Do You Ever Wish Life Were a Movie?
When I first stumbled upon If We Were a Movie by Zakiya N. Jamal, I was instantly drawn in by its charming cover and intriguing premise. As a lover of young adult fiction with a penchant for sapphic romance, I knew I had to dive in. While my final rating hovers at a rounded-down 2.5/5, this book provided a delightful diversion that left me both smitten and a bit disappointed.
A Dance of Frenemies and Bonding
The novel follows Rochelle, an intelligent yet introverted protagonist whose aspirations of attending Wharton become the driving force behind her story. Her journey intertwines with Amira, a sassy and snarky fellow student who flip-flops from their childhood friendship to a begrudging rivalry, before inevitably landing in the realm of love. The "frenemies to lovers" trope is executed whimsically here, with witty banter providing both humor and relatability. I found Rochelle’s internal struggles particularly compelling; watching her rationalize her feelings offered a realistic touch that resonated with me.
Amira, however, is the standout for me. Her passion for theater and fierce determination made her feel vibrant and real. The juxtaposition of Rochelle’s rational mind against Amira’s spirited nature created a delightful tension, turning every interaction into an entertaining back-and-forth. Their chemistry was undeniable, and the slice-of-life moments around the theater truly brought their love story to life.
Side Characters Steal the Spotlight
The side characters? Absolutely a delight! From the goth kid to the overachiever, each played their trope flawlessly, creating a colorful backdrop that made the theater of Horizon feel alive. I particularly loved Kerry, who had a spark of vivacity that I wish I could have in my own life! The group dynamics were infectious and reminiscent of the messy, chaotic nature of friendships in high school.
However, the characters’ adherence to their tropes was a double-edged sword. While entertaining at first, I craved deeper development and complexity. The potential for growth felt dampened by their one-dimensionality, which left me yearning for more from them, especially as I became attached.
A Pacing Problem
As much as I enjoyed the earnest banter and heartfelt moments, the plot lost steam in spots. At one point, Rochelle deduces key plot elements too early, robbing the narrative of suspense. A few unexpected twists could have elevated the tension and kept me guessing. Glory’s presence in the story was also a drag; her role felt cumbersome, affecting the natural flow of events in the high school environment that was otherwise so vibrant.
Final Musings
Ultimately, If We Were a Movie is a lighthearted, enjoyable romp through the complexities of adolescence and first love. While I grappled with its pacing and character depth—offering a 2.75/5 rating—I still found joy in Rochelle and Amira’s journey. It’s a book that may resonate with anyone looking for a fun read sprinkled with heart and humor.
To fellow readers eager for a youthful, light escape—mark April 22, 2025, on your calendar! Despite its shortcomings, this book is worth a spot on your TBR, especially if you’re a fan of coming-of-age tales that embrace the sweet awkwardness of youth. Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC, and happy reading to all!