After an entire semester of reading “serious” novels that almost led to an existential crisis, I decided this winter break would be spent reading books that bring a little joy into my life. Reading more is one of the most popular New Year’s Resolutions, along with working out and dieting. Unlike dieting, reading is actually fun and enjoyable. My most recent read is The Upside of Falling by Alex Light. It was a quick read (just under 300 pages) and checked off every box, making it the perfect cheesy young adult fiction book. Small town? Check. The worlds of two polar opposite love interests colliding? Check. What sets Light’s novel apart from others on the market is her approach to seemingly taboo discussions involving family dynamics and the imperfect couple.
We follow the life of Becca, a senior in high school who was raised by an only mother after her father stepped out on them 5 years prior. Having witnessed the messy divorce of her parents, she declares that love is something that only exists in the novels. Instead of making herself vulnerable to heartbreak, she chooses to live vicariously through fictional characters. One day in English class, Becca boldly declares her pessimistic views on love during a discussion about the ultimate star-crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet. Her ex-best friend, Jenny, calls her out by saying that only those who have been in love can comment on whether love is worth dying for, leaving Becca embarrassed and humiliated.
Brett, a superstar on the football field, a good student in the classroom, and the son of high school sweethearts, has it all. Of course, he still needs one key component. Because of his busy schedule and laser-focused goals, Brett has yet to seek out love. After overhearing Jenny tease Becca for her choice of fictional love over real love, Brett steps in because he spots a perfect opportunity for both of them. Brett decides to be Becca's fake boyfriend to appease his father’s expectations of him and help Becca out, so she is no longer seen as the heartless bookworm who never lets anyone in.
In theory, this sounds like a win-win situation. Of course, life isn’t so simple. Their fake relationship goes to show that even those who seem to have a perfect life on the outside may just be putting up an act. Becca also quickly learns that the most well-sought-after boy in school may not live a fairytale life after all. Most importantly, Brett and Becca teach each other that adult relationships, as well as high school relationships, are complex and not always perfect. Unlike novels, there won't always be a perfect ending, but isn't that the beauty of real love?
Overall, The Upside of Falling is a “read in one day” type of book because of its fast-paced plot and likable characters. This book gets a rating of 4/5 Charming Chatter crowns. While a seemingly familiar concept, I certainly appreciated the author’s reworking of the classic opposites attract love trope. If you want a light-hearted read that tugs at your bookworm heartstrings, definitely pick up The Upside of Falling in 2023.
more book talks please!