The Universe Is Expanding and So Am I by Carolyn Mackler -- Review

Title: The Universe Is Expanding and So Am I
Author: Carolyn Mackler 
Pages: 304 
Publishing: May 29th 2018 by Bloomsbury USA Childrens

Synopsis: 

Virginia Shreves’ world implodes again in this long-awaited follow-up to Printz Honoree The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things.

Sixteen-year-old Virginia Shreves’ life is finally back on course: she’s accepted who she is inside and out and is rebuilding her relationship with brother Byron, whose date-rape charge shattered everything.

But just as she adjusts to her new normal, her world turns upside down again. Sparks with boyfriend Froggy fade, her best friend bombshells bad news, and then the police arrest Byron. As Virginia struggles to cope, she meets Nate, an artist with his own baggage. The pair vow not to share personal drama. But secrets have a way of coming out, and theirs could ruin everything.

Just in time for The Earth, My Butt, and Other BIg Round Things’ 15th anniversary, Virginia’s hope-filled story of love, friendship, and the beauty in imperfection continues, by acclaimed author Carolyn Mackler. 

Review: 

I think I feel the same way about this novel as I did the first in this sequel... slightly indifferent. There were lots of things to like, and then there were also a lot of things that I felt were probably not great for younger girls to read. I thought Virginia was a tough and interesting girl, but I also felt like there were times that she needed to stick up for herself and be a little more responsible for her choices. I thought she was a great character with a big heart, but I just kept hoping she would stand up for herself to her family a little more. 

All in all, it was a cute read. It was entertaining and kept me flipping pages until the end, but I honestly just kept feeling really uncomfortable and I felt sorry for all of the characters in the book. It was just a little sad for me and not my favorite read. Thank you to Bloomsbury Children's Books and NetGalley for sharing this novel in exchange for an honest review. 

Rating 2.5/5