Review by Sofia O.

Genre: Teen romance (with a science fiction element to it)

Brief synopsis: This unique story follows the journeys of Barrett and Miles, two incoming college freshmen of divergent backgrounds who are pulled together in a time loop. The novel does not delve materially into the reasons for why and how they get caught up in the repetition of their first school day (very similar to the classic movie, Groundhog Day), and is more a coming of age story about two people discovering who they truly are and learning to love and trust each other. While the first third of the book proceeds slowly, once the characters begin to work together to address their predicament (including deciding to take trips and do outrageous activities each 24 hours, such as commandeering an ice cream truck and getting crazy tattoos), a beautiful and deep narrative emerges. The story puts a spotlight on the fact that everyone “hides” behind a facade and much can be learned by paying attention to the details all around us. It also highlights how cruel and lonely the high school experience can be, as Barrett is the victim of bullying and a vicious deception her senior year. To overcome, Barrett must learn to face her past, and not simply bury it, while Miles must come to embrace his own dreams.

Recommendation: While the first few chapters were a bit slow, by the second third of the novel, I was very much vested in Barrett and Mile’s relationship and unusual dilemma. I would recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys quirky romances and coming of age stories.

Rating: 8