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Imogen, Obviously

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Imogen, Obviously by Becky Albertalli is a heartwarming story about Imogen, a people pleaser who visits her best friend at college and unexpectedly finds herself in a new queer space. As her friend lies about Imogen's past, claiming she is an ex-girlfriend, Imogen questions her own identity and struggles to navigate her place in this new environment. The book tackles themes of comphet issues, queer insecurities, and the importance of self-acceptance, all while maintaining a humorous and observant writing style that keeps readers engaged from the very beginning.

Imogen's journey of self-discovery is beautifully portrayed through witty dialogue and relatable characters. The book explores the complexities of belonging in queer spaces, the struggles of coming out, and the significance of accepting oneself without conforming to labels. Albertalli skillfully weaves together a story that captures the essence of identity, friendship, and self-empowerment, making it a compelling read for anyone seeking a heartfelt and humorous exploration of queer themes.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, portraying a range of identities and experiences, with Imogen being a particularly relatable and kind protagonist.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is characterized by humor, clever dialogue, and incorporates modern communication methods like text messages to enrich the narrative.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot centers around a high school girl confronting her sexual identity while visiting her friend at college, leading her to question her previously held beliefs about herself.

Setting:

The setting is primarily a college atmosphere, creating a backdrop for exploring new social environments and relationships.

Pacing:

The pacing is steady, balanced with moments of humor and character development that keep the reader engaged.

Notes:

The main character, Imogen, is a high school senior visiting her best friend at college.
Imogen questions her sexuality when her friend lies about her past, saying they were ex-girlfriends.
The story explores themes of self-identity and sexuality, particularly bisexuality.
It contains low spice level, focusing mainly on kissing.
The author, Becky Albertalli, is known for her previous successful works like 'Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda'.
Text messages are used creatively in the narrative to enhance storytelling.
Imogen is portrayed as a kind ally to the LGBTQ+ community, wrestling with her own identity.
The book discusses comphet (compulsory heterosexuality) and biphobia in a nuanced way.
It's recognized for its humor and engaging characters, making it relatable for readers.
Readers appreciate the representation of different identities within the LGBTQ+ spectrum.

Has Romance?

There is a medium level of romance, focusing on the development of feelings between Imogen and Tessa.

From The Publisher:

A New York Times and Indie bestseller!

With humor and insight, #1 New York Times bestseller Becky Albertalli explores the nuances of sexuality, identity, and friendship in this timely new novel.

Imogen Scott may be hopelessly heterosexual, but she's got the World's Greatest Ally title locked down.

She's never missed a Pride Alliance meeting. She knows more about queer media discourse than her very queer little sister. She even has two queer best friends. There's Gretchen, a fellow high school senior, who helps keep Imogen's biases in check. And then there's Lili-newly out and newly thriving with a cool new squad of queer college friends.

Imogen's thrilled for Lili. Any ally would be. And now that she's finally visiting Lili on campus, she's bringing her ally A game. Any support Lili needs, Imogen's all in.

Even if that means bending the truth, just a little.

Like when Lili drops a tiny queer bombshell: she's told all her college friends that Imogen and Lili used to date. And none of them know that Imogen is a raging hetero-not even Lili's best friend, Tessa.

Of course, the more time Imogen spends with chaotic, freckle-faced Tessa, the more she starts to wonder if her truth was ever all that straight to begin with. . .

Ratings (7)

Incredible (2)
Loved It (2)
It Was OK (3)

Reader Stats (16):

Read It (8)
Want To Read (7)
Not Interested (1)
 
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