Name: Camp Boyfriend
ISBN: 9781939392503

J. K. Rock

After successfully transforming herself from geek to a popular girl at a new school, Lauren hopes to get away from the pressures of popularity at summer camp, but new problems with old friends and boys from both worlds soon complicate things.

Camp Boyfriend

"But, in the words of the late, great rocker Kurt Cobain, 'Wanting to be someone else is a waste of the person you are.'"


This book made me wish I had gone to summer camp when I was growing up. Now, the issue with this is that I have always had some, shall we say "diva tendencies," that lead me to not exactly enjoy the out-of-doors. Not that I think *all* of the outdoors is bad. I'm just not a fan of the bugs and creepy-crawly things and swimming in natural bodies of water and such. But, this book made me want to go to summer camp even as a 30-something year old woman. I just don't think that's an option. :)

I picked this book up at the time there was a pretty large book blitz taking place because I read so many positive things about it. I'm so glad I did; I absolutely adored this book. Everything about the writing was totally believable and real. The setting was created so perfectly, I had no trouble picturing myself at camp. The characters had depth. There was more to them than met the eye. The romance(s) and friendships and conflicts were realistic. Sure, some of the big issues, especially with the friendships, seemed petty and illogical... but that's part of being a teen.


  "This is about me. I need to be on my own, to figure out what is going on."


I liked Lauren. I could relate to her struggle of being someone different to fit in. I think most girls probably can put themselves in her place pretty easily. Sure, she was a bit wishy-washy and indecisive, but I could feel and understand why she felt that way. First love is a powerful thing. It's not easy to move past. I respected the way Lauren handled the love triangle. She didn't string both boys along. She took time away to decide what she really wanted. That, alone, sets this book apart from a lot of the YA genre and I appreciate that.


  "You make me the person I want to be, Lauren. Give me these four weeks before I leave for football to convince you that good times like that aren't a fluke. We'll be as good here as we were in Texas, as right for each other. I know it."

"I don't want to risk hurting you."

"It's my heart, Lauren. Let me decide what it can take."


Now, for the boys. I wasn't sure about Matt as the book started, but my word, it didn't take long to convince me that he was so much more than "the jock." He broke the stereotypes. If I'm being honest, I wasn't ever a huge Seth fan. I didn't dislike him, but he didn't do anything for me either. I just never really connected with his character. He gave up too easily in the beginning. I wanted him to fight for Lauren more.

I was so pleased with this book. It really was the perfect summertime read. So, read it now, before summer is over. :)

Find this review, and others on my blog.