“First Date” by Krista McGee by is a YA fiction book based
loosely on the story of Esther. The story follows teen girl Addy Davidson as
she competes to win a date with the President’s son on a reality show. She is
reluctant to be in the competition and only ends up in it because her high
school principle talks her into it for the sake of promoting her school. Once
she is there and actually meets the President’s son, Jonathon Jackson, she
starts to change her attitude toward the whole situation. She is challenged by
the other girls, who aren’t so reluctant to compete, and learns more about
herself through the process. Also, by being herself and not being one of the
other clamoring girls she catches the eye of Jonathon and romance pursues.
I thought the book was a fun, easy read. Being young adult
fiction did not mean that I didn’t enjoy it as an adult. Yes it was thematically
geared toward teens but not so much that I felt like I couldn’t relate. I also
know that my teen self would have loved having a book like this to read. It was
clean and yet still had enough romance and intrigue that I was entertained
throughout. Having the Bible story Esther weaved into the storyline made the
book somewhat predictable but at the same time I enjoyed it. McGee did a good
job of mixing up the elements enough that it was a fresh take on the Biblical
tale.
I would recommend this book for a day on the beach. It is slightly fluffy
but perfectly enjoyable for a relaxing day. Add a blended coconut mocha and you will have
a perfect sunny day.
Your Sippin Chick
*I received this book free from Booksneeze in exchange for an
honest review.
