Kate in Waiting

Becky Albertalli

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love triangle dynamics

high school crushes

engaging first person narrative

lgbtq representation

complex friendships

musical theatre setting

light hearted ya romance

fast paced engagement

realistic feelings and humor

teenage relationship complexities

georgia contemporary high school

relatable main character

fun dialogue

'Kate in Waiting' by Becky Albertalli is a young adult romantic comedy that follows the story of Kate, a high school student who is best friends with Anderson and is hoping to get a lead role in her school musical. The book explores themes of friendship, high school crushes, and the complexities of relationships, all set against the backdrop of musical theatre. As the story progresses, Kate and Anderson find themselves falling for the same boy, leading to a love triangle that tests their friendship. The writing style is described as engaging, with realistic feelings, fun dialogue, and a focus on LGBTQ representation, making it an enjoyable read for fans of theatre and light-hearted YA romance.

Characters:

The characters are diverse and rounded, with Kate's relatable voice and humor at the forefront, alongside complex dynamics in friendships.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is characterized by its directness and humor, providing readers with a relatable and engaging first-person narrative.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot focuses on the complexities of friendships and crushes among high school students, particularly involving a shared love interest in the context of a musical.

Setting:

The setting is a contemporary high school in Georgia, intertwined with the dynamics of theatre and teenage relationships.

Pacing:

The pacing is generally fast and engaging, though there are some slower sections that may challenge the reader's interest.

Because Anderson Walker knows I need seven hours of sleep to not be a zombie demon on Xanax, and yet. And yet! This mess of a boy let himself into my house, into my room, and turned on my lights at fi...

Notes:

The main character, Kate, shares her high school experience filled with humor and self-deprecating thoughts.

The book showcases diverse characters across the LGBTQIAP spectrum and includes racial diversity.

A significant part of the plot revolves around a school musical called Once Upon a Mattress.

Kate and her best friend Anderson have 'communal crushes' on unattainable guys.

Friendship plays a critical role in the story, with both sweet and complicated dynamics between characters.

The book addresses the struggles of communication in friendships and relationships.

The narrative touches on stereotypes about close friendships between men and women.

Quotes from the book highlight relatable teen experiences and insecurities.

Some readers found the use of derogatory slurs uncomfortable, noting a missed chance for challenges against them.

The themes of awkward crushes and evolving emotions are relatable and resonant for teen readers.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Triggers or content warnings include bullying, codependence issues, discussions of divorce, homophobia, online shaming mentioned, and slut-shaming slurs.

Has Romance?

Yes, there is a significant romantic element in Kate in Waiting, featuring various romantic entanglements and explorations of young love.

From The Publisher:

From #1 New York Times bestselling author and rom-com queen Becky Albertalli comes a buoyant new novel about daring to step out of the shadows and into the spotlight in love, life, and, yes, theater.

Contrary to popular belief, best friends Kate Garfield and Anderson Walker are not codependent. Carpooling to and from theater rehearsals? Environmentally sound and efficient. Consulting each other on every single life decision? Basic good judgment. Pining for the same guys from afar? Shared crushes are more fun anyway.

But when Kate and Andy's latest long-distance crush shows up at their school, everything goes off-script. Matt Olsson is talented and sweet, and Kate likes him. She really likes him. The only problem? So does Anderson.

Turns out, communal crushes aren't so fun when real feelings are involved. This one might even bring the curtains down on Kate and Anderson's friendship.

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