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Fresh by Margot Wood is a hilarious and heartwarming coming-of-age story that follows Elliot, a college freshman, as she navigates the challenges of leaving home and discovering herself. The book explores themes of friendship, romance, self-discovery, and the college experience with a witty and engaging writing style that includes footnotes, multiple choice scenarios, and a relatable protagonist.

If you liked Fresh, here are the top 49 books to read next:

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Showing 1 - 10 of 49 
  1. #1

    She Gets the Girl by Rachael Lippincott, Alyson Derrick
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    'She Gets the Girl' by Rachael Lippincott and Alyson Derrick is a heartwarming tale of two girls, Alex and Molly, navigating their way through friendship and love. The story follows Molly, an introvert with a crush on Cora, and Alex, an easygoing flirt, as they form an unlikely friendship that blossoms into something more. The book beautifully captures the journey of self-discovery, personal growth, and the complexities of relationships during the teenage years. The writing style, filled with humor and authenticity, draws readers into the characters' lives and emotions, making it a captivating and relatable read.


  2. #2
    A&B
    Book 2 in the series:Mechanical Hearts

    A&B - Mechanical Hearts by J.C. Lillis
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    A&B in the series Mechanical Hearts by J.C. Lillis is a contemporary YA novel that delves into themes of art, creativity, and self-discovery. The story follows 18-year-old Barbara Barrie, a musician who idolizes a singer and competes in a reality talent show, only to face rejection. As Barrie navigates her feelings of envy, jealousy, and bitterness, she forms a complicated relationship with her rival, Ava. The book explores how these two artists with different styles come together, learn from each other, and embark on a love-hate business collaboration that evolves into something more exciting. With witty dialogue, hard truths, and ingenious twists, the narrative unfolds to reveal the complexities of relationships, personal growth, and the pursuit of happiness in the face of adversity.

    J.C. Lillis weaves a finely detailed tapestry of a story that is vivid and modern, resonating with readers through relatable characters and intricate storytelling. The plot hooks readers from the start, offering a mix of humor, honesty, and true-to-life experiences. The book stands out for its refreshing and realistic portrayal of contemporary issues, such as envy, creativity, and the complexities of relationships, all set against the backdrop of a competitive reality show and the world of music and art.

    I spring up from the Stools of Peril and stride to the glass double-booth upstage, rattling off reasons why this twist doesn’t suck. Sudden Deathers get an early shot at glory. If I crush it now, it’s...

    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Mechanical Hearts )

  3. #3

    When Harry Met Sally. . . by Nora Ephron
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    'When Harry Met Sally. . .' by Nora Ephron is a screenplay book that closely follows the beloved romantic comedy film. Readers are transported back to the iconic moments of Harry and Sally's evolving relationship, filled with witty dialogue and charming interactions. The book offers a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes creation of the movie, shedding light on the screenplay's development and the nuances of character motivations. Fans of the film will appreciate the opportunity to relive the classic story through the script's familiar and engaging format.

    The book captures the essence of the film through its word-for-word dialogue, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the romantic journey of Harry and Sally. Nora Ephron's writing style shines through in the clever and realistic dialogue, showcasing her talent for crafting memorable characters and humorous moments. As readers flip through the pages, they are reminded of the enduring appeal of 'When Harry Met Sally. . .', a timeless romantic comedy that continues to captivate audiences with its charm and relatable storyline.


  4. #4

    Body Grammar by Jules Ohman
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    Body Grammar by Jules Ohman is a coming-of-age novel set partly in NYC and partly in Oregon. The story revolves around the main character, Lou, who is a young model in NYC navigating her identity, relationships, and traumatic events without the focus being on coming out. The novel explores themes of friendship, self-discovery, and love, with a majority of characters being lesbian or sapphic. The writing style is described as incredible, tender, and sharp, with compelling and insightful exposition that could spark self-reflection.


  5. #5

    Cool for the Summer by Dahlia Adler
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    Lara, the main character in 'Cool for the Summer' by Dahlia Adler, is caught between her long-standing crush on Chase and her unexpected summer romance with Jasmine. The book unfolds in two timelines, showcasing Lara's internal struggle to reconcile her feelings for both individuals. Set in the backdrop of high school drama, the story delves into themes of identity, self-discovery, and the complexities of young love. Through witty dialogue and relatable characters, the author navigates Lara's journey of figuring out her sexuality and making choices that challenge societal norms.

    All things considered, high school’s been pretty good to me. Granted, if ever I get too whiny about anything, my mother will start comparing my woes of not having my own car to her woes of not having ...

  6. #6

    About a Boy by Nick Hornby
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    'About a Boy' by Nick Hornby is a heartwarming tale of an unlikely friendship between 36-year-old Will and 12-year-old Marcus. The book explores how both characters learn valuable life lessons from each other, despite their age differences. Written from different perspectives, the novel captures the voices of the characters brilliantly, creating a story that is both touching and humorous.

    The plot follows the journey of Will, a self-absorbed man-child, and Marcus, a mature beyond his years preteen, as they navigate through life together. Through their interactions, the characters undergo personal growth and discover the importance of relationships, truth, and friendship. The book addresses themes of growing up, self-discovery, and the impact of unexpected connections on one's life.

    People quite often thought Marcus was being funny when he wasn't. He couldn't understand it. Asking his mum whether she'd split up with Roger was a perfectly sensible question, he thought: they'd had ...

  7. #7

    The Lesbiana's Guide to Catholic School by Sonora Reyes
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    'The Lesbiana's Guide to Catholic School' by Sonora Reyes is a heartfelt coming-of-age tale that follows the journey of Yamilet, a Mexican high school student who navigates the challenges of being queer and coming out in a preppy Catholic school environment. The book beautifully captures Yamilet's experiences of struggling with religion, sexuality, and identity while facing the pressures of societal norms and family expectations. Through relatable characters, engaging plot twists, and a fairytale ending, the author weaves a story that resonates with readers on themes of love, self-acceptance, and the courage to embrace one's true self.

    The novel skillfully delves into the dynamics of coming out as a Mexican high schooler, shedding light on the intersectionality of identity, culture, and sexual orientation. Sonora Reyes artfully portrays Yamilet's journey of self-discovery and growth, tackling themes of generational traumas, homophobia, and the importance of embracing one's authenticity in the face of adversity. With a perfect blend of humor, emotion, and relatable experiences, the book offers a compelling narrative that immerses readers in the protagonist's world, evoking laughter, tears, and a sense of empowerment.


  8. #8

    We Play Ourselves by Jen Silverman
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    "We Play Ourselves" by Jen Silverman is a contemporary literary fiction novel that follows a bisexual playwright, Cass, who flees a scandal involving her professional rival and finds herself entangled in the world of theatre and filmmaking in LA. The book delves into themes of art, power, jealousy, bitterness, and acceptance, with a focus on the protagonist's journey of self-discovery and coping with ugly emotions. The narrative is described as a layered and resonant reflection of accepting failure, fears, and anger in order to embrace one's true self.

    The story explores Cass's struggles with jealousy, pettiness, and unhealthy coping mechanisms, all set against the backdrop of the theatre world and the complexities of relationships. It addresses topics such as child sexual abuse, the blurred lines between art and exploitation, and the raw emotions that individuals are not supposed to feel but must confront to find inner peace.

    I exit LAX and the warm air slaps me awake. The first thing I smell is car exhaust. Then, just under it: desert. People are already upset, a traffic cop is shouting at a red sports car and waving her ...

  9. #9

    Sirens & Muses by Antonia Angress
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    'Sirens & Muses' by Antonia Angress follows the lives of four central characters - Louisa, Karina, Preston, and Robert - who are all artists connected in their small world of art school and the art scene. The narrative delves into their relationships, struggles, and growth as artists, exploring themes of art creation, personal growth, and the complexities of the art world. The story transitions from their time in art school to their lives as struggling artists in New York City, capturing the challenges and dynamics of their artistic journeys.

    The writing style of 'Sirens & Muses' is characterized by its multiple points of view, allowing readers to delve equally into the lives and perspectives of the central characters. offers a brooding, tender, and sharp atmosphere that is fitting for a sapphic dark academia novel, with descriptions of art, history, protests, and character relationships that slowly unravel against the backdrop of the art world.


  10. #10

    My Education by Susan Choi
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    'My Education' by Susan Choi is a novel that delves into the complex relationships and desires of its characters. The story follows Regina, a young graduate student who becomes infatuated with her professor's wife, Martha. As Regina pursues Martha recklessly and obsessively, the novel explores themes of love, lust, and self-discovery. The writing style is described as dense and layered, with complex sentences that contrast Regina's reckless behavior with her analytical mind.

    Since arriving the previous week I’d kept hearing about a notorious person, and now as I entered the packed lecture hall my gaze caught on a highly conspicuous man. That’s him I declared inwardly, whi...

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