Cool Like That: A So For Real Novel

Nikki Carter

"Now that she's been accepted into a summer enrichment program in New York City, Gia knows she's going to have the flyest summer ever. Especially since her mom and her annoying stepsister won't be around. And best of all? Her best friend, Ricky, is joining her so they're going to spend the entire summer together. Gia hopes Ricky's finally going to make a move on her, but it seems like Ricky's bent on playing it safe—too safe, as far as Gia's concerned. So when Rashad, a cutie from the summer program, starts to get his flirt on with Gia, she's got a new crush—and Ricky's so not cool with that."

My Take: 

I can probably guess what you are thinking, and the answer is yes, that really is the title of the book.  The absolutely ghastly title of "Cool Like That A So For Real Novel" turned me off just about immediately.  The strained slang that overpopulated the beginning was also a major turnoff.  I think the thing that made me feel like the slang was not authentic, was because the author had teenagers using words that are not necessarily uncommon, just not used under the age of 21.  For example, a teenager (especially one that says "re-darn-diculous" yeah, a direct quote) does not say "I need to select clothing to wear tonight".  Yes I know this is not drastic, but it really lends to an overall inauthentic feel.   I have to say, that I made it through the book, despite my near constant giggle fits throughout.  Surprisingly enough, I enjoyed the characters in this book, despite some of the aggravating writing, I was somewhat invested in them and enjoyed the ending, however abrupt it felt.  Gia felt relatable and her problem was one that a lot of girls face--boy drama.  She handled it pretty well, and with more maturity than you might expect from many teenagers.  This book contained religious references that I felt flowed just fine with the book, unlike the slang, they didn't feel forced at all.  This is another one of those books where I struggle between two different ratings, I think if you are a tween, then maybe this book could be a 4, Borrow from a Friend, but I have to say overall a 5, Don't Even Bother

Do you agree with my review?  Do you think I'm totally off-base?  Either way I'd love to hear from you, be sure to leave a comment and tell me how you feel.

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If this book were a movie it would likely be rated PG for some references to "hooking up", but nothing further.

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