(2) YA Illustrated by Jim Tierney. Teen readers of Rowell's (Eleanor & Park, rev. 5/13; Fangirl, rev. 11/13) first short-story collection will relish spending time with her nine distinct narratives about love (four previously published). The author taps into her literary sweet spot of complex and memorable romance, including a friendship that evolves over multiple New Year's Eves; a Star Wars movie premiere that brings two teens together; a college breakup healed by mixtapes from an unlikely source; and an invitation to a school dance that changes everything. New beginnings and longstanding relationships are staples, as are wintertime, Christmas, and Rowell's home state of Nebraska, but variety in plot and characterization keep pages turning. These riveting character studies (including one of Simon and Baz from Carry On, rev. 1/16) often lead to truthful and profound conversations; within this mix of realism and fantasy (including the pandemic, a contemporary fairy tale, and a bit of metafiction), Rowell always addresses how love--in its many forms--is a fundamental aspect of life. Happy endings are in no way guaranteed (though they're often implied), but every tale concludes with some degree of connection while leaving room for contemplation about what might happen next. There is a mauve and teal color palette in the text's fonts, in scene-setting full-page illustrations at the beginning of each story, and in occasional spot art throughout.

Reviewer: Cynthia K. Ritter | Horn Book Magazine Issue: January, 2023

(1) YA Illustrated by Faith Erin Hicks. Color by Sarah Stern. High-school seniors Josiah (earnest, insecure) and Deja (extroverted, charming) have worked together at a theme park–like pumpkin patch for three years. It's their final shift, and Deja helps Josiah pursue his crush: Fudge Shoppe Girl. It becomes gradually clear that the friendship could blossom into something more. Rowell's dialogue is sharp and punchy; Hicks's panel illustrations expertly capture the lovable main characters and the entertaining particulars of this autumnal setting.

Reviewer: Jonathan Hunt | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2019

(2) YA In this Fangirl companion novel, Simon Snow, the most powerful mage in centuries, uncovers secrets that call into question his beliefs about good and evil. He also realizes that his obsession with his probably-a-vampire roommate Baz may not be purely antagonistic. The novel is longer than it needs to be--just kiss already, Simon and Baz--but there's much to enjoy along the way.

Reviewer: Shoshana Flax | Horn Book Magazine Issue: January, 2016

(2) YA Change-resistant college freshman Cather holes up in her dorm room, writing fantasy fanfiction. But as the year progresses, she is pushed outside her comfort zone by her snarky roommate, Reagan; by Levi, Reagan's ex-boyfriend (and eventually Cath's first love interest); and by her manic but well-meaning father. Rowell transitions seamlessly between Cath's strong interior voice and clever dialogue in this sophisticated coming-of-age novel.

Reviewer: Cynthia K. Ritter | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2013

(1) YA It's the start of a new school year in 1986 Omaha when sophomores Eleanor and Park meet on the bus. She's an ostracized "big girl"; he's a skinny half-Korean townie who tries to stay out of the spotlight. Their slowly evolving relationship is life-changing for them both. Rowell imbues the novel with rich character development for a heart-wrenching portrayal of imperfect but unforgettable love.

Reviewer: Cynthia K. Ritter | Horn Book Magazine Issue: May, 2013