Scan barcode
caemw's review against another edition
5.0
This book wasn't one of those cliche rich girl falls in love with poor boy kind of books. I hate those. I like the really realistic ones. In this one, they fought for one another. I really liked this book, and if you like John Green and other writers who write like him, I recommend this book.
lisawreading's review against another edition
4.0
I have very mixed feeling about this new YA novel. The characters are well drawn and the set-up is quite interesting and thought-provoking. The idea that even someone with a seemingly perfect life -- the spoiled rich girl -- can have real problems is conveyed sympathetically. But sometimes, the main character's obliviousness to what real poverty means can be a bit much to take.
Kudos to the author for tackling the subjects of privilege and economic challenge. I'm just not sure all the pieces quite fit or that Jess's problems are equivalent somehow to Flynn's family's daily struggle for food and shelter.
Still, the plot is engaging and the characters are well drawn. Even characters who are seemingly harsh or unlikeable have reasons for acting as they do.
For more, check out my review at http://wp.me/p2B4Be-2SM.
Kudos to the author for tackling the subjects of privilege and economic challenge. I'm just not sure all the pieces quite fit or that Jess's problems are equivalent somehow to Flynn's family's daily struggle for food and shelter.
Still, the plot is engaging and the characters are well drawn. Even characters who are seemingly harsh or unlikeable have reasons for acting as they do.
For more, check out my review at http://wp.me/p2B4Be-2SM.
akristinab's review against another edition
3.0
I'm not entirely impressed with this book. The plot was same old, same old of good girl who's spoiled and bad boy who changes her mind about everything. Boring. Moving on. You can find better.
erinarkin20's review
4.0
The Truth About Us by Janet Gurtler was a book I happened across and I have to say I am glad I grabbed it. I don’t usually read a lot of Contemporary but as soon as I started it, I was yanked into Jess and Flynn’s stories and I loved it.
Jess is the girl who appears to have everything going for her. She comes from a wealthy family and to everyone else, her family appears to be just fine. Because of something that happened though, Jess has been doing some things she isn’t necessarily proud of. When she gets caught, her father decides that Jess needs to see how good she really has it and makes her volunteer at a local soup kitchen to give her some perspective.
As Jess dives into her role, she comes face to face with a boy she had a run in with earlier in the week and is immediately drawn to him even though he doesn’t really return her feelings. She also meets Wilf, the old guy who runs the greenhouse. I loved the banter between Jess and Wilf and thought Gurtler did a wonderful job of developing the relationship between these two characters.
Flynn is one of those characters that is tough to pin down. He definitely hasn’t had an easy life and taking a handout isn’t something that is part of his nature. Because of that, he does odd jobs around the facility and when he first sees Jess, he writes her off as the “rich girl” but he quickly learns there is more to Jess and what is really going on with her than a little rebellion. As Flynn and Jess start to become friends, they realize that despite the fact that they care about each other and want to be more than friends, there are other people involved that don’t necessarily feel the same way.
Jess and Flynn definitely hit some bumps and I have to tell you – there was a part with Flynn that made me want to crawl into the book and kick him in the junk…seriously. This image is not a stretch…at all.
One of the things I thought Gurtler did well was showing how Jess’s reactions and interactions with the people that used the soup kitchen changed over time. She grew throughout this story and realized a few things about herself and her family – it was an important piece that had to happen otherwise I think the book would have fallen flat. Jess needed to grow up a bit to see that it is more than just her that was hurting in her family.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and it was a quick read. The characters were well developed and the background stories tied back to who these two were. I thought the backstories added a layer to the book that made it more than just a right side/wrong side of the tracks romance. I am glad I came across this book and if you’re looking for a Contemporary, consider checking this one out!
Thank you to Sourcebooks and Netgalley for the review copy!
Jess is the girl who appears to have everything going for her. She comes from a wealthy family and to everyone else, her family appears to be just fine. Because of something that happened though, Jess has been doing some things she isn’t necessarily proud of. When she gets caught, her father decides that Jess needs to see how good she really has it and makes her volunteer at a local soup kitchen to give her some perspective.
As Jess dives into her role, she comes face to face with a boy she had a run in with earlier in the week and is immediately drawn to him even though he doesn’t really return her feelings. She also meets Wilf, the old guy who runs the greenhouse. I loved the banter between Jess and Wilf and thought Gurtler did a wonderful job of developing the relationship between these two characters.
Flynn is one of those characters that is tough to pin down. He definitely hasn’t had an easy life and taking a handout isn’t something that is part of his nature. Because of that, he does odd jobs around the facility and when he first sees Jess, he writes her off as the “rich girl” but he quickly learns there is more to Jess and what is really going on with her than a little rebellion. As Flynn and Jess start to become friends, they realize that despite the fact that they care about each other and want to be more than friends, there are other people involved that don’t necessarily feel the same way.
Jess and Flynn definitely hit some bumps and I have to tell you – there was a part with Flynn that made me want to crawl into the book and kick him in the junk…seriously. This image is not a stretch…at all.
One of the things I thought Gurtler did well was showing how Jess’s reactions and interactions with the people that used the soup kitchen changed over time. She grew throughout this story and realized a few things about herself and her family – it was an important piece that had to happen otherwise I think the book would have fallen flat. Jess needed to grow up a bit to see that it is more than just her that was hurting in her family.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and it was a quick read. The characters were well developed and the background stories tied back to who these two were. I thought the backstories added a layer to the book that made it more than just a right side/wrong side of the tracks romance. I am glad I came across this book and if you’re looking for a Contemporary, consider checking this one out!
Thank you to Sourcebooks and Netgalley for the review copy!
kbranfield's review
4.0
4.5 stars.
The Truth about Us by Janet Gurtler is the perfect example of why young adult fiction is popular among readers of all ages. The storyline has relevant topics that are handled with sensitivity and a lack of angst. The characters are sympathetic and likeable with real life problems to overcome. There is very little drama which is difficult to accomplish when dealing with teenagers, but since the issues are realistic, there is no need to add extra turmoil. The romance is very sweet and worth fighting for although the odds are stacked against a happily ever after. When all of these elements are combined together, the resulting story is engaging, thought-provoking and incredibly heartwarming.
Jess West used to have a perfect life but for the last couple of years, her family has slowly been falling apart. Her mom is deeply depressed and unable to function. Her father is working long hours and he is frequently out of town on business trips. Her sister spends most of her time at her boyfriend's house. She lost her best friend and to keep her loneliness at bay, Jess has been hanging out with a boy crazy, out of control party girl. Jess has been pushing her boundaries for quite some time and after her father finds up when she has been up to, he gets her a volunteer job at a soup kitchen to keep her out of trouble.
Jess has a few reservations about her volunteer job. She is from a wealthy family and she has little experience with poverty. Working with people who are down on their luck is a little humbling, but it provides her with some much needed insight into the lives of the less fortunate. Her initial misconceptions about the soup kitchen clientele give way to surprising friendships, and eventually, romance. But Jess discovers that not everyone supports their relationship and she learns the hard way that some people are worth fighting for.
The Truth About Us by Janet Gurtler is a beautiful journey of self discovery and healing for Jess, her family and her friends. The introduction of real life, relevant social issues gives the storyline depth and provides an opportunity for the characters to grow through their experiences. The romance aspect of the storyline is understated but crucial to the overall plot. It is a multi-layered and complex story that I highly recommend to readers of all ages.
The Truth about Us by Janet Gurtler is the perfect example of why young adult fiction is popular among readers of all ages. The storyline has relevant topics that are handled with sensitivity and a lack of angst. The characters are sympathetic and likeable with real life problems to overcome. There is very little drama which is difficult to accomplish when dealing with teenagers, but since the issues are realistic, there is no need to add extra turmoil. The romance is very sweet and worth fighting for although the odds are stacked against a happily ever after. When all of these elements are combined together, the resulting story is engaging, thought-provoking and incredibly heartwarming.
Jess West used to have a perfect life but for the last couple of years, her family has slowly been falling apart. Her mom is deeply depressed and unable to function. Her father is working long hours and he is frequently out of town on business trips. Her sister spends most of her time at her boyfriend's house. She lost her best friend and to keep her loneliness at bay, Jess has been hanging out with a boy crazy, out of control party girl. Jess has been pushing her boundaries for quite some time and after her father finds up when she has been up to, he gets her a volunteer job at a soup kitchen to keep her out of trouble.
Jess has a few reservations about her volunteer job. She is from a wealthy family and she has little experience with poverty. Working with people who are down on their luck is a little humbling, but it provides her with some much needed insight into the lives of the less fortunate. Her initial misconceptions about the soup kitchen clientele give way to surprising friendships, and eventually, romance. But Jess discovers that not everyone supports their relationship and she learns the hard way that some people are worth fighting for.
The Truth About Us by Janet Gurtler is a beautiful journey of self discovery and healing for Jess, her family and her friends. The introduction of real life, relevant social issues gives the storyline depth and provides an opportunity for the characters to grow through their experiences. The romance aspect of the storyline is understated but crucial to the overall plot. It is a multi-layered and complex story that I highly recommend to readers of all ages.
tmedwards's review against another edition
4.0
I enjoyed this book, but something annoyed me about it. I felt like Gurtler could have gone so much farther with the story. There was stuff that could have happened that didn't, and then the was conflict with Flynn and Jess tossed in at the very ending that made for a thrown together ending to the book. It annoyed me how she built up this relationship that end the bed never even REALLY happens because of the conflict she tossed in at the third to last chapter then hurriedly fixes to allow the reader to imagine what happens next. I enjoyed the book all the way up until the end. Wilf, a character I liked a lot, just dies abruptly and his death solves Flynn's problems. There was no resolution for Jess and her father, or Jess and Nance. I wish that Jess wouldn't have forgiven Flynn so easily after he ignores her completely for a week then unemotionally cuts ties with her and is seen kissing some random girl a day later. The characters were cute, but I only really felt attached to Kyle and Wilf, sometimes Flynn. I enjoyed the storyline though, and the beginning made up for the ending. I would read more from this author, and just hope that she better develops her endings in other novels of hers. After reading #16 Things I Thought Were True I was a little disappointed by this ending. Also, for a Sourcebooks novel, I am extremely disappointed with all of the editorial errors. They became annoying. Overall I enjoy Gurtler's writing style. She's great with YA emotions and writing even if she did repeatedly say that Flynn was, "wearing the shit out of his jeans."
Also, I called the number in the book (Jess' house number) and it's someone's actual phone number... Poor girl. I'd change my number ASAP.
Also, I called the number in the book (Jess' house number) and it's someone's actual phone number... Poor girl. I'd change my number ASAP.
lazygal's review against another edition
3.0
Not much to say here, except this is a good read for teens looking for romance - there's nothing really unique to make this stand out, but nothing to complain about either. It hits all the usual notes, which will keep fans of the genre happy.
ARC provided by publisher.
ARC provided by publisher.
thepaperreels's review
Jess is the rich girl who is acting out. Flynn is from the wrong side of the tracks. And I'm the reader who doesn't care at all.
I kinda understand Jess. I mean I get it, you have money, you feel like nobody loves you, dysfunctional family-- you really tend to act out. An her self realizations and her desire to grow was admiring. I like that about her. She knows she's messed up and she decided to needs to change.
Now Flynn on the other hand. Oh the hurty feelings!!! Flynn is so complicated, sometimes I wonder if he has the problem of earth in his shoulders.
So tired of guys who doesn't know what he wants. He pulls her then pushes back.
WHAT DUDE?!! WHAT DO YOU REALLY WANT!!!!
Look, I KNOW. He has issues.Please don't assume that life is is easy on me and I'm making fun of Flynn, we all have issues. And I get Flynn. But the way Flynn is coping is so not helping him. Jess of course doesn't get all this because she's more into her romance dilemna. I MEAN HELLO, PRIORITIES!!!! And there's also this thing that Flynn did towards the that is so unbelievable!!!! I can't believe Jess forgave him so fast. It must be ~**true love**~
Janet Gurtler does have a very beautiful way of writing. But as pleasant as that was, my annoyance just keeps popping and my supposed to be swoony feeling didn't show. I still recommend this book. I just think it's not for everybody. I had some issues but there's a chance you might enjoy it more.
I kinda understand Jess. I mean I get it, you have money, you feel like nobody loves you, dysfunctional family-- you really tend to act out. An her self realizations and her desire to grow was admiring. I like that about her. She knows she's messed up and she decided to needs to change.
Now Flynn on the other hand. Oh the hurty feelings!!! Flynn is so complicated, sometimes I wonder if he has the problem of earth in his shoulders.
So tired of guys who doesn't know what he wants. He pulls her then pushes back.
WHAT DUDE?!! WHAT DO YOU REALLY WANT!!!!
Look, I KNOW. He has issues.Please don't assume that life is is easy on me and I'm making fun of Flynn, we all have issues. And I get Flynn. But the way Flynn is coping is so not helping him. Jess of course doesn't get all this because she's more into her romance dilemna. I MEAN HELLO, PRIORITIES!!!! And there's also this thing that Flynn did towards the that is so unbelievable!!!! I can't believe Jess forgave him so fast. It must be ~**true love**~
Janet Gurtler does have a very beautiful way of writing. But as pleasant as that was, my annoyance just keeps popping and my supposed to be swoony feeling didn't show. I still recommend this book. I just think it's not for everybody. I had some issues but there's a chance you might enjoy it more.
caitlin_gabrielle's review
5.0
4.5 stars
Wow ... that ending ... I actually almsot cried
This story was one of those young adult books that truly allow you to see the growth of the main character. Jess does a completely 180 and matured beyond belief. She’s kind, compassionate, and determined af.
I truly give her credit and admire her unwillingness to give up with Flynn.
Wilf - such a cool spunky OKD man who becomes jess’ friend. I was a big fan of his ! He was awesome and so wise
Flynn - oh Flynn .... he was cute and hardworking . I loved the connection he had with Jess and how he looked after his little brother. It was a bit frustrating that at times I feel like he would give up ... meanwhile Jess was DETERMINED and strong willed. He was still amazing and I fell in love with him just as much as Jess !!
Kyle - the cutest little boy ever . His relationship with Jess made my heart melt! It was the best
However , there was something at the end THAY not only made me want to cry for her but made me SO SO MAD !!!! GAH!! I wish the ending had maybe another chapter or so to deal with what happened.
Wow ... that ending ... I actually almsot cried
This story was one of those young adult books that truly allow you to see the growth of the main character. Jess does a completely 180 and matured beyond belief. She’s kind, compassionate, and determined af.
I truly give her credit and admire her unwillingness to give up with Flynn.
Wilf - such a cool spunky OKD man who becomes jess’ friend. I was a big fan of his ! He was awesome and so wise
Flynn - oh Flynn .... he was cute and hardworking . I loved the connection he had with Jess and how he looked after his little brother. It was a bit frustrating that at times I feel like he would give up ... meanwhile Jess was DETERMINED and strong willed. He was still amazing and I fell in love with him just as much as Jess !!
Kyle - the cutest little boy ever . His relationship with Jess made my heart melt! It was the best
However , there was something at the end THAY not only made me want to cry for her but made me SO SO MAD !!!! GAH!! I wish the ending had maybe another chapter or so to deal with what happened.