Review of Tell Me Three Things by Julie Buxbaum
When I first stumbled upon Tell Me Three Things, I was immediately drawn in by its intriguing premise—a story about navigating the treacherous waters of high school while grappling with profound personal loss. As someone who has always found solace in YA novels during turbulent times, I was eager to dive into Julie Buxbaum’s heartfelt narrative. And wow, it did not disappoint!
The story centers around Jessie, who, in a whirlwind of life changes, finds herself uprooted from Chicago to Los Angeles after her mother’s death and her father’s quick remarriage. Talk about a dramatic high school debut! Jessie’s journey is both relatable and poignant, capturing the essence of feeling like an outsider in a new environment. Her struggle gives voice to the complexities of grief and the search for belonging, all underscored by that classic teenage yearning for connection.
One of the standout elements is the mysterious Someone/Nobody (SN), who reaches out to Jessie via email. This digital friendship adds a layer of intrigue, pulling readers deeper into the narrative as we ponder SN’s identity. Is he her potential crush or just a distant ally? Each interaction is laced with a comedic wit and a warm undertone, making their exchange feel incredibly genuine. Buxbaum’s ability to blend humor with the weight of tragedy is nothing short of masterful, giving Jessie’s story a real sense of balance between the light and dark moments we all experience.
Buxbaum’s writing style is refreshing and fluid, keeping the pacing brisk yet meaningful. I found myself turning pages rapidly, eagerly anticipating Jessie’s next move—both in her everyday life and her budding email relationship. The interspersing of texts and emails not only brings a modern relevance but also makes Jessie’s emotional highs and lows hit even harder. It’s immersive and relatable for anyone who has used technology to connect during trying times.
One quote that resonated deeply with me was when Jessie muses, "Sometimes you have to be the one to tell your own story." This sentiment is so powerful; it encapsulates Jessie’s journey from feeling voiceless to asserting her identity amidst chaos.
Tell Me Three Things is more than just a teen love story; it’s an exploration of vulnerability, identity, and the courage it takes to open oneself to new connections. Buxbaum’s narrative gifts readers a sense of hope, showing that even in the aftermath of profound loss, friendship and love can bloom once again.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who has navigated the tricky waters of adolescence—or frankly, anyone who appreciates a beautifully told story about the human experience. Its themes of loss and renewal are universal, making Jessie’s journey one that’s sure to resonate with readers of all ages. Whether you’re a fan of contemporary romance or just looking for a heartfelt read, Tell Me Three Things is definitely one to add to your reading list—you might just find a part of your own story reflected in its pages.