Review Detail

Confessions of an Angry Girl does read fairly young since the main character, Rose, is only 14, but I found that I really enjoyed her narrative. Rose’s life is currently a mess due to some real issues and superficial ones. Her father just died in a horrific way, her brother moved away, her mom is distant, her best friend is obsessed with the idea of losing her virginity, she’s starting high school where she’s somewhat of an outcast, and she has a crush on a Junior with an evil cheerleading girlfriend. I’d definitely say she’s justified in her anger at life!

Rose isn’t as outwardly angry as I’d assume based on the title. She mostly holds it in and makes plenty of remarks about her surroundings to herself, with the occasional outburst. She’s a smart girl (I love how the chapter titles are big words plus their definition), but she’s having trouble navigating being a teenager. I think this is something that everyone can identify with, even if their situation isn’t quite like Rose’s. I started high school at 12, so I definitely know what feeling like a freak is like!

There were times when I felt like Rose acted a little too young for her age. Not necessarily being immature, although she does have those moments, but sometimes her reactions made her seem closer to 10 years old than 14. Especially when it came to sex. I’m not saying she should be all for going all the way if she’s not ready, but her thought on the subject was basically “icky.” I don’t know, she just seemed too sheltered on the subject, I guess. Sex does have a prominent role in this book, so just be aware of that. I liked how it was shown in a positive light though, and not just preaching “don’t have sex, ’cause you will get pregnant, and die!”

Anyway, the story ended up taking a darker, more serious road than I was expecting. Sure, Rose’s freshman year is packed full of awkward moments, but there’s plenty of emotional ups and downs too. The ended was completely unexpected though, and Regina must be one of nastiest teen villains ever! Overall, Confessions of an Angry Girl was a very enjoyable read. I was hooked from the very beginning, and I can’t wait to see what sophomore year brings for Rose.