Title: Isla and the Happily Ever After
Author: Stephanie Perkins
First published August 14, 2014
339 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780525425632 (ISBN10: 0525425632)
Rating: 4.01
Overview
In Stephanie Perkins’ latest novel, Isla and the Happily Ever After, we follow the romantic journey of Isla, a hopeless romantic who has been in love with Josh, an introspective cartoonist, since their first year at the School of America in Paris. After a chance encounter in Manhattan, Isla finds herself closer to her crush than ever before.
However, as they begin their senior year back in France, Isla and Josh must face the challenges that every young couple encounters, including family drama, uncertainty about their college futures, and the possibility of being apart. With cameos from beloved characters Anna, Étienne, Lola, and Cricket, this sweet and sexy story of true love takes place in the stunning backdrops of New York City, Paris, and Barcelona.
Will Isla and Josh’s love endure the test of time, or will they be forced to say goodbye? Find out in this swoonworthy novel that marks the conclusion of Stephanie Perkins’ beloved series.
Editoral Review
Stephanie Perkins’ Isla and the Happily Ever After is a contemporary young adult romance novel that was first published on August 14, 2014. Perkins is also the author of other popular novels in the genre, including Anna and the French Kiss and Lola and the Boy Next Door.
This book follows the story of two teenagers, Isla and Josh, as they navigate their last year at a prestigious high school in Paris, and face the challenges of falling in love amidst the stress of academic and personal pressures. Perkins excels at crafting vivacious, distinct characters, and Isla and Josh are no exceptions.
Isla is a thoughtful, artistic girl who has been in love with Josh for years. Josh, on the other hand, is an aloof boy with a troubled past who is trying to keep himself together as he faces the pressures of his dreams and the future.
The book explores the struggles of an intense and passionate first love, with a backdrop of the beautiful and historic streets of Paris. The book delves into themes of self-discovery, self-acceptance, and coping with the pressures of life.
It explores the struggles of the characters as they try to define themselves in the face of societal and familial expectations. Perkins writes with an easy-going and emotive style that makes the book a quick and enjoyable read.
Her descriptions of Paris and its beauty help to transport the reader to the heart of the city and experience it through Isla’s and Josh’s eyes. The main strength of the book lies in its character development.
Perkins skillfully crafts the characters into complex, empathetic individuals that the reader can relate to and root for. Their challenges and growth are presented in a compelling and realistic way, such that the reader is fully invested in their journey by the end of the book.
However, the pacing of the book felt rushed at times. The storyline jumps from one moment to another, and some of the pivotal moments feel underdeveloped or glossed over.
The supporting characters are also not as fleshed out as the two protagonists, which can leave the reader feeling disconnected to the overall story. Despite its flaws, Isla and the Happily Ever After is a sweet and enjoyable read that is perfect for fans of contemporary young adult romance.
It touches on important themes that are relevant today – such as coming of age, identity, and mental health – while also showcasing the beauty of Paris. Perkins’ writing style is easy to follow and her characters are memorable and relatable.
In conclusion, Isla and the Happily Ever After is a wonderful addition to the young adult genre, and Perkins’ captivating prose and memorable characters make it a worthwhile read for anyone looking for a light and uplifting romance book. I would give this book a rating of 4 out of 5, based on its strengths in character development, relatable themes, and romantic storyline, while also acknowledging its limitations in pacing and supporting character development.
