Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell – review

‘You never know when a young adult contemporary book becomes a survival guide for you’

Fangirl was the very first book I read by Rainbow Rowell. Fangirl is a very self-explanatory title, which basically summarises the book (no spoilers but you must obviously know that). I know that one shouldn’t judge a book by its cover and I didn’t either; I was just very taken-aback by the title of this book. The title was too direct and, after reading the summary at the back, I had this sudden urge to read more about it.

I would say that 80% of the reason why I bought the book was because it was called Fangirl. I am generally attracted to a book or song or anything if I can relate to it by any means; it makes me feel like I have this connection to people and things and makes me realise that I am not alone. Honestly, it is the best feeling ever when you have a similar mind to somebody. Well, I can proudly say that I am a Fangirl, and I would probably not have forgiven myself if I hadn’t bought this book (I have absolutely no regrets). Buying this book not only satisfied my heart but also made me a Fangirl for Rainbow Rowell.

Fangirl is a story of two twin sisters, Wren and Cath, who have grown up without a mother and with a very busy father. Cath is an introvert and very happy to live in her own internet and book world. She admires and loves her sister, who also plays the role of her best friend. Their life together was all rainbows and unicorns until they reluctantly have to come out of their comfort zone because they are moving to college. Both girls have a very different approach to this situation: one of them is open minded and accepting, whereas the other is a bit insecure and not-so interested or impressed by this whole concept. Both girls face real situations which I suppose every Fangirl will face. Not just fangirls but also common people, people who find it difficult to adapt to unknown new surroundings. It is a natural process in a teen’s life. It comes from being a teen and moving into adolescence, along with being successful at it. It is not all as easy as it sounds. I think that everyone suffers from anxiety, social awkwardness, peer pressure and various other issues before actually growing up. Rowell touches many points in this book, which makes it a brilliant work. She tells us that nobody is alone, that there are people who grow up physically and move on from being awkward, but maintain their childish personality, and that this is perfectly understandable and alright. She stands up to the idea of “Age doesn’t define maturity”, which I truly appreciate and look up to.

This book is a must read for anyone who goes through any kind of a hard time. This book will not just interest teens: I suggest that parents of teens who are moving towards adulthood should also read this book, because it generates awareness about normal teenage reactions and responses to many situations. Obviously everybody doesn’t have the same mind, but the general idea of this book teaches a lot of things. It’s a mind of a young girl which many can relate to. So, naturally, there is some truth in this book. You never know when a young adult contemporary book becomes a survival guide for you.

It is explained very easily to readers that change can be good or bad. Either way this book will teach you something you didn’t know, and teens may learn more about themselves or maybe learn more about life going on. It also tells us that it is alright to be ourselves and not to change ourselves for anybody, even if your own sister turns their back on you. Don’t forget that the ultimate goal of life is to be happy: you shouldn’t flush your happiness down the drain to be somebody you are not.

• Buy this book at the Guardian Bookshop
  

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