Prep

Curtis Sittenfeld's novel, 'Prep,' is a funny, endearing coming-of-age story of a young girl. It is brilliantly written and is a perfect read for teens.

'Prep' is a raw and honest tale about adolescence. However, this novel goes beyond that as well. It truly explores the social class conflict in America thoroughly.

'Prep' revolves around a young lower middle class girl from the Midwest named Lee Fiora. After getting a scholarship, she begins to attend a private, boarding prep school in Massachusetts called Ault. The novel tells the story of her four years at this prep school. Initially, she desperately attempts to fit in, and miserably fails. Surrounded by girls who pop their collars, play lacrosse, and spend their summers in Nantucket, Lee can't seem to find her place. However, soon she develops a few new friendships and tries to find her place in the school and more importantly, the social scene. Even though Lee no longer feels like an outsider by the end of the year, an unexpected turn of events ruins her well-shaped identity within the school.

Lee encounters hardships with her teachers, her friends, and a boy she's had a crush on for a long time. She also undergoes obstacles with her parents and the rest of the community.

While reading the many things that Lee experiences, the reader really begins to feel for and connect with her. Much of what she encounters is easily relatable.

In addition, much like other coming-of-age stories, 'Prep' explores intellectual themes such as class, race, sex, and gender mixed with attempting to go through adolescence.

If you've ever been in high school or had your heart broken or felt like an outsider, 'Prep' is the book for you.