Taking place in 1986, Eleanor & Park follows the story of two teenagers who come from very different backgrounds. Park has lived in Omaha his entire life, but he has always felt different. Eleanor is the new girl in town, and she is an outcast in every way possible. When the two adolescents begin sitting next to each on the bus each day, their tentative friendships gradually blossoms into an intense and passionate relationship.
I absolutely loved the personalities of Eleanor and Park! They were both very dynamic characters, and it was so interesting to read each chapter from their alternating perspectives. Rowell’s writing style is very unique and different from anything I’ve ever read before; this was slightly confusing to me at times, but entertaining nonetheless. The plot was very well-developed, but I do feel like the ending left some questions unanswered to me. Overall, I enjoyed this book and I would definitely recommend it to a friend.
My favorite thing about the story was how Eleanor and Park bonded over alternative music; I thought that was absolutely adorable and I could easily relate since I love alternative music!
Review by Maryum, Grade 11, Twin Hickory Area Library
HCPL TeenScene's Read + Review 