Perfect Chemistry

Okay, so when I bought this book I wasn't expecting originality, so I wasn't surprised by all the cliches, but what I was hoping for was a great read, and I got just that. We're introduced to Alex and Brittany, who are from different worlds but have so much in common and such a great attraction towards each other that you can't help but root for them to get together.

I loved the book. It was addictive. I'm looking forward to reading the other books in the series. Elkeles really does know how to grab the readers attention and keep them glued. So glad I picked the book up.

Reader reviewed by Margay Justice

As I read this book, I couldn't help but to feel that it was an updated version of West Side Story without all of the cool songs and dancing. But since I loved that movie, this was not an insult. Indeed, this is West Side Story with the ending I always longed for. I thought the author, Simone Elekeles, did an outstanding job of putting a new spin on the so-opposite-they-should-never-attract story. I really admire the way she wrote the very diverse characters. The voice for each was so authentic and true, I never questioned their believability.

Reader reviewed by Andrea

In this book you see two people who would never in a million year be seen in the same world let alone sit next to each other realize they do have perfect chemistry.Prepare to cry like in any good love story there's hate,lies,sacrifice and happiness. Trust me you will find chemistry between you and this book.

Reader reviewed by tarheel34

what is the deal? why can't two people that want to be together be together? well, i guess it is alot more complicated them i think.
At Farfield High School, o the outskirts of Chicago, everyone knows the south siders and north siders aren't exactly compatible elements. So when head cheerleader Brittney Ellis and gand member Alex Fuentez are forced to be lab partners in chemistry class, the results are bound to be explosive. But neither teen is prepared for the most surprising chemical reaction of all-love. Can they break through the stereotypes and misconceptions that threaten to keep them apart? YOU TELL ME!

Reader reviewed by Megan Howell

A fresh, urban twist on the classic tale of star-crossed lovers. When
Brittany Ellis walks into chemistry class on the first day of senior
year, she has no clue that her carefully created perfect life is
about to unravel before her eyes. Shes forced to be lab partners with
Alex Fuentes, a gang member from the other side of town, and he is
about to threaten everything she's worked so hard forher flawless
reputation, her relationship with her boyfriend, and the secret that
her home life is anything but perfect. Alex is a bad boy and he knows
it. So when he makes a bet with his friends to lure Brittany into his
life, he thinks nothing of it. But soon Alex realizes Brittany is a
real person with real problems, and suddenly the bet he made in
arrogance turns into something much more. In a passionate story about
looking beneath the surface, Simone Elkeles breaks through the
stereotypes and barriers that threaten to keep Brittany and Alex apart.
    This book was amazing. Alex and Brittany were amazingly well
developed characters. Most of the characters are as well. I think a lot
of young adults can relate to this book. No matter where you are, there
is undoubtedly racism around. It's considered weird if you're with
someone outside of your ethnic group. By breaking this barrier, this
book truly becomes close to a modern Romeo and Juliet.

All
the characters reactions are real, which is always a real plus. The
book also shows the 'ugly' side of being perfect in a new light which
is totally unexpected. Most books follow the
"my-perfect-life-really-isn't-perfect-because-my-dad's-a-drunk-plan" or
something similar. Also Elkeles handles a delicate subject -gang life-
in a realistic light that's not over played.

One of my only true
issues with this entire book is Brittany's parents. While the reason
Brittany's life isn't perfect is a hard thing to live with, it
shouldn't destroy a family like it did.

Reader reviewed by Debbie

I really enjoyed this book and the more I read it sort of reminded me
of S.E. Hintons book, The Outsiders.  Alex reminded me of the
character Dallas from The Outsiders if Dallas had ended up having a
relationship with Cherry.   I absolutely loved Alexs character and it
was heartbreaking to see what he had to go through to try and protect
his family and the sacrifices his friends make for him.  Brittanys
character was also touching as you watch her love for her sister and it
was great to see her realize that she did not have to be the perfect
daughter and deny herself happiness.  I havent had any exposure to
gang life and have not read many books about it so the look you get
into the lives of the people who get sucked in and see what might have
been if they had the chance to go straight or leave that life behind is
eye opening.  It breaks the stereotype of what gang bangers are like. 
This was an excellent book that I highly suggest, especially for those
who loved The Outsiders.

Reprinted here with the author's permission.