Review: Dash & Lily's Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn & David Levithan!

Synopsis:
“I’ve left some clues for you. If you want them, turn the page. If you don’t, put the book back on the shelf, please.” So begins the latest whirlwind romance from the New York Times bestselling authors of Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist. Lily has left a red notebook full of challenges on a favorite bookstore shelf, waiting for just the right guy to come along and accept its dares. But is Dash that right guy? Or are Dash and Lily only destined to trade dares, dreams, and desires in the notebook they pass back and forth at locations across New York? Could their in-person selves possibly connect as well as their notebook versions? Or will they be a comic mismatch of disastrous proportions? Rachel Cohn and David Levithan have written a love story that will have readers perusing bookstore shelves, looking and longing for a love (and a red notebook) of their own.

My thoughts:

To be completely honest, the first time I saw this book I thought 'Oh sweet baby Jesus, are you Sirius? There's a friggin' heart on the 'Walk'/'Don't Walk' sign. Really?' I was not impressed by the cover that seemed to depict a tale of furry bunnies chasing rainbows across sunshine island. Then I saw that it was written by Rachel Cohn & David Levithan and had to buy it. I sort of hero worshipped David Levithan for a few months and even met him once-and yes I've got pictures to prove it. So of course I needed to find a bench/couch/chair/any open space to sit down and crack open what was sure to be fantastic.

I'm happy to report that this story went above and beyond my expectations. After Dash finds Lily's red Moleskine sticking out of of one of the many stacks in The Strand, both of their holiday breaks become much more interesting. At first both characters seem a bit timid and give each other small tasks to complete in order to get the notebook back, but soon they're pouring every thought into the notebook they continuously pass back and forth. Everything they want to say goes in. No censors.

The notebook acts as a middle man between the two, and it's very interesting the things that are hashed out that would never be said face to face. I loved it. Guh. And the things they write:

I want that. The getting younger with each step, because of anticipation, in hope and belief.

Fanfriggin'tastic.

In a more book reviewy*  direction, the plot is paced fantastically. Just the right amount of anticipation and waiting for things to happen. The supporting cast is great-especially Lily's brother Langston, who is just plain fabulous-and play into the story in surprising ways.

Basically...

Pick it up. Dash & Lily's Book of Dares might not be a YA read for all, but I highly suggest checking it out next time you're at your library.

*Yurp. Couldn't think of anything else. *shrug*

p.s. I know this review bites, but I'm still trying to get back in the swing of things, ya know?