When Mallory’s boyfriend, Jeremy, cheats on her with an online girlfriend, Mallory decides the best way to de-Jeremy her life is to de-modernize things too. Inspired by a list of goals her grandmother made in1962, Mallory swears off technology and returns to a simpler time (when boyfriends couldn’t cheat with computer avatars). The List:
1. Run for pep club secretary
2. Host a fancy dinner party/soiree
3. Sew a dress for Homecoming
4. Find a steady
5. Do something dangerous
But simple proves to be crazy-complicated, and the details of the past begin to change Mallory’s present. Add in a too-busy grandmother, a sassy sister, and the cute pep-club president–who just happens to be her ex’s cousin–and soon Mallory begins to wonder if going vintage is going too far.
(Summary from GoodReads)
I had been meaning to try out Lindsey Leavitt’s writing for quite some time. Although I already own and , both of which I have not read, I decided to try out Going Vintage. Going Vintage showcases Leavitt’s solid writing and provides a fun, quirky concept.
In Going Vintage, we get to read all about the ups and downs of Mallory giving up technology and getting over her ex-boyfriend. Our society is big on talking about screen time, how young kids today acquire cell phones, etc. Leavitt did a great job of portraying the fact that while many teenagers probably do have a bit too much technology in their lives, it’s also something they need in order to function in academic, extra curricular, and social capacities.
The romantic plotline in Going Vintage was sweet. Mallory met someone interesting shortly after her break-up, and I liked the love interest. Leavitt’s characters were all well written, although I didn’t find any of them especially likable.
My one issue with Going Vintage was the ending. I felt like Mallory went in a few circles with her ex. I also didn’t think the storyline with the new love interest felt fitting.
Leavitt’s books will appeal to readers who seek light and quirky contemporaries. I wouldn’t list Going Vintage as a stand-out-oh-my-gosh-you-HAVE-to-read-this book, but it’s solid writing and something I’d push on readers who had already read more obvious titles. She’s an author I’d be content to test out again, and thankfully I’ll have the opportunity to do so.
Disclosure: I received a digital copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. Thank you!
Disclosure: I received a digital copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. Thank you!
My favorite Leavitt is Sean Griswold's Head but this was still a pretty cute read. I especially loved her family.
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