Friday, August 17, 2012

Review: The Duff by Kody Keplinger

"Seventeen-year-old Bianca Piper is cynical and loyal, and she doesn't think she's the prettiest of her friends by a long shot. She's also way too smart to fall for the charms of man-slut and slimy school hottie Wesley Rush. In fact, Bianca hates him. And when he nicknames her "the Duff," she throws her Coke in his face.
But things aren't so great at home right now, and Bianca is desperate for a distraction. She ends up kissing Wesley. Worse, she likes it. Eager for escape, Bianca throws herself into a closeted enemies-with-benefits relationship with him.
Until it all goes horribly awry. It turns out Wesley isn't such a bad listener, and his life is pretty screwed up, too. Suddenly Bianca realizes with absolute horror that she's falling for the guy she thought she hated more than anyone. And eventually, through this realization, Bianca begins to see how harmful her unhealthy way of dealing with her problems has been, and finds a way to confront them head on."

Title: The Duff
Author: Kody Keplinger
Release Date: June 7, 2011 (PB)
Publisher: Poppy
Pages: 280, Paperback

After reading one of my very good blogger friend's review of THE DUFF, I knew I had to check it out (Ehem, Gianna from Books To Infinity). To my delight, THE DUFF met my expectations and did just that. There was the fun story line and enjoyable characters, as well as your everyday high school drama. Recommended for anyone looking for a quick, entertaining read!

THE DUFF was able to present the reader with a very engaging plot and easy-flowing storyline. I found myself breezing along with hardly any discomfort. Overall very enjoyable. I was surprised that I was indulged in the simple cast of the story!

The characters weren't the best, but they were definitely tolerable enough for me to keep reading. There definitely could have been more depth in each character. I have to say that I can't agree with most of Bianca's actions most of the time, but I see where she gets her motives. For me, Wesley is exactly the type of guy that I would stay away from, and Mr. Toby Tucker was more of my type. ;) Bianca's friends were very supportive of her and I can't help but admit that I would love to be part of their close-knit group!

I also revered the fact that this book acquaints an important lesson, and I think it's something everyone can get out of. It was quite eye-opening for me, actually. Now the only flaw that I have to say for the downgrade is the idea that Kody Keplinger may give to her readers: sex is a good way to escape your troubles. IT'S NOT.

All in all, I was very satisfied with Kody's debut novel, and while I didn't enjoy her sophomore novel as much (SHUT OUT, review here), I will still be anticipating Kody's other works of literature!

Grade: B

Source: Read at B&N :)

1 comment:

  1. I've always been interested in reading this book but never got round to it. I'm glad to hear the plot is engaging and kept you turning the pages but it's a shame the characters lacked depth - that always irks me :/ Books that teach you a lesson are always a bonus but funny how the author seems to convey that sex will help you get out of your troubles. Don't really agree with that either!

    Fab review, Jen ,3

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