Flashbulb Review | Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell
Bono met his wife in high school, Park says. Set over the course of one school year in 1986, this is the story of two star-crossed misfits—smart enough to know that first love almost never lasts, but brave and desperate enough to try. When Eleanor meets Park, you’ll remember your own first love—and just how hard it pulled you under.
So did Jerry Lee Lewis, Eleanor answers.
I’m not kidding, he says.
You should be, she says, we’re 16.
What about Romeo and Juliet?
Shallow, confused, then dead.
I love you, Park says.
Wherefore art thou, Eleanor answers.
I’m not kidding, he says.
You should be.
Eleanor & Park is a story about two very different people from two very different backgrounds who find love on the school bus. While it has strong overtones of stories like Pushing the Limits, it also has some very unique elements. It’s set in the 80′s which I’ve never seen done in a modern novel. Eleanor is an overweight, highly insecure girl and Park is half-Korean. You don’t often see minority leads or overweight/non-hot heroines. It was refreshing.
I really enjoyed the dual POV in this novel. It was incredible to see how differently these two characters view themselves and each other. The insecurities of each are so raw and make them extremely relateable. The romance between Park and Eleanor is so believable and genuine, you almost forget that it’s not a true story. Miss Rowell captures first love simply and completely.
Where this novel fell short was the pacing. The ending felt very rushed while other parts seemed to drag.
Overall, Eleanor & Park was an enjoyable read. It was unique but also familiar which is a fun combination. Recommended for lovers of Pushing the Limits.
Disclaimer: Not recommended for young teens due to language and some mature content.
Author: Rainbow Rowell Title: Eleanor & Park Published: February 26th, 2013 by St. Martin’s Griffin. Format: 320 pages e-book Website: rainbowrowell.com Source: ARC provided through NetGalley My rating:
Happy Reading!
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This seems like such a cute book. 80′s and minority main characters? Sounds awesome. This has been on my list for quite a while now. Can’t wait to read it.
Awesome! Hope you love it. =)
Oh I adored Pushing the Limits–will have to check this one out! Great review.
I did too! One of my favorites of 2012! Thanks a bunch. Hope you love E & P
I keep hearing the BEST STUFF about this book – I can’t wait to read it now! Awesome review!! I love how you summarized their relationship and the dual narrative…how they view each other/themselves. I love when that’s done right!!
Yes, the voice in this book is really good. Hope you love it! =)
I have this one on order. Hope I like it :/ Thanks for the review.
Don’t get me wrong, it’s a good book. It just didn’t blow me away. =) Hope you enjoy it!