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The Pizza Chronicles #1
Why Can't Life Be Like Pizza?
RV is a good kid, starting his freshman year at the demanding Boston Latin School. Though his genes didn’t give him a lot of good things, they did give him a decent brain. So he’s doing his best to keep up in high school, despite all the additional pressures he’s facing: His immigrant parents, who don’t want him to forget his roots and insist on other rules. Some tough kids at school who bully teachers as well as students. His puny muscles. His mean gym teacher. The Guy Upstairs who doesn’t answer his prayers. And the most confusing fact of all—that he might be gay.
Luckily, RV develops a friendship with Mr. Aniso, his Latin teacher, who is gay and always there to talk to. RV thinks his problems are solved when he starts going out with Carole. But things only get more complicated when RV develops a crush on Bobby, the football player in his class. And to RV’s surprise, Bobby admits he may have gay feelings, too.
Luckily, RV develops a friendship with Mr. Aniso, his Latin teacher, who is gay and always there to talk to. RV thinks his problems are solved when he starts going out with Carole. But things only get more complicated when RV develops a crush on Bobby, the football player in his class. And to RV’s surprise, Bobby admits he may have gay feelings, too.
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First published February 11, 2014
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dnf
November 25, 2020INFODUMP CITY.
Wow. I've made it to 6%, and it is just telling telling telling telling telling telling telling telling telling telling telling telling telling telling telling telling telling telling telling.
I tried to push through all that to get to the part where the story begins and hopefully some showing will commence, but I ran out of stamina before the book ran out of things it wanted to TELL me. Ai-yi-yi.
Wow. I've made it to 6%, and it is just telling telling telling telling telling telling telling telling telling telling telling telling telling telling telling telling telling telling telling.
I tried to push through all that to get to the part where the story begins and hopefully some showing will commence, but I ran out of stamina before the book ran out of things it wanted to TELL me. Ai-yi-yi.
February 1, 2021
Thanks to the publisher for providing a digital copy of Why Can't Life Be Like Pizza in exchange for an honest review.
The top review for this book right now is a DNF that calls it info dumpy and I'm here to tell you that stylistically, this has to be. It doesn't really advertise it so it also took me a few chapters of being really confused at the 'telling, never showing' narration to realize that this story is told through diary entries. The style didn't really work for me and I honestly think this would have been better told through standard narration. Roamer keeps wanting to input levels of detail (especially in dialogue and dialogue tags) that just realistically wouldn't happen in a teenager's diary. It also leads to this really odd trend where RV will describe something he clearly already knows (i.e. a Lithuanian tradition or a translation of a Lithuanian phrase another character uses) that there's absolutely no logical reason for him to feel the need to include.
I do like the way this book tackles some of the less pretty sides of questioning your sexuality, however since the story best lends itself so much to a younger audience (I'd say preteens) I think a lot more of RV's negative perceptions of queerdom needed to be addressed. Maybe they'd eventually be addressed in a later book, but I think we needed at least stronger indications that RV is realizing he's wrong from the get-go. For example, RV is very anti effeminate men and although he does befriend the main target of his judgement, he specifically tells another character that that's done because he can look beyond the fact that he's feminine instead of because he realized that there's nothing wrong with being a feminine guy.
The top review for this book right now is a DNF that calls it info dumpy and I'm here to tell you that stylistically, this has to be. It doesn't really advertise it so it also took me a few chapters of being really confused at the 'telling, never showing' narration to realize that this story is told through diary entries. The style didn't really work for me and I honestly think this would have been better told through standard narration. Roamer keeps wanting to input levels of detail (especially in dialogue and dialogue tags) that just realistically wouldn't happen in a teenager's diary. It also leads to this really odd trend where RV will describe something he clearly already knows (i.e. a Lithuanian tradition or a translation of a Lithuanian phrase another character uses) that there's absolutely no logical reason for him to feel the need to include.
I do like the way this book tackles some of the less pretty sides of questioning your sexuality, however since the story best lends itself so much to a younger audience (I'd say preteens) I think a lot more of RV's negative perceptions of queerdom needed to be addressed. Maybe they'd eventually be addressed in a later book, but I think we needed at least stronger indications that RV is realizing he's wrong from the get-go. For example, RV is very anti effeminate men and although he does befriend the main target of his judgement, he specifically tells another character that that's done because he can look beyond the fact that he's feminine instead of because he realized that there's nothing wrong with being a feminine guy.
April 13, 2020
An enjoyable coming of age story touching on issues like identity -cultural & individual and sexuality. A lovely read with a relatable and likeable lead in RV, he’s cute , awkward and geeky. It’s just a great read.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
June 8, 2020
I swear I didn’t know that this book was part of a series when I read it. I didn’t even know it was part of a series by the time I finished it. I honestly didn’t know it was part of a series until I started to put the pieces together to write this review. Which wouldn’t matter normally, but one of the first things I thought when I finished Why Can’t Life Be Like Pizza? was that it just kind of ended and there was so much more that I not only wanted to know, but things that I wanted resolved. Needless to say, I feel much better now. 😉
Being inside RV’s head throughout this story was an interesting place to be. Which brings me to another point, this story is pretty much ALL in RV’s head. In other words, this is a story that is “told” be RV. There is little to no “showing”, which will be a stickler for some readers. It didn’t bother me much, but I felt it was worth mentioning.
RV is one of those “real” characters. He is far from perfect and he knows it. He’s awkward, but sincere, most of the time. He’s embarrassed by his family, which every teenager is from time to time. He wants to be normal, but what exactly is normal? Which is something that RV discovers as he’s trying to come to terms with who he is.
I really liked spending time with RV as well as his friends and family. Pizza, and more importantly, the location of said pizza, played an important role in Why Can’t Life Be Like Pizza? and I loved the connection. Now that I know that there’s more to come, I can’t wait to continue The Pizza Chronicles. 😉
I received Why Can't Life Be More Like Pizza in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Being inside RV’s head throughout this story was an interesting place to be. Which brings me to another point, this story is pretty much ALL in RV’s head. In other words, this is a story that is “told” be RV. There is little to no “showing”, which will be a stickler for some readers. It didn’t bother me much, but I felt it was worth mentioning.
RV is one of those “real” characters. He is far from perfect and he knows it. He’s awkward, but sincere, most of the time. He’s embarrassed by his family, which every teenager is from time to time. He wants to be normal, but what exactly is normal? Which is something that RV discovers as he’s trying to come to terms with who he is.
I really liked spending time with RV as well as his friends and family. Pizza, and more importantly, the location of said pizza, played an important role in Why Can’t Life Be Like Pizza? and I loved the connection. Now that I know that there’s more to come, I can’t wait to continue The Pizza Chronicles. 😉
I received Why Can't Life Be More Like Pizza in exchange for a fair and honest review.
March 27, 2020
This is a really charming coming of age story. More of a diary, really, in which RV recounts his troubles during his first year of high school.
I adored RV. Kind, caring, the sweetest fourteen years old kid, who just wanted to fit in with the crowd. He used a lightly humored tone to describe the problems in his family, the difficulties he had at school and how his Lithuanian origins were influencing his day to day life. He went through a lot of cute introspective moments and discussions with The Guy Ahead, hoping for a clear answer to his identity and sexuality. But none really came, and he was so adorable and endearing, suffering from first love jitters and seemingly unrequited crush.
I liked the way, through RV's experiences, the author treated the subject of teenage confusion and hormone infused drama. 𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗖𝗮𝗻'𝘁 𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲 𝗕𝗲 𝗟𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗣𝗶𝘇𝘇𝗮?, indeed.
Recommended.
*ARC provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing&Design in exchange for an honest review
I adored RV. Kind, caring, the sweetest fourteen years old kid, who just wanted to fit in with the crowd. He used a lightly humored tone to describe the problems in his family, the difficulties he had at school and how his Lithuanian origins were influencing his day to day life. He went through a lot of cute introspective moments and discussions with The Guy Ahead, hoping for a clear answer to his identity and sexuality. But none really came, and he was so adorable and endearing, suffering from first love jitters and seemingly unrequited crush.
I liked the way, through RV's experiences, the author treated the subject of teenage confusion and hormone infused drama. 𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗖𝗮𝗻'𝘁 𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲 𝗕𝗲 𝗟𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗣𝗶𝘇𝘇𝗮?, indeed.
Recommended.
*ARC provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing&Design in exchange for an honest review
January 9, 2022
It was a littel so and so. So damn much info-dump i can`t even.
It was interesting coming to age and finding yourself.
But very telling not showing and giving information when it was not needed.
I got this eARC from Netgalley.
It was interesting coming to age and finding yourself.
But very telling not showing and giving information when it was not needed.
I got this eARC from Netgalley.
May 4, 2020
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
RV is 14 years old and in his first year of High School. We spend a year with him as he goes through life dealing with issues in his family life, problems with friendships, girl problems and dealing with his sexuality. He thinks he may be gay, or bi, he isn't really sure.
Why Can't Life Be Like Pizza was a little slow to start off but once it got going I really enjoyed it. As someone in their 40s you look at a 14 year old as someone young with no worries. Really though they are often dealing with a lot of serious problems just like us adults, they just have less life experience.
I particularly enjoyed seeing RVs home life. He is the son of Lithuanian immigrants and I liked seeing what life was like for him as a member of that community and what being a child of an immigrant is like.
I'm looking forward to more installments of The Pizza Chronicles and seeing what happens with RV's love life, finding out what is going on with his little brother and generally seeing what life will bring for him next. This is a good start to a new series.
RV is 14 years old and in his first year of High School. We spend a year with him as he goes through life dealing with issues in his family life, problems with friendships, girl problems and dealing with his sexuality. He thinks he may be gay, or bi, he isn't really sure.
Why Can't Life Be Like Pizza was a little slow to start off but once it got going I really enjoyed it. As someone in their 40s you look at a 14 year old as someone young with no worries. Really though they are often dealing with a lot of serious problems just like us adults, they just have less life experience.
I particularly enjoyed seeing RVs home life. He is the son of Lithuanian immigrants and I liked seeing what life was like for him as a member of that community and what being a child of an immigrant is like.
I'm looking forward to more installments of The Pizza Chronicles and seeing what happens with RV's love life, finding out what is going on with his little brother and generally seeing what life will bring for him next. This is a good start to a new series.
June 20, 2022
Disclaimer: I received an Advance Reader Copy at no cost from the publisher/author. All opinions in my review are my own.
First things first: the blurb for this book reveals every single thing that happens?! It kinda beats the purpose of reading it in the first place.
This book tells the story of 14 year old RV, son of Lithuanian immigrants, in his first year of high school as he tries to navigate his life and questions about his own identity. It’s told in a kind of diary format. We seer RV’s dysfunctional family on the verge of falling apart. We see him question his sexuality, whether he could be gay or not. And more.
Although the writing can be a little messy at times, it was an enjoyable read. I had a hard time connecting to the characters though, mainly because of the writing style. I did like the way the issue of identity was touched on in this book and that the story didn’t shy away from topics such as homophobia. The author tackles many serious and poignant themes throughout. This book felt like an accurate portrayal of a young person’s journey through self-discovery.
I’m looking forward to reading more installments and seeing what happens next. I’m glad that this book has a sequel as I didn’t feel the ending was a true ending. The book ends with the school year, leaving so many unanswered questions.
First things first: the blurb for this book reveals every single thing that happens?! It kinda beats the purpose of reading it in the first place.
This book tells the story of 14 year old RV, son of Lithuanian immigrants, in his first year of high school as he tries to navigate his life and questions about his own identity. It’s told in a kind of diary format. We seer RV’s dysfunctional family on the verge of falling apart. We see him question his sexuality, whether he could be gay or not. And more.
Although the writing can be a little messy at times, it was an enjoyable read. I had a hard time connecting to the characters though, mainly because of the writing style. I did like the way the issue of identity was touched on in this book and that the story didn’t shy away from topics such as homophobia. The author tackles many serious and poignant themes throughout. This book felt like an accurate portrayal of a young person’s journey through self-discovery.
I’m looking forward to reading more installments and seeing what happens next. I’m glad that this book has a sequel as I didn’t feel the ending was a true ending. The book ends with the school year, leaving so many unanswered questions.
March 28, 2020
4.5 stars
Arvydas--called RV for short is the eldest son of Lithuanian immigrant parents. His parents emigrated when they were barely teens to escape the Soviet occupation and the hard life of the Old Country, but they haven't forgotten their Lith roots. RV and his younger brother Ray have been taught to speak Lithuanian in their home--though Ray rarely does. RV is a bit embarrassed of his parents, to be honest, because their broken English makes them sound illiterate, and RV is really a literate kid. He's been accepted into the Boston Latin School--a high honor--and he loves English probably the most of his classes.
RV has some deep secrets, though, most especially that he likes boys that way he thinks, even though he prays to God about it all the time. He's pretty sure God doesn't hear his prayers, much. RV goes to Lith church and has to hang with Lith kids, including the wealthy sort-of cousins that are some far relation to his mother's family. RV's parents fight a lot, mostly about money, but sometimes about RV and his "odd" ways. RV tries to be as quiet as possible so he won't attract attention. He's close friends with Carole, and army brat who's moved a lot. Carole puts the moves on RV, and he's kinda glad that she is willing to kiss him, but he's not sure about how he feels when they make out. Is it weird that he's sometimes thinking about his biology lab partner, Bobby, who is an attractive, black, super-athlete, when Carole kisses him?
Bobby is new to school and he's friendly with RV, which is so confusing! They hang out at the same pizzeria sometimes, and Bobby is always asking for RV to look over his writing homework--which RV is so happy to do. It gives him more time to hang with Bobby after all. But, as the year wears on RV's feelings about boys are really solidifying. He and Carole aren't really working out. Bobby's dating a really popular girl and RV's dealing with jealousy, struggles at home, and the news that his effeminate Latin teacher has been hospitalized for was seems a gay bashing. Mr. Aniso was "swishy" in a way that RV feared appearing, and his students often made fun of him--RV included. But, RV does see Mr. Aniso's extraordinary bravery, and he's compelled to visit Mr. Aniso in the hospital where he learns about the man, not the teacher. Their visits help RV learn more about himself, too, and Mr. Aniso's ready acceptance of RV's questioning situation provides the support and context that RV really needs.
This coming of age/coming out story is tender and poignant, with a character who had many challenges to discover and overcome. RV's family life is unstable, and his culturally bigoted parents will likely not accept his sexuality. RV's large father, whose temper is often volatile, makes him feel unsafe to live his truth, but he is able to find allies in his life, including Mr. Aniso, Bobby, and Carole. The narrative is told through RV's journal, so readers can be sure they are getting RV's truest thoughts, and accurate representations of his emotional state, even when he's confused and pondering. I honestly adored RV, who is so earnest and so nervous. He's in an almost-constant state of panic, afraid to say the wrong thing to everyone. As his relationships grow, however, he learns who he can trust, and how to navigate the difficult conversations. He gains confidence, and with that comes some sparks of happiness.
I liked how Bobby and RV are able to carefully reveal that they both might like boys to one another, and how they might also like each other in that way. RV's courage, and frustration, help this happen and it works out so well for him. There's a TOUCH of romance here, in the most YA-friendly manner. I would gladly follow RV into more adventures.
Arvydas--called RV for short is the eldest son of Lithuanian immigrant parents. His parents emigrated when they were barely teens to escape the Soviet occupation and the hard life of the Old Country, but they haven't forgotten their Lith roots. RV and his younger brother Ray have been taught to speak Lithuanian in their home--though Ray rarely does. RV is a bit embarrassed of his parents, to be honest, because their broken English makes them sound illiterate, and RV is really a literate kid. He's been accepted into the Boston Latin School--a high honor--and he loves English probably the most of his classes.
RV has some deep secrets, though, most especially that he likes boys that way he thinks, even though he prays to God about it all the time. He's pretty sure God doesn't hear his prayers, much. RV goes to Lith church and has to hang with Lith kids, including the wealthy sort-of cousins that are some far relation to his mother's family. RV's parents fight a lot, mostly about money, but sometimes about RV and his "odd" ways. RV tries to be as quiet as possible so he won't attract attention. He's close friends with Carole, and army brat who's moved a lot. Carole puts the moves on RV, and he's kinda glad that she is willing to kiss him, but he's not sure about how he feels when they make out. Is it weird that he's sometimes thinking about his biology lab partner, Bobby, who is an attractive, black, super-athlete, when Carole kisses him?
Bobby is new to school and he's friendly with RV, which is so confusing! They hang out at the same pizzeria sometimes, and Bobby is always asking for RV to look over his writing homework--which RV is so happy to do. It gives him more time to hang with Bobby after all. But, as the year wears on RV's feelings about boys are really solidifying. He and Carole aren't really working out. Bobby's dating a really popular girl and RV's dealing with jealousy, struggles at home, and the news that his effeminate Latin teacher has been hospitalized for was seems a gay bashing. Mr. Aniso was "swishy" in a way that RV feared appearing, and his students often made fun of him--RV included. But, RV does see Mr. Aniso's extraordinary bravery, and he's compelled to visit Mr. Aniso in the hospital where he learns about the man, not the teacher. Their visits help RV learn more about himself, too, and Mr. Aniso's ready acceptance of RV's questioning situation provides the support and context that RV really needs.
This coming of age/coming out story is tender and poignant, with a character who had many challenges to discover and overcome. RV's family life is unstable, and his culturally bigoted parents will likely not accept his sexuality. RV's large father, whose temper is often volatile, makes him feel unsafe to live his truth, but he is able to find allies in his life, including Mr. Aniso, Bobby, and Carole. The narrative is told through RV's journal, so readers can be sure they are getting RV's truest thoughts, and accurate representations of his emotional state, even when he's confused and pondering. I honestly adored RV, who is so earnest and so nervous. He's in an almost-constant state of panic, afraid to say the wrong thing to everyone. As his relationships grow, however, he learns who he can trust, and how to navigate the difficult conversations. He gains confidence, and with that comes some sparks of happiness.
I liked how Bobby and RV are able to carefully reveal that they both might like boys to one another, and how they might also like each other in that way. RV's courage, and frustration, help this happen and it works out so well for him. There's a TOUCH of romance here, in the most YA-friendly manner. I would gladly follow RV into more adventures.
April 21, 2020
Andy V. Roamer’s ‘Why Can’t Life Be Like Pizza?’ strikes a lifelike bullseye.
It could serve as a sociological study on adolescent identity formation, while bringing smiles to stuffy academicians (like me), as we cheer on its hero. I can’t wait for The Pizza Chronicles, two!
In some ways, fourteen-year-old RV is a typical teenager. “Sometimes I feel like I’m made of different parts and can’t figure out how they all fit together anymore.” RV has added pressures, such as being a second generation Lithuanian American, coming to grips with his sexuality and humanity, high family tension, and a homophobic high school climate.
Written as his journal, we learn all his bewilderment. How much of his heritage should he incorporate, versus his current culture? Is he gay if he likes girls? What about his attraction to Bobby, his jock lab mate? And oops, what does it mean if he doesn’t notice Bobby is black until introducing Bobby to his parents. Luckily, his teacher and mentor, Mr. Aniso, is able to help.
First of all, I love how RV introduces his family. Here’s his reaction to his Dad’s Lithuanian pride. “This thing isn’t good in the US or that thing was better in the Old Country. If he’s not happy here I’m sorry. What am I supposed to do about it? Am I stuck with his heritage? I have my hands full managing my own life. I have my own heritage, don’t I?” And when his younger brother complains, “We were born here,” his dad snaps back. “If you born in barn, you horse?” Snark, meet snark.
In contrast, RV’s mother is softer. For example, when young and frightened by bullying classmates, his mother soothes him in Lithuanian. “Translated, that sentence means, ‘Don’t worry. You’re smart. When you grow up, you’ll show them.’ Actually, not ‘you’ll show them,’ but ‘you’ll wipe all their noses.’ Lithuanians have a funny way of expressing themselves. Not sure I aspire to wiping anyone’s nose when I get older, but that’s what they say.” It is this running commentary that makes the novel shine, because we get to see the difference between RV’s words or behaviors and his internal interpretations of them. And don’t we all have a skewed vision of ourselves?
RV’s humor saves him time and again, like when he was sent to a better neighborhood to spare him violence, and he notes, “I still have gotten a few black-and-blue marks with ‘made in West Roxbury’ on them, so as far as I’m concerned it isn’t any perfect place either.”
RV’s personality is pure, clean. Not that he’s naïve, but he keeps struggling to be a decent person, even after he coins a nasty phrase about Mr. Aniso, his gay teacher… to distance himself from the violence he sees heaped on other gay kids. Then, he visits Mr. Aniso after the older man has faced adversity, and comes to appreciate his teacher’s bravery and strength of character.
And when Bobby and RV’s friendship progresses to the point of honesty, we all feel RV’s relief. “You don’t know how bad holding secrets feels until you let go of them,” RV tells his diary. It’s a sentiment I recall learning in adolescence, when all of life felt too heavy to handle alone. Sharing confidence with trusted friends allowed me to feel like RV. “Life might not be nirvana, but it’s still full of promise.”
I would have loved to have read Andy V. Roamer’s Why Can’t Life Be Like Pizza? at that point in my life. While simply telling one boy’s story, Roamer addresses many questions universal to the American teen’s experiences. Bravo for introducing us to a wonderful young man. This is a great gift for any confused teen.
In some ways, fourteen-year-old RV is a typical teenager. “Sometimes I feel like I’m made of different parts and can’t figure out how they all fit together anymore.” RV has added pressures, such as being a second generation Lithuanian American, coming to grips with his sexuality and humanity, high family tension, and a homophobic high school climate.
Written as his journal, we learn all his bewilderment. How much of his heritage should he incorporate, versus his current culture? Is he gay if he likes girls? What about his attraction to Bobby, his jock lab mate? And oops, what does it mean if he doesn’t notice Bobby is black until introducing Bobby to his parents. Luckily, his teacher and mentor, Mr. Aniso, is able to help.
First of all, I love how RV introduces his family. Here’s his reaction to his Dad’s Lithuanian pride. “This thing isn’t good in the US or that thing was better in the Old Country. If he’s not happy here I’m sorry. What am I supposed to do about it? Am I stuck with his heritage? I have my hands full managing my own life. I have my own heritage, don’t I?” And when his younger brother complains, “We were born here,” his dad snaps back. “If you born in barn, you horse?” Snark, meet snark.
In contrast, RV’s mother is softer. For example, when young and frightened by bullying classmates, his mother soothes him in Lithuanian. “Translated, that sentence means, ‘Don’t worry. You’re smart. When you grow up, you’ll show them.’ Actually, not ‘you’ll show them,’ but ‘you’ll wipe all their noses.’ Lithuanians have a funny way of expressing themselves. Not sure I aspire to wiping anyone’s nose when I get older, but that’s what they say.” It is this running commentary that makes the novel shine, because we get to see the difference between RV’s words or behaviors and his internal interpretations of them. And don’t we all have a skewed vision of ourselves?
RV’s humor saves him time and again, like when he was sent to a better neighborhood to spare him violence, and he notes, “I still have gotten a few black-and-blue marks with ‘made in West Roxbury’ on them, so as far as I’m concerned it isn’t any perfect place either.”
RV’s personality is pure, clean. Not that he’s naïve, but he keeps struggling to be a decent person, even after he coins a nasty phrase about Mr. Aniso, his gay teacher… to distance himself from the violence he sees heaped on other gay kids. Then, he visits Mr. Aniso after the older man has faced adversity, and comes to appreciate his teacher’s bravery and strength of character.
And when Bobby and RV’s friendship progresses to the point of honesty, we all feel RV’s relief. “You don’t know how bad holding secrets feels until you let go of them,” RV tells his diary. It’s a sentiment I recall learning in adolescence, when all of life felt too heavy to handle alone. Sharing confidence with trusted friends allowed me to feel like RV. “Life might not be nirvana, but it’s still full of promise.”
I would have loved to have read Andy V. Roamer’s Why Can’t Life Be Like Pizza? at that point in my life. While simply telling one boy’s story, Roamer addresses many questions universal to the American teen’s experiences. Bravo for introducing us to a wonderful young man. This is a great gift for any confused teen.
May 4, 2020
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I received a free eARC of this book in exchange for my honest review
First things first: the blurb for this book desperately needs changing. It reveals every single major plot point?! The discussion with Bobby about gay feelings doesn't happen until almost the very end and yet it's in the blurb?! It completely destroyed any suspense or mystery around Bobby and RV's relationship with him.
Now on to the book. Unfortunately this really didn't live up to my expectations. It was definitely a stream of consciousness style of narrative, which is fine usually, but in this case it felt like the author used that as an excuse to just info dump ever five pages rather than describe anything. I have no real idea what anyone looks like except that Carole is 'ginger and skinny' because RV repeats that so many times. Also he doesn't mention that Bobby is black for so long, or the races of pretty much anyone else which was a bit strange. It was so hard to visualise anything.
I also thought the voice was completely wrong. RV reads like a middle-grader, and a young one at that. No 14 year old would sound like this. What's more, it was completely inconsistent with the dialogue, which came across as really stilted and forced and way too mature at some points and way too young at others. Every conversation about 'important' topics was so forced and was so clearly forcing a message every time it was painful. There was no nuance or subtlety, which is excusable in a middle grade, but not a young adult.
This book was also so dated. Maybe it wasn't set in the modern day, but that isn't made clear. There is talk of Ray always being on his phone, but I don't hear RV talking about a phone or texting anyone. It was so weird?!
Finally, I thought the character development was very odd and inconsistent. RV doesn't really realise that being gay is ok until right at the end and very suddenly. And he still has a lot of negative views on other people and his own culture. It just felt like a lot of the themes weren't explored properly.
This book had a lot of potential, it just needed a lot more work before it was published.
I received a free eARC of this book in exchange for my honest review
First things first: the blurb for this book desperately needs changing. It reveals every single major plot point?! The discussion with Bobby about gay feelings doesn't happen until almost the very end and yet it's in the blurb?! It completely destroyed any suspense or mystery around Bobby and RV's relationship with him.
Now on to the book. Unfortunately this really didn't live up to my expectations. It was definitely a stream of consciousness style of narrative, which is fine usually, but in this case it felt like the author used that as an excuse to just info dump ever five pages rather than describe anything. I have no real idea what anyone looks like except that Carole is 'ginger and skinny' because RV repeats that so many times. Also he doesn't mention that Bobby is black for so long, or the races of pretty much anyone else which was a bit strange. It was so hard to visualise anything.
I also thought the voice was completely wrong. RV reads like a middle-grader, and a young one at that. No 14 year old would sound like this. What's more, it was completely inconsistent with the dialogue, which came across as really stilted and forced and way too mature at some points and way too young at others. Every conversation about 'important' topics was so forced and was so clearly forcing a message every time it was painful. There was no nuance or subtlety, which is excusable in a middle grade, but not a young adult.
This book was also so dated. Maybe it wasn't set in the modern day, but that isn't made clear. There is talk of Ray always being on his phone, but I don't hear RV talking about a phone or texting anyone. It was so weird?!
Finally, I thought the character development was very odd and inconsistent. RV doesn't really realise that being gay is ok until right at the end and very suddenly. And he still has a lot of negative views on other people and his own culture. It just felt like a lot of the themes weren't explored properly.
This book had a lot of potential, it just needed a lot more work before it was published.
July 21, 2020
I don't read a lot of YA books, but was completely charmed by this book. We meet RV, a 15-year-old with a foot in two different worlds. As the child of Lithuanian immigrants, he lives with expectations that he will revere his heritage and immerse himself in Lith social activities. And as a typical American teenager, he's got a whole set of worries, including wondering if he might be gay.
"Not that I am gay for certain. I'm just saying it's crossed my mind because .... well, because I think about guys sometime. And I notice them. Notice how they look when they're coming down the street. Notice their eyes or their hair or the way they move. Just notice them."
Written in a diary format, we get an insight into RV's freshman year at the very competitive Boston Latin School. RV's first girlfriend is Carole and while he is thrilled that he is "making out with a girl and feeling her up like other guys do," he is much more interested in friendship with Bobby Marshall, who plays football and is one of the popular guys. As RV gets to know Bobby, he realizes that Bobby's life is not perfect - he's under tremendous pressure from his parents to succeed - and he is also realizing he is gay.
There is little more than a kiss or two (other than RV's make-up sessions with Carole where he marvels that she really had a lot of colorful bras ....) and the book ends at the end of the school year. I really enjoyed this first book in the series and will definitely read the next book "Why Can't Freshman Summer Be Like Pizza?" 4 stars.
I received an ARC from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
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"Not that I am gay for certain. I'm just saying it's crossed my mind because .... well, because I think about guys sometime. And I notice them. Notice how they look when they're coming down the street. Notice their eyes or their hair or the way they move. Just notice them."
Written in a diary format, we get an insight into RV's freshman year at the very competitive Boston Latin School. RV's first girlfriend is Carole and while he is thrilled that he is "making out with a girl and feeling her up like other guys do," he is much more interested in friendship with Bobby Marshall, who plays football and is one of the popular guys. As RV gets to know Bobby, he realizes that Bobby's life is not perfect - he's under tremendous pressure from his parents to succeed - and he is also realizing he is gay.
There is little more than a kiss or two (other than RV's make-up sessions with Carole where he marvels that she really had a lot of colorful bras ....) and the book ends at the end of the school year. I really enjoyed this first book in the series and will definitely read the next book "Why Can't Freshman Summer Be Like Pizza?" 4 stars.
I received an ARC from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
May 3, 2020
FR- Alors alors.. alors j’aime énormément les romans Young Adult et là on est en plein dedans. Ce roman est assez court donc ça va être difficile de faire une chronique longue mais j’ai énormément aimé .
La plume de l’auteur est très agréable, on suit RV dans sa vie de tous les jours, ses questionnements, que ce soit sur sa famille, ses origines, sa vie en général ou sa sexualité. J’ai aimé que le roman aborde plusieurs thèmes qui sont important pour RV et j’ai hâte d’en apprendre plus sur lui et les autres personnages dans les tomes à venir.
Il s’agit du journal intime de RV et j’ai aimé la façon dont l’auteur nous immerge dans la tête de ce garçon de 14 ans; J’ai aimé suivre ses questionnements et l voir doucement grandir au fil des pages et des épreuves. Ici rien de dramatique. Le quotidien d’un gamin de 14 ans issu d’une famille d’immigrés Lituaniens qui essayent de s’adapter aux Etats Unis. Un gamin qui essaye de trouver sa place entre traditions d’un pays qu’il n’a jamais connu et sa vie aux Etats Unis. Qui essaye de trouver sa place, dans sa famille, dans son école mais aussi dans la société au sens plus large.
RV a beaucoup c’humour et j’ai vraiment aimé la façon dont l’auteur nous fait partager ses pensées.
En résumé, un très bon roman young adult, une petite bouffée de fraîcheur qui aborde des thèmes importants de manière simple et forte. Vivement la suite.
ENG- So well well well… well
I really like the Young Adult novels and here we are right in the middle. This novel is quite short so it’s going to be difficult to write a long column, but I really liked it.
The author’s pen is very pleasant, we follow RV in his everyday life, his questions, whether on his family, his origins, his life in general or his sexuality. I liked that the novel addresses several themes that are important for RV and I look forward to learning more about him and the other characters in the future volumes.
This is the RV diary and I liked the way the author immerses us in the mind of this 14 year old boy; I enjoyed following her questions and seeing her slowly grow over the pages and tests. Nothing dramatic here. The daily life of a 14 year old kid from a family of Lithuanian immigrants who are trying to adapt to the United States. A kid who is trying to find his place between the traditions of a country he has never known and his life in the United States. Who is trying to find his place, in his family, in his school but also in society at large.
RV has a lot of humor and I really liked the way the author shares his thoughts with us.
In summary, a very good young adult novel, a little breath of freshness that tackles important themes in a simple and strong way. Cant’ wait for book 2.
La plume de l’auteur est très agréable, on suit RV dans sa vie de tous les jours, ses questionnements, que ce soit sur sa famille, ses origines, sa vie en général ou sa sexualité. J’ai aimé que le roman aborde plusieurs thèmes qui sont important pour RV et j’ai hâte d’en apprendre plus sur lui et les autres personnages dans les tomes à venir.
Il s’agit du journal intime de RV et j’ai aimé la façon dont l’auteur nous immerge dans la tête de ce garçon de 14 ans; J’ai aimé suivre ses questionnements et l voir doucement grandir au fil des pages et des épreuves. Ici rien de dramatique. Le quotidien d’un gamin de 14 ans issu d’une famille d’immigrés Lituaniens qui essayent de s’adapter aux Etats Unis. Un gamin qui essaye de trouver sa place entre traditions d’un pays qu’il n’a jamais connu et sa vie aux Etats Unis. Qui essaye de trouver sa place, dans sa famille, dans son école mais aussi dans la société au sens plus large.
RV a beaucoup c’humour et j’ai vraiment aimé la façon dont l’auteur nous fait partager ses pensées.
En résumé, un très bon roman young adult, une petite bouffée de fraîcheur qui aborde des thèmes importants de manière simple et forte. Vivement la suite.
ENG- So well well well… well
I really like the Young Adult novels and here we are right in the middle. This novel is quite short so it’s going to be difficult to write a long column, but I really liked it.
The author’s pen is very pleasant, we follow RV in his everyday life, his questions, whether on his family, his origins, his life in general or his sexuality. I liked that the novel addresses several themes that are important for RV and I look forward to learning more about him and the other characters in the future volumes.
This is the RV diary and I liked the way the author immerses us in the mind of this 14 year old boy; I enjoyed following her questions and seeing her slowly grow over the pages and tests. Nothing dramatic here. The daily life of a 14 year old kid from a family of Lithuanian immigrants who are trying to adapt to the United States. A kid who is trying to find his place between the traditions of a country he has never known and his life in the United States. Who is trying to find his place, in his family, in his school but also in society at large.
RV has a lot of humor and I really liked the way the author shares his thoughts with us.
In summary, a very good young adult novel, a little breath of freshness that tackles important themes in a simple and strong way. Cant’ wait for book 2.
April 1, 2020
4.5 Stars
Why Can't Life Be Like Pizza? is a realistic young adult novel by Andy V Roamer.
This coming of age tale follows RV as he questions his sexuality, deals with family issues, and more. He's a boy who knows he's gay, but tries dating girls. His story is one of struggles, including problems with friends, dating, and family. It includes self-doubt, homophobia, and a hate crime.
The author tackles many serious and poignant themes throughout. He explores that every household has their secrets; that no family is as they seem. He illustrates cultural, immigration and racial struggles.
The writing is great, with the author's voice being realistic of the RV's age and struggles. The writing is fluid and the story line relevant.
The following line is wonderful. "You don't know how bad holding secrets feel until you let go of them." Not only do LGBTQA people suffer from holding secrets, everyone suffers from this issue. And, yes, the weight that falls off one's shoulders when they let go of said secrets is life altering.
Why Can't Life Be Like Pizza? is a tale of questioning oneself, questioning labels, and keeping secrets. This Andy V Roamer novel is well worth a read by any teen looking for proof that they aren't alone in the world. It's a wonderful story for anyone who struggles with trying to figure out where they fit in.
Why Can't Life Be Like Pizza? is a realistic young adult novel by Andy V Roamer.
This coming of age tale follows RV as he questions his sexuality, deals with family issues, and more. He's a boy who knows he's gay, but tries dating girls. His story is one of struggles, including problems with friends, dating, and family. It includes self-doubt, homophobia, and a hate crime.
The author tackles many serious and poignant themes throughout. He explores that every household has their secrets; that no family is as they seem. He illustrates cultural, immigration and racial struggles.
The writing is great, with the author's voice being realistic of the RV's age and struggles. The writing is fluid and the story line relevant.
The following line is wonderful. "You don't know how bad holding secrets feel until you let go of them." Not only do LGBTQA people suffer from holding secrets, everyone suffers from this issue. And, yes, the weight that falls off one's shoulders when they let go of said secrets is life altering.
Why Can't Life Be Like Pizza? is a tale of questioning oneself, questioning labels, and keeping secrets. This Andy V Roamer novel is well worth a read by any teen looking for proof that they aren't alone in the world. It's a wonderful story for anyone who struggles with trying to figure out where they fit in.
January 3, 2023
Ebook provided by NetGalley for review. Thank you.
CW: homophobic language, light racism
I was disappointed by this book. R.V. was not a particularly likeable character. One of two children of Lithuanian immigrant parents living in the US with his brother Ray (age unknown? Acts older but implied to be younger.) R.V. complained a lot but did nothing to fix anything. Apparently he's some kind of genius and brags about doing well in school and enjoying homework and reading difficult books. He also complained a lot about all the "Lith stuff" that his parents were involved in but I thought it was great that his parents are so in touch with their culture.
Also considering that he's pondering his own sexuality R.V.'s attitudes were quite homophobic. He was very dismissive about his teacher for being swishy, limp-wristed, femme and having a high voice. Said teacher is not even confirmed to be gay at this point. That comes later after a homophobia based attack which is then brushed off. No mention of reporting it or anything.
Overall I just found this book flat and boring. The diary style doesn't work particularly well, why would you explain stuff about your language and culture that you already know in your own diary? Also the ending was very abrupt, I guess to get people to read the sequel. Sorry but book one did not draw me in enough to warrant reading the second.
CW: homophobic language, light racism
I was disappointed by this book. R.V. was not a particularly likeable character. One of two children of Lithuanian immigrant parents living in the US with his brother Ray (age unknown? Acts older but implied to be younger.) R.V. complained a lot but did nothing to fix anything. Apparently he's some kind of genius and brags about doing well in school and enjoying homework and reading difficult books. He also complained a lot about all the "Lith stuff" that his parents were involved in but I thought it was great that his parents are so in touch with their culture.
Also considering that he's pondering his own sexuality R.V.'s attitudes were quite homophobic. He was very dismissive about his teacher for being swishy, limp-wristed, femme and having a high voice. Said teacher is not even confirmed to be gay at this point. That comes later after a homophobia based attack which is then brushed off. No mention of reporting it or anything.
Overall I just found this book flat and boring. The diary style doesn't work particularly well, why would you explain stuff about your language and culture that you already know in your own diary? Also the ending was very abrupt, I guess to get people to read the sequel. Sorry but book one did not draw me in enough to warrant reading the second.
April 18, 2020
I had such high hopes for this, but I'm disappointed in its execution.
RV is 14, the son of Lithuanian immigrants, and a freshman at a very demanding Boston high school. To deal with all the pressures in his life, he keeps a journal on the refurbished computer his parents bought him. Between worrying about school and the state of his parents' marriage, RV's main source of trouble is himself: he has started to suspect that he might be gay. Seeing how the other students treat their gay Latin teacher isn't exactly helping RV come to terms with his suspicion. When he starts dating Carole, he thinks his problem is solved. But then he starts to develop feelings for Bobby, the star athlete at his school. And RV thinks that Bobby might be gay too.
I had a hard time connecting to the characters, mainly because of the writing style. The story is told in a diary format, with the main character relaying everything that happened to us after the fact. Unfortunately, the writing felt very forced and the dialogues were unrealistic. I did like the way the issue of identity was touched on in this book.
(I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.)
RV is 14, the son of Lithuanian immigrants, and a freshman at a very demanding Boston high school. To deal with all the pressures in his life, he keeps a journal on the refurbished computer his parents bought him. Between worrying about school and the state of his parents' marriage, RV's main source of trouble is himself: he has started to suspect that he might be gay. Seeing how the other students treat their gay Latin teacher isn't exactly helping RV come to terms with his suspicion. When he starts dating Carole, he thinks his problem is solved. But then he starts to develop feelings for Bobby, the star athlete at his school. And RV thinks that Bobby might be gay too.
I had a hard time connecting to the characters, mainly because of the writing style. The story is told in a diary format, with the main character relaying everything that happened to us after the fact. Unfortunately, the writing felt very forced and the dialogues were unrealistic. I did like the way the issue of identity was touched on in this book.
(I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.)
February 28, 2021
RV is a 14-year old boy going to Latin Gramma School. He’s a smart, grammar-loving kid who thinks he might be gay, which wouldn’t bode well with his immigrant, Catholic family. He’s often confused by his identity. Was he really gay? He even tries to persuade himself by looking at girlie magazines and even develop a crush on a girl. He just wants to be a normal guy. But what was “normal?”
Story had a nice and easy narrative that carries well. The reader is immersed in the rambling, jumbled thoughts of a confused boy’s diary. The character often uses repetition to question matters and drives a point, which, at times, made him seem like a nuisance. It’s funny because, one day, he’s feeling up Carole, and the next, he’s thinking about Bobby. I’d call that confusing.
Then he starts talking to his teacher, who was openly gay, and develops a camaraderie and a trust with him. With his help, RV learns to cope with his thoughts and feelings.
A great coming-of-age tale revolving around heredity, identity, sexuality, school, and family. Full of witty commentaries and humorous anecdotes, this book is a good read!
Story had a nice and easy narrative that carries well. The reader is immersed in the rambling, jumbled thoughts of a confused boy’s diary. The character often uses repetition to question matters and drives a point, which, at times, made him seem like a nuisance. It’s funny because, one day, he’s feeling up Carole, and the next, he’s thinking about Bobby. I’d call that confusing.
Then he starts talking to his teacher, who was openly gay, and develops a camaraderie and a trust with him. With his help, RV learns to cope with his thoughts and feelings.
A great coming-of-age tale revolving around heredity, identity, sexuality, school, and family. Full of witty commentaries and humorous anecdotes, this book is a good read!
April 6, 2020
Let me begin by saying that I'm not the intended audience for this book. It's classified as a Young Adult novel - and much as I wish I was, I'm not one anymore.
Let's see! RV is a young teen when the novel begins. He's got a lot going on in his life and in his head all the time. His character was great, constantly bouncing back and forth between emotions and thoughts. It seemed quite authentic to me.! Being a teenager can be a bit overwhelming. RV takes to writing everything down in a journal so that he can try to understand himself.
He's Lithuanian and struggles to find his identity as a result of that. Is he just American? Does he have to do all the "Lith" traditions that his parents insist upon? At the same time as he struggles with his cultural identity, he begins to wonder about his sexual identity.
This was the part at which, for me, I thought the voice slipped a little. I felt as though I was reading a middle-school-aged character rather than a teenager. While RV is a terrific character, he reads as much younger in my mind. That's okay, it's just that I think it may make it more difficult for older teens to connect with this book.
Many of RV's struggles seem "typical" of teenagers and some are unique. He's been raised to be very religious and wonders what "the big guy," thinks of the "gay" feelings that he's been having. for his age, he is quite open with his thoughts and feelings.
It's a good story, biographical, and RV is a great character.
Let's see! RV is a young teen when the novel begins. He's got a lot going on in his life and in his head all the time. His character was great, constantly bouncing back and forth between emotions and thoughts. It seemed quite authentic to me.! Being a teenager can be a bit overwhelming. RV takes to writing everything down in a journal so that he can try to understand himself.
He's Lithuanian and struggles to find his identity as a result of that. Is he just American? Does he have to do all the "Lith" traditions that his parents insist upon? At the same time as he struggles with his cultural identity, he begins to wonder about his sexual identity.
This was the part at which, for me, I thought the voice slipped a little. I felt as though I was reading a middle-school-aged character rather than a teenager. While RV is a terrific character, he reads as much younger in my mind. That's okay, it's just that I think it may make it more difficult for older teens to connect with this book.
Many of RV's struggles seem "typical" of teenagers and some are unique. He's been raised to be very religious and wonders what "the big guy," thinks of the "gay" feelings that he's been having. for his age, he is quite open with his thoughts and feelings.
It's a good story, biographical, and RV is a great character.
June 30, 2021
It is the voice that will grab you first in this one. RV becomes a real person on the first page of this book and you will want to follow him through this year of high school. It's all there, the days when everything seems to be going right at school and at home, the days when everything falls apart, and most days at that age when things just seem confusing. RV's parents are still trying to hang on to their Lithuanian culture and language and their marriage but there are significant strains, RV's brother Ray doesn't get along with their father and is into "something", RV likes Carole but then there are the jocks, especially Bobby and in the background there are some homophobic people attacking gay men like RV's teacher/support/friend Mr. Aniso. The author makes you feel exactly what RV feels, you know you don't have the full picture, you know there is so much more you need and want to know but you just get flashes of it. I cannot wait to see how RV grows over the next three books and find out along with him exactly what is going on in his world.
May 4, 2020
This is a great story for teens who are dealing with defining (or not defining) their sexuality. The start of the book is slow, but it gets better. The way that RV combs through his life with trying to stick to the shadows and not be noticed made my heart ache for him. When he gets closer to Bobby, you can't help but want it to work out. But can RV navigate his feelings (and perhaps mutal feelings back?) from Bobby and his home life. I loved how RV came into his own and stopped trying to just not bring attention to himself.
A great read and I'm so glad it's a series so we will be able to read more of the Pizza Chronicles. Thank you to Ninestar Press for the opportunity to review.
A great read and I'm so glad it's a series so we will be able to read more of the Pizza Chronicles. Thank you to Ninestar Press for the opportunity to review.
April 23, 2020
RV is just trying to survive high school.
He conveys his thoughts in a digital diary.
He's got so much drama to deal with, as do most teenagers.
He's so sweet and caring and he's just looking for a place to fit in.
His drama is just a little more serious.
He's gay but tries dating girls because his family is staunchly Lithuanian and Catholic.
So of course he's dealing with homophobia as well as the stuggles of immigration, cultural differences and racial inequalities.
Overall a wonderful story dealing with the age old issue of finding your place in the world.
He conveys his thoughts in a digital diary.
He's got so much drama to deal with, as do most teenagers.
He's so sweet and caring and he's just looking for a place to fit in.
His drama is just a little more serious.
He's gay but tries dating girls because his family is staunchly Lithuanian and Catholic.
So of course he's dealing with homophobia as well as the stuggles of immigration, cultural differences and racial inequalities.
Overall a wonderful story dealing with the age old issue of finding your place in the world.
Read
April 24, 2020"I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley in return for an honest review"
Sorry I had to DNF this book. The starting of the book was very nice and I personally liked the diary/journal format but this book soon got too slow for me. I really liked it till a point but now it has become too boring. I feel that there is way too many details about RV's daily life, and it feels like just nothing is happening.
Personally I feel that there are a lot of people who will like this book but it is unfortunately not for me.
Sorry I had to DNF this book. The starting of the book was very nice and I personally liked the diary/journal format but this book soon got too slow for me. I really liked it till a point but now it has become too boring. I feel that there is way too many details about RV's daily life, and it feels like just nothing is happening.
Personally I feel that there are a lot of people who will like this book but it is unfortunately not for me.
August 29, 2022
RV is a 14 year old Lithuanian/ American boy. He is going to a Latin school and it’s his first year in high school. He is discovering life, his feelings, and making friends.
This is the first book in the series and sets the tone. You meet RV and his family, his new friends from school mainly Carole a girl he likes and Bobby a boy he likes and Mr Aniso the Latin teacher.
There are many subplots, him making friends, family issues, school issues, life in general. It’s a pretty interesting story.
This is the first book in the series and sets the tone. You meet RV and his family, his new friends from school mainly Carole a girl he likes and Bobby a boy he likes and Mr Aniso the Latin teacher.
There are many subplots, him making friends, family issues, school issues, life in general. It’s a pretty interesting story.
April 29, 2020
Oh! the pangs of growing up and coming to terms
this is a delightful book of RV as a teenager coming to terms with who he is; told in the first person, RV puts all his raw emotions as a teenager out for the world to see how he copes with coming of age--the inner battles, the outer battles, and the battle not waged. It is told with a dollop of wit and humor and touches of sadness; a sure page-turner for all who are teenagers and those who need to understand the inner minds of teenagers
this is a delightful book of RV as a teenager coming to terms with who he is; told in the first person, RV puts all his raw emotions as a teenager out for the world to see how he copes with coming of age--the inner battles, the outer battles, and the battle not waged. It is told with a dollop of wit and humor and touches of sadness; a sure page-turner for all who are teenagers and those who need to understand the inner minds of teenagers
May 28, 2022
This is a book about a 14 year old boy coming to terms with his sexuality and how it is looked at in his culture as he comes from a Catholic family of immigrants. This is a new to me author and I mostly enjoyed the writing style and storyline. I had some issues get through some of it as it seemed to be a lot of information to take in, but in the end it was a really great book and I can't wait to read the next in the series.
June 10, 2021
An interesting read. Maybe for a younger audience. Teenager filled with angst would have liked this better. It was okay. I am not use I would read the second book in the series though.
Barely kept my interest. A book that should have been read in one sitting took five days. So, whiny and really not my style.
Barely kept my interest. A book that should have been read in one sitting took five days. So, whiny and really not my style.
July 9, 2021
This was a sweet young adult novel about a young boy coming to terms with discovering himself.
This was a relatable read and I liked the writing style of the author.
This book had a relatively slow start and it took a while for me to get engaged in the storyline but it picks up towards the middle part of the plot.
I look forward to reading the other installments in this series
This was a relatable read and I liked the writing style of the author.
This book had a relatively slow start and it took a while for me to get engaged in the storyline but it picks up towards the middle part of the plot.
I look forward to reading the other installments in this series
April 8, 2020
This is the first book I've read by this author and I liked it very much, specially the relationship with his teacher. RV is a great kid with all the problems of being a teenager. Can't wait to read the second book
I was given an arc in exchange for an honest review
I was given an arc in exchange for an honest review
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April 29, 2020The main character RV really touched me and brought back memories of my own silly, awkward, wonderful youth. Andy V. Roamer is truly a gifted writer who makes you feel all of the character's emotions. I really enjoyed reading this book and look forward to the sequel!!
April 17, 2020
This was too much of an info-dump. It's styled like diary entries, or that's how I saw it? I had to DNF this book because no matter how many chances I gave it, it was not for me.
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