that I loved about it.
This follows four friends who decide to write each other's new year's resolutions over the course of the year as they struggle to complete them. I thought each of the characters was really well-developed and stood aside on their own perfectly, but my favorite part of this book was the friendship dynamic between the four of them. This is closely followed by the fact that there is no major falling out between the friends at all over the course of the story!! The book doesn't rely on drama between the four friends to carry the story and I really appreciated that. Throughout the course of the novel, their care and love for each other is constantly emphasized and it just,,, made me so happy.
I also really loved all of the individual storylines within this book and I think they were all given ample time to develop and grow which I really appreciated. I felt all of the characters' worries and insecurities so deeply and I adore the way Mia Garcia wrote their emotions.
I loved reading about Nora and her worries with going to culinary school and leaving her family cafe behind. I also just loved reading about Nora baking because I am a very big fan of baking books and this one definitely didn't disappoint on that front!! Nora is also in the cutest (sapphic) relationship for the entirety of this book and this brought me so much joy.
I loved reading about Lee and her struggles and insecurities and I also really liked the direction that her particular story took. I have to say I am also a very big fan of how this one concluded, even though it wasn't in the way I was expecting.
I loved reading about Ryan's struggle with rediscovering who he is outside of his relationship with his ex-boyfriend and coming back to art. The last few chapters from Ryan's POV made me incredibly emotional because they hit really close to home for me. I love Ryan with all of my heart that's all, thanks.
I especially loved reading about Jess and the amount of pressure she puts on herself to perform and to not let anyone down and to constantly take on more responsibilities. Everything that was said in Jess' chapters hit so close to home for me, especially with the way she feels like she's never enough and too much for other people at the same time. This book was very validating in that regard. I cried a lot.
I also really appreciate how family is a really big part of this book as well. The families of our four main characters differ significantly from each other, but they're all present and they're a significant part of the story in every character's case. I loved seeing them interact with their families and I loved the way they contributed to the main arcs of the book. Also?? Ryan's grandmother literally deserves the world I will not be taking any criticisms on this.
There isn't really a central plot to the story besides the resolutions, which kind of sprout off into the four different storylines that I discussed above, so I guess the last thing to talk about is the friendship, since I started with that as well. Throughout the story, the friendships between different characters grow and change as they rely more on each other and are more open and honest with each other and I honestly loved every second of it. I love reading about messy teens supporting messy teens and that's exactly what this book gave me and I love it with all of my heart.
November 15, 2018
I don't even know where to begin with this book, because I LOVED IT SO MUCH!!
I was looking for a story of friendship, and this book gave me that ten-fold, PLUS a look at some really beautiful and meaningful personal journeys.
Jess, Ryan, Nora, and Lee had been friends for different lengths of time, but there was no doubt that each one held a solid place in their group. They had gathered once again for the annual New Year's Eve celebration, and instead of making their own resolutions, this year, they would be made by the other three friends.
I loved the idea of someone else selecting the goals, because the resolutions they made were done quite thoughtfully and with the intention of nudging that person outside of their comfort zone or in the direction of something they needed to face. Some were pretty straight forward, some were more vague, and others were really difficult, but in the end, each person grew so much, and learned a tremendous amount about themselves and those they loved in the process.
Ryan was nursing a broken heart, and his resolutions were meant to help him mend and rediscover himself. Nora was busy living someone else's dream, and her friends hoped that the resolutions they chose for her, would push her to assert her own wants, needs, and dreams. Jess' resolution didn't quite play out the way her friends had hoped, but it did end up being pretty life changing for her.
But Lee's resolutions sort of broke me. I cried a river for Lee. I cried, because of the reality she had to face. I cried for what she had lost, and what she thought she couldn't have. And then I cried, because Garcia did her some really wonderful things for her, and I saw her moving into a hopeful place. Her story really hit me the hardest, and I loved the way Garcia let it unfold. It was messy, but full of so many special moments.
Clearly, I loved the characters, and the secondary characters were just as great as the main characters, however, the families really stood out among the supporting cast. Each one of the protagonists had an awesome family. They came in all shapes and sizes, but they were great sources of support and endless love for the Ryan, Jess, Nora, and Lee. I, of course, had a special place in my heart for Ryan's grandmother, because she was too fabulous, and Lee's dad, because he, like Lee, was dealing with a lot. Her dad made such an effort to be honest and to connect with Lee, and I found their relationship quite lovely.
This book explores friendship, family, identity, love, loss, heartbreak, aspirations, desires, dreams, commitments, and many other challenges teens face, and I thought Garcia did so in an authentic, emotional, and meaningful way.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
BLOG | INSTAGRAM |TWITTER | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
I was looking for a story of friendship, and this book gave me that ten-fold, PLUS a look at some really beautiful and meaningful personal journeys.
Jess, Ryan, Nora, and Lee had been friends for different lengths of time, but there was no doubt that each one held a solid place in their group. They had gathered once again for the annual New Year's Eve celebration, and instead of making their own resolutions, this year, they would be made by the other three friends.
I loved the idea of someone else selecting the goals, because the resolutions they made were done quite thoughtfully and with the intention of nudging that person outside of their comfort zone or in the direction of something they needed to face. Some were pretty straight forward, some were more vague, and others were really difficult, but in the end, each person grew so much, and learned a tremendous amount about themselves and those they loved in the process.
Ryan was nursing a broken heart, and his resolutions were meant to help him mend and rediscover himself. Nora was busy living someone else's dream, and her friends hoped that the resolutions they chose for her, would push her to assert her own wants, needs, and dreams. Jess' resolution didn't quite play out the way her friends had hoped, but it did end up being pretty life changing for her.
But Lee's resolutions sort of broke me. I cried a river for Lee. I cried, because of the reality she had to face. I cried for what she had lost, and what she thought she couldn't have. And then I cried, because Garcia did her some really wonderful things for her, and I saw her moving into a hopeful place. Her story really hit me the hardest, and I loved the way Garcia let it unfold. It was messy, but full of so many special moments.
Clearly, I loved the characters, and the secondary characters were just as great as the main characters, however, the families really stood out among the supporting cast. Each one of the protagonists had an awesome family. They came in all shapes and sizes, but they were great sources of support and endless love for the Ryan, Jess, Nora, and Lee. I, of course, had a special place in my heart for Ryan's grandmother, because she was too fabulous, and Lee's dad, because he, like Lee, was dealing with a lot. Her dad made such an effort to be honest and to connect with Lee, and I found their relationship quite lovely.
This book explores friendship, family, identity, love, loss, heartbreak, aspirations, desires, dreams, commitments, and many other challenges teens face, and I thought Garcia did so in an authentic, emotional, and meaningful way.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
BLOG | INSTAGRAM |TWITTER | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
April 25, 2019
*I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through Goodreads. This is an honest review.*
The Resolutions was a slow start for me, but I ended up really enjoying this book. The characters just pulled me into their world and I couldn’t help but to fall in love with all of them.
This book has a lot of great things going for it. First, it’s beautifully diverse, with bi-racial representation, and a couple of main characters who are on various parts of the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. Garcia has created teen characters who are incredibly thoughtful in their actions and how they respect other people. Romantic interests actually ask permission before touching and kissing, which I think should be standard, but it so often isn’t in stories. I love this because it creates a mindset that this should (and it should) be the norm and expectation. I also love that the romances aren’t clichéd. Girls make the first moves sometimes, or sometimes boys make the first moves; the gender norms are mostly broken and I love that it reflects such a genuine representation of reality. This thoughtfulness carries into every aspect of her writing and I just appreciated the story so much more because it felt so carefully and beautifully done.
Garcia is able to do all of this and still accurately represent the hardships and struggles that her characters go through; self-doubt, anxiety for the future, trying so hard to please parents, etc. All of these are very common, relatable teenage (and older) concepts that everyone has dealt with, and it’s this everyday real-life stuff that provides the conflict and crux of her characters’ lives. I loved that we get four very different main characters who have different perspectives and things going on in their lives, but they’re all connected through their friendship.
Overall, this is an entertaining read that delves into some “serious issues” territory while still feeling fun and light. It dragged a little in places, but the characters really pulled me through it and I become super invested in all of their stories. I will definitely be on the watch for future books from this author.
Also posted on Purple People Readers.
The Resolutions was a slow start for me, but I ended up really enjoying this book. The characters just pulled me into their world and I couldn’t help but to fall in love with all of them.
This book has a lot of great things going for it. First, it’s beautifully diverse, with bi-racial representation, and a couple of main characters who are on various parts of the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. Garcia has created teen characters who are incredibly thoughtful in their actions and how they respect other people. Romantic interests actually ask permission before touching and kissing, which I think should be standard, but it so often isn’t in stories. I love this because it creates a mindset that this should (and it should) be the norm and expectation. I also love that the romances aren’t clichéd. Girls make the first moves sometimes, or sometimes boys make the first moves; the gender norms are mostly broken and I love that it reflects such a genuine representation of reality. This thoughtfulness carries into every aspect of her writing and I just appreciated the story so much more because it felt so carefully and beautifully done.
Garcia is able to do all of this and still accurately represent the hardships and struggles that her characters go through; self-doubt, anxiety for the future, trying so hard to please parents, etc. All of these are very common, relatable teenage (and older) concepts that everyone has dealt with, and it’s this everyday real-life stuff that provides the conflict and crux of her characters’ lives. I loved that we get four very different main characters who have different perspectives and things going on in their lives, but they’re all connected through their friendship.
Overall, this is an entertaining read that delves into some “serious issues” territory while still feeling fun and light. It dragged a little in places, but the characters really pulled me through it and I become super invested in all of their stories. I will definitely be on the watch for future books from this author.
Also posted on Purple People Readers.
April 16, 2019
Over all I enjoyed this book and it was good. It wasn’t transformative for me but I’m grown and my growing pains are far behind me. But for a young Latin kid trying to find their way? This book could make all the difference and I’m so glad that it exists in the world.
December 30, 2019
We’re so used to the weight of emotions we don’t notice we carry them everywhere.Ya lo terminé! I cried and smiled and felt so connected to Jess, Lee, Nora & Ryan (Jess and Nora specifically).
It did drag in the middle for me, it's was a little too long, but nevertheless, I thought it was a sweet friendship story with amazing representation that felt like home.
October 31, 2018
I fell for all of the characters in this book! I saw myself, my friends and the evergreen drama that makes up teenage years in beautiful display. Don't sleep on this wonderful story!
February 2, 2019
4.5 stars.
I have a lot to say about this book but I don't know how to put it in words. Just know... that this is officially a big fave.
I have a lot to say about this book but I don't know how to put it in words. Just know... that this is officially a big fave.
December 13, 2018
Plot
This book was so good that I was inspired to do what the characters did. Jess feels like her groups of friends are drifting apart with their busy lives. So, to bring the group back together and to have some fun she declares that their resolutions for the year will be done differently. Instead of everyone saying what they want to complete for the year the group will get together and give them two resolutions. Each person had a resolution that was specific to something the other friends felt was necessary to them and they needed the push to do. Ryan needs to kiss someone wrong for him and show off his artwork. Lee needs to learn Spanish and take a test that will tell her if she has the same disease that killed her mother. Nora needs to step her feet into the ocean and choose her own path. Jess needs to say yes to everything that is spontaneous. As the year goes on, the four friends work towards their resolutions but it is not easy for all of them. For some of them, the resolutions make life a little harder. They learn a lot themselves and each other along this year journey and I was so happy about the ending. I and my family have done this because I was influenced by the book and wanted to try it out. The initial moment of giving each other a resolution was a huge success and now we just see if we can complete them by the end of the year. I really loved how unique the plot was and it is not something I have ever read.
Characters
Ryan is a gay mixed Asian-Latino who has lost his touch after a breakup with a boy he swore was the one. He doesn't know how to continue on, he's lost his inspiration to continue his love of art, and he is confused on how you move on from a breakup. Nora is a lesbian Latina who struggles with balancing working at her mother's restaurant, doing good in school, time with friends, time with her girlfriend Beth, and her love of baking. She is tired and wants to live out her dreams but she is not sure how to tell her mom that her dream is not her mothers. Lee is an Afro-Latina who is scared of knowing whether or not she has the same disease that killed her mother because every little trip up reminds her of what happened to her mom. She wants to learn Spanish and her tutor is Daniel, Jess's brother, whom she is growing close to but is afraid of what that will mean with her friend. Lastly, we have Jess an overachieving Latina who is a people pleaser and has trouble saying yes to people in need even if it combats with her wellbeing. As the year goes on cracks in her demeanor start to happen until one final moment makes everything unravel. I love the depth in each character and how the author writes about their struggles. My favorite thing though was how they overcame each of their struggles.
Writing/Romance
The writing was easy to read and follow. I enjoyed how light it was but also how much depth it held. But, I LOVED the romance aspect. Let me tell you why. With Ryan, I enjoyed how the author didn't give him a canon relationship by the end but more so the promise of one between him and Blake. Instead of dealing with his first breakup and throwing him into a new relationship we see him grow as a person. Then we get an already established relationship with Nora and Beth and all the cuteness that comes with. And lastly, we get a growing relationship between Lee and Daniel and all the newness that comes with. They are all so precious and executed nicely and sweetly.
Favorite Quotes
Then Blake leaned in to whisper, "I'm saying you can kiss me if you want to."
“You already know it, you know?" "Know what?" "What your adventure is"..."Doesn't feel like it..." Still, Beth nodded. "It's in here." She touched Nora's temple, brushing her fingers down her neck to her chest above her heart. "And here. Everything else is just too loud. Eventually, you'll hear it, it'll be the loudest thing in here."
I want you to remember what I'm saying because it may not mean much right now, but eventually you'll know. Relationships, love, they are extensions of you. They are not all of you. You do not cease to be when they are over.
Don't hide, she thought, feel, want, need. You can have this. "Can I kiss you?" He exhaled. "F*** yes." They reached for each other at the same time. His lips were soft and welcoming.
"You don't need to find yourself, you are yourself," she declared with a squeeze of his hand. What does that mean? "When something breaks what do you do?" she continued. "I throw it away?" "You put it back together." "What if it's too broken to ever be the same?" "Ah," she said, her eyes catching the light. "It won't be the same. You are not the same. Maybe that's why you are having trouble. You keep trying to rebuild, to find that version of you somewhere whose heart never broke, but he no longer exists. And you don't have to be the same to love the things you loved. To be loved again."
"Give yourself room to breathe. To make mistakes. Eventually, you will see that you were always there, you just couldn't recognize yourself yet."
This is who you are. Scars and all.
This book was so good that I was inspired to do what the characters did. Jess feels like her groups of friends are drifting apart with their busy lives. So, to bring the group back together and to have some fun she declares that their resolutions for the year will be done differently. Instead of everyone saying what they want to complete for the year the group will get together and give them two resolutions. Each person had a resolution that was specific to something the other friends felt was necessary to them and they needed the push to do. Ryan needs to kiss someone wrong for him and show off his artwork. Lee needs to learn Spanish and take a test that will tell her if she has the same disease that killed her mother. Nora needs to step her feet into the ocean and choose her own path. Jess needs to say yes to everything that is spontaneous. As the year goes on, the four friends work towards their resolutions but it is not easy for all of them. For some of them, the resolutions make life a little harder. They learn a lot themselves and each other along this year journey and I was so happy about the ending. I and my family have done this because I was influenced by the book and wanted to try it out. The initial moment of giving each other a resolution was a huge success and now we just see if we can complete them by the end of the year. I really loved how unique the plot was and it is not something I have ever read.
Characters
Ryan is a gay mixed Asian-Latino who has lost his touch after a breakup with a boy he swore was the one. He doesn't know how to continue on, he's lost his inspiration to continue his love of art, and he is confused on how you move on from a breakup. Nora is a lesbian Latina who struggles with balancing working at her mother's restaurant, doing good in school, time with friends, time with her girlfriend Beth, and her love of baking. She is tired and wants to live out her dreams but she is not sure how to tell her mom that her dream is not her mothers. Lee is an Afro-Latina who is scared of knowing whether or not she has the same disease that killed her mother because every little trip up reminds her of what happened to her mom. She wants to learn Spanish and her tutor is Daniel, Jess's brother, whom she is growing close to but is afraid of what that will mean with her friend. Lastly, we have Jess an overachieving Latina who is a people pleaser and has trouble saying yes to people in need even if it combats with her wellbeing. As the year goes on cracks in her demeanor start to happen until one final moment makes everything unravel. I love the depth in each character and how the author writes about their struggles. My favorite thing though was how they overcame each of their struggles.
Writing/Romance
The writing was easy to read and follow. I enjoyed how light it was but also how much depth it held. But, I LOVED the romance aspect. Let me tell you why. With Ryan, I enjoyed how the author didn't give him a canon relationship by the end but more so the promise of one between him and Blake. Instead of dealing with his first breakup and throwing him into a new relationship we see him grow as a person. Then we get an already established relationship with Nora and Beth and all the cuteness that comes with. And lastly, we get a growing relationship between Lee and Daniel and all the newness that comes with. They are all so precious and executed nicely and sweetly.
Favorite Quotes
Then Blake leaned in to whisper, "I'm saying you can kiss me if you want to."
“You already know it, you know?" "Know what?" "What your adventure is"..."Doesn't feel like it..." Still, Beth nodded. "It's in here." She touched Nora's temple, brushing her fingers down her neck to her chest above her heart. "And here. Everything else is just too loud. Eventually, you'll hear it, it'll be the loudest thing in here."
I want you to remember what I'm saying because it may not mean much right now, but eventually you'll know. Relationships, love, they are extensions of you. They are not all of you. You do not cease to be when they are over.
Don't hide, she thought, feel, want, need. You can have this. "Can I kiss you?" He exhaled. "F*** yes." They reached for each other at the same time. His lips were soft and welcoming.
"You don't need to find yourself, you are yourself," she declared with a squeeze of his hand. What does that mean? "When something breaks what do you do?" she continued. "I throw it away?" "You put it back together." "What if it's too broken to ever be the same?" "Ah," she said, her eyes catching the light. "It won't be the same. You are not the same. Maybe that's why you are having trouble. You keep trying to rebuild, to find that version of you somewhere whose heart never broke, but he no longer exists. And you don't have to be the same to love the things you loved. To be loved again."
"Give yourself room to breathe. To make mistakes. Eventually, you will see that you were always there, you just couldn't recognize yourself yet."
This is who you are. Scars and all.
April 19, 2019
I didn't realize before beginning this book that it was a book about Latin American teens. That's a concept that would have meant the world to me as a kid, and even as an adult I was immediately delighted. The premise is also pretty fun: four friends make up New Year's Resolutions for each other and the consequences that ensue from trying to follow them.
What I found interesting about this story is the way it shows how, sometimes, the people who love us see who we are much more clearly than we do ourselves. So often we stand in our own way, when one small push could help us get past whatever is holding us - as happened to Ryan. In this case, however, the friends get more than they bargained for when some of them don't embrace their resolutions with the spirit their friends hoped. This is, of course, the other side of that coin: when we resist or misunderstand that small push, things can get worse, as they do for Nora and Jess, and even Lee in a way. It was a really engaging story, and I enjoyed it a great deal.
Another thing I particularly liked was how these kids were not super rebels or super overachievers (except Jess). They were just regular kids who wanted to live their goals, respect their families, and get through high school. It was so refreshing and relatable. I could read this over and over.
What I found interesting about this story is the way it shows how, sometimes, the people who love us see who we are much more clearly than we do ourselves. So often we stand in our own way, when one small push could help us get past whatever is holding us - as happened to Ryan. In this case, however, the friends get more than they bargained for when some of them don't embrace their resolutions with the spirit their friends hoped. This is, of course, the other side of that coin: when we resist or misunderstand that small push, things can get worse, as they do for Nora and Jess, and even Lee in a way. It was a really engaging story, and I enjoyed it a great deal.
Another thing I particularly liked was how these kids were not super rebels or super overachievers (except Jess). They were just regular kids who wanted to live their goals, respect their families, and get through high school. It was so refreshing and relatable. I could read this over and over.
May 3, 2020
me reading ya contemporary about high schoolers when i was in high school: fun, relatable
me reading ya contemporary about high schoolers one (1) year out of high school: won't someone protect these CHILDREN
me reading ya contemporary about high schoolers one (1) year out of high school: won't someone protect these CHILDREN
December 18, 2018
Real rating: 3.5 stars. I liked it!!
December 30, 2019
Since this book is centered around New Year’s resolutions, it’s the perfect book to read at the end of the year, despite the fact that only the beginning and ending take place on New Year’s Eve.
The story follows four friends who make resolutions for each other. Each character is dealing with different issues. I really liked the friendship dynamic and how they were always there for each other.
Jess - dealing with unbelievable pressure to take on “everything” - student council president, AP classes, early decision for college, scholarship essays, etc. She was a textbook example of burning the candle at both ends. She also suffers from panic attacks that she hides from her friends and family. I really felt for Jess as that is a common issue that many kids face. I couldn’t believe her friends gave her the resolution that she had to say “yes” to everything. That put incredible pressure on her. I was glad she got help in the end.
Ryan - dealing with a breakup with his boyfriend that has left him devastated and wanting closure. I couldn’t relate to him very well; he came off as somewhat clingy and I wanted him to write off Jason a lot earlier than he did (though I was glad he was able to in the end).
Nora - dealing with the pressure of helping in her mother’s restaurant when what she really wants to do is go to culinary school and become a baker. I couldn’t stand Nora’s mother. She was so selfish and didn’t seem to mind that her daughter put school on the back burner to help her out all the time.
Lee - dealing with a possible diagnosis of Huntington’s Disease (the genetic disease that caused her mother’s death). I really felt for her and I liked her story, even though it was sad. I wish the book mentioned the results of her test!
Overall I liked the story and the characters, but the random phrases in other languages were a bit difficult to follow. I do speak Spanish so that was ok, but Ryan’s grandmother was from Taiwan and it didn’t have a translation handy so I had to guess what was being said based on context clues. The book is also a bit on the long side at over 400 pages and I’m not sure it needed to be that long.
Nonetheless a good book to read as 2019 draws to a close.
The story follows four friends who make resolutions for each other. Each character is dealing with different issues. I really liked the friendship dynamic and how they were always there for each other.
Jess - dealing with unbelievable pressure to take on “everything” - student council president, AP classes, early decision for college, scholarship essays, etc. She was a textbook example of burning the candle at both ends. She also suffers from panic attacks that she hides from her friends and family. I really felt for Jess as that is a common issue that many kids face. I couldn’t believe her friends gave her the resolution that she had to say “yes” to everything. That put incredible pressure on her. I was glad she got help in the end.
Ryan - dealing with a breakup with his boyfriend that has left him devastated and wanting closure. I couldn’t relate to him very well; he came off as somewhat clingy and I wanted him to write off Jason a lot earlier than he did (though I was glad he was able to in the end).
Nora - dealing with the pressure of helping in her mother’s restaurant when what she really wants to do is go to culinary school and become a baker. I couldn’t stand Nora’s mother. She was so selfish and didn’t seem to mind that her daughter put school on the back burner to help her out all the time.
Lee - dealing with a possible diagnosis of Huntington’s Disease (the genetic disease that caused her mother’s death). I really felt for her and I liked her story, even though it was sad. I wish the book mentioned the results of her test!
Overall I liked the story and the characters, but the random phrases in other languages were a bit difficult to follow. I do speak Spanish so that was ok, but Ryan’s grandmother was from Taiwan and it didn’t have a translation handy so I had to guess what was being said based on context clues. The book is also a bit on the long side at over 400 pages and I’m not sure it needed to be that long.
Nonetheless a good book to read as 2019 draws to a close.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 5, 2018
Omg!! I loved this book! These characters and their stories were so realistic and heartfelt, I couldn't help but fall in love with them!
My sweet bebé Ryan who deserves all the happiness in the world!!!!
Nora, who I am so proud of for picking her own path in life! Lee, who had such a beautiful growth arc I could cry about it and, well, I did. And JESS!! Oml I just wanted to wrap her in a blanket and give her hot chocolate for the entire novel. Her resolution was so fitting and I'm so happy for her.
Other things I loved about this book: how much it explored each character's interests and personalities, the strong friendships, the realistic relationships, the diversity within the Latinx community, the Spanglish, the sweet relationship between Nora and Beth, the descriptions of heartbreak, and just...so many things!
I adored each of these characters' journeys and would definitely recommend this book ❤
My sweet bebé Ryan who deserves all the happiness in the world!!!!
Nora, who I am so proud of for picking her own path in life! Lee, who had such a beautiful growth arc I could cry about it and, well, I did. And JESS!! Oml I just wanted to wrap her in a blanket and give her hot chocolate for the entire novel. Her resolution was so fitting and I'm so happy for her.
Other things I loved about this book: how much it explored each character's interests and personalities, the strong friendships, the realistic relationships, the diversity within the Latinx community, the Spanglish, the sweet relationship between Nora and Beth, the descriptions of heartbreak, and just...so many things!
I adored each of these characters' journeys and would definitely recommend this book ❤
May 17, 2020
I don't remember how I found The Resolutions, but I do remember specifically wanting to pick it up in January, since it deals with New Year's resolutions. And this really is the perfect time to read this book, even though it's not exclusively set around New Year's.
Not only did I read it at the right time, it's also the right kind of book for me. It's centered around friendship, which I love. And it's slice of life, which I also love. There isn't a major focus on an intricate plot, but instead you get to know these characters and you get to know them and follow them for a little while, and get immersed in their lives.
One downside of this book was that it follows four main characters, but not all of them were as well developed. I especially loved Nora, and felt like she had a clear voice from the start. I also loved Ryan, and while I really liked Lee and Jess, I found I had a hard time telling them apart at times, and it wasn't always very clear what defined them as characters. This did get better as the book progressed, however, and in the end, I do feel like all characters had a lot of depth.
Another small downside is that sometimes the sequence of events was unclear to me. A few times, something would suddenly have happened and it was never explained how or why, which was a little confusing and felt rushed.
Rep: gay Asian-Latinx MC, bisexual Latinx MC, Latinx MC, Latinx MC
CWs: past death of a parent, car accident, hospital, panic attacks
Not only did I read it at the right time, it's also the right kind of book for me. It's centered around friendship, which I love. And it's slice of life, which I also love. There isn't a major focus on an intricate plot, but instead you get to know these characters and you get to know them and follow them for a little while, and get immersed in their lives.
One downside of this book was that it follows four main characters, but not all of them were as well developed. I especially loved Nora, and felt like she had a clear voice from the start. I also loved Ryan, and while I really liked Lee and Jess, I found I had a hard time telling them apart at times, and it wasn't always very clear what defined them as characters. This did get better as the book progressed, however, and in the end, I do feel like all characters had a lot of depth.
Another small downside is that sometimes the sequence of events was unclear to me. A few times, something would suddenly have happened and it was never explained how or why, which was a little confusing and felt rushed.
Rep: gay Asian-Latinx MC, bisexual Latinx MC, Latinx MC, Latinx MC
CWs: past death of a parent, car accident, hospital, panic attacks
November 21, 2018
I love friendship books so much, especially when they're also diverse!
4.5 stars
4.5 stars
February 3, 2019
Such a great read. The way García navigates four POV's with ease is nothing short of incredible. A must read contemporary!
April 4, 2019
Refreshing because it reflects the world I want children to live in--a world where parents of LGBTQIA+ kids love and accept their children unconditionally, where all kids get to forge their paths and explore their own ambitions, where kids with mental illness, with support, can be O.K., where Latinx kids are shown as smart, talented, nuanced, ad intersectional...
May 9, 2024
2.5 rounded up
October 29, 2018
Maybe 4.5 but i'm rounding down cause i'm mad. May round up when i'm less mad. RTC.
January 14, 2020
Slow, passable read, read for a reading challenge but wouldn't ordinarily go for this type, enjoyed it but wont take long to forget it
January 1, 2023
Po prostu ok, nie zachwyca jakoś mocno.
Read
July 17, 2024I loved the friendship aspect and how there was never a major falling-out between the four POVs! They just... love and care about one another and it's so sweet. There was a bit of romantic subplot, but the vast majority of the relationship focus was just on the four with each other (and, secondarily, their families).
I also loved the characters' journeys with themselves over the course of the book, and how they struggled to know what they wanted but eventually took determined steps towards their dreams, even though they knew they would be hard. Nora and Lee with future schooling, Ryan with his art and figuring out who he is without his ex-boyfriend, and Jess with school and stress. I related to Jess's story a lot, with her anxiety and overwhelming pressure and so many responsibilities while also feeling like she's a burden to those around her and worrying constantly she's not good enough. I, who barely ever cry at books, got a little teary-eyed at
The secondary characters were marvelous as well, especially Ryan's grandma (I love her) and Nora's girlfriend Beth, who's also friends with the rest of the group. I loved how the crew had good relationships with their parents, even if they did argue or get in trouble at times.
I just thought a lot of it dragged and was largely forgettable, and I had no concept of a timeline. Each chapter, for the most part, was just a little snippet from a character's life at some point following the prior snippet from another character's life, giving it less of a fluid, continuous story feel. The writing style was sometimes hard to follow as well.
But overall it was soft and positive with casual representation of Latinx and queer characters!
(recommended by Enne)
I also loved the characters' journeys with themselves over the course of the book, and how they struggled to know what they wanted but eventually took determined steps towards their dreams, even though they knew they would be hard. Nora and Lee with future schooling, Ryan with his art and figuring out who he is without his ex-boyfriend, and Jess with school and stress. I related to Jess's story a lot, with her anxiety and overwhelming pressure and so many responsibilities while also feeling like she's a burden to those around her and worrying constantly she's not good enough. I, who barely ever cry at books, got a little teary-eyed at
The secondary characters were marvelous as well, especially Ryan's grandma (I love her) and Nora's girlfriend Beth, who's also friends with the rest of the group. I loved how the crew had good relationships with their parents, even if they did argue or get in trouble at times.
I just thought a lot of it dragged and was largely forgettable, and I had no concept of a timeline. Each chapter, for the most part, was just a little snippet from a character's life at some point following the prior snippet from another character's life, giving it less of a fluid, continuous story feel. The writing style was sometimes hard to follow as well.
But overall it was soft and positive with casual representation of Latinx and queer characters!
(recommended by Enne)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews