Review Detail

Reader reviewed by Gaby B

Smart. Witty. Cute. There are so many words to describe how fabulous
David Levithan and Rachel Cohns latest book, Dash and Lilys Book of
Dares. I find that in most of young adult literature, there are many
clichéd stereotypes of what teenagers are like. What makes Dash and
Lily such a gem is that it doesnt fall for the clichés of adolescent
life; it gives you two very unique and lovable characters mixed in an
interesting plot.

Set during Christmastime in New York City, we first meet Dash. Dash
is a fairly serious (and snarly) 16 year old boy. In fact, he hardly
seems or acts like a teenager at all. You can instantly tell how
intelligent he is; its hard not to be intimidated by his vocabulary. He
is very wordy, but that is mostly because he loves everything about
words and books. Its then no surprise that he stumbles upon Lilys red
moleskin notebook at a bookstore. Intrigued by the challenges that Lily
dares him to do, he follows through and leaves more dares for her to do.
Each chapter switches perspectives between Dash and Lily. (Levithan
wrote Dashs chapters and Cohn wrote Lilys.) When we meet Lily, she
couldnt seem more opposite than the snarly Dash. Shes lively, hopeful,
and a little weird. In my opinion, her weirdness adds to her charm. As
they exchange messages and dares (without ever meeting), they begin to
learn more about themselves and each other.

Levithan and Cohn write some of the best characters in young adult
literature. Most of you will probably be familiar with their first book
together, Nick and Norahs Infinite Playlist. Expect the same kind of
formula in this book: the run-around of New York City, the offbeat but
hilarious side characters, the undeniable wit and charm of the dialogue.
And like Nick & Norah, this book is already in the works to
become a film! Lena Dunham (Shes getting a lot of buzz for her indie
movie, Tiny Furniture.) is set to write and direct the flick.

Its really hard not to love this book. I laughed aloud so many
times. (Everyone needs a friend like Boomer.) Its a wonderful ride and
perfect for the holiday season. Its great for anyone at any age. The
book isnt dumbed down to typical teenage lingo; Dash and Lily are
very articulate like many other real-life teenagers I know. This is
definitely not a story to pass up. (PS: I know youre not supposed to
judge a book by its cover, but the cover for this book is one of my
favorites. Kudos to the cover designer!)

Reprinted here with author's permission. Original: http://www.theyoungfolks.com/?p=501