Review: Getting Over Garrett Delaney by Abby McDonald

Released: January 24, 2012
Publisher: Candlewick
Rated: YA
Buy: Amazon

Seventeen-year-old Sadie is in love: epic, heartfelt, and utterly one-sided. The object of her obsession — ahem, affection — is her best friend,Garrett Delaney, who has been oblivious to Sadie’s feelings ever since he sauntered into her life and wowed her with his passion for Proust (not to mention his deep blue eyes).
For two long, painful years, Sadie has been Garrett’s constant companion, sharing his taste in everything from tragic Russian literature to art films to ’80s indie rock — all to no avail. But when Garrett leaves for a summer literary retreat, Sadie is sure that the absence will make his heart grow fonder — until he calls to say he’s fallen in love. With some other girl! A heartbroken Sadie realizes that she’s finally had enough. It’s time for a total Garrett detox!
Aided by a barista job, an eclectic crew of new friends (including the hunky chef, Josh), and a customized self-help guide, Sadie embarks on a summer of personal reinvention full of laughter, mortifying meltdowns, and a double shot of love.

What I thought

This was a lot better than I thought it would be, a lot different too. I had a few theories when I first started this and it turned out so much different than I thought. And it was better for it. Sadie has been head over heels in love with her best friend... who pretty much sees through her as if she weren't standing right in front of him when it comes to romantic feelings. While I thought I was going to get a romantic ya book, it was a coming of age and self discovery for a girl whose life for the last few years has revolved around one person, the boy she thought was her destiny.

Watching Sadie struggle to figure out a way to get over him after he's broke her heart (again, though seemingly unintentionally), it really helped me to connect with her as a character. She does struggle, she's very real and human about her feelings for Garrett and even blind to way he treats her. It wasn't easy for her, she fought the process most of the way. That's what made it feel so real, since a lot of girls have probably felt the same way (I know I have). The supporting characters in this were fantastic. While most of the story focuses on Sadie, we do get side stories of a few others and we learn that even those older than Sadie struggle with what she's going through, and they band together.

From start to finish, this book was such a joy to read. I was engaged the entire time and emotionally invested in the outcome. This is definitely a good book for anyone to read. A journey of self discovery that all girls (and women) should read.

My Rating

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