Book Review: Tell Me Three Things by Julie Buxbaum
From the moment I stumbled upon Tell Me Three Things by Julie Buxbaum, I was utterly intrigued. A blend of humor, heartache, and high school drama, it felt like it was tailor-made for anyone who’s navigated the choppy waters of adolescence. Buxbaum’s ability to illuminate the trials of teenage life through Jessie, a girl grappling with loss and identity, left me eager to dive into this emotional yet uplifting journey.
At the heart of the story is Jessie, who feels like a fish out of water after moving from Chicago to a posh prep school in Los Angeles following her mother’s death and her father’s sudden remarriage. The narrative invites us into her world—a place where loss collides with the fierce desire to belong. This duality resonates deeply: Jessie’s yearning for acceptance coupled with her struggle to cope with her past creates an emotional tapestry that many readers can relate to.
Buxbaum employs an engaging writing style, interspersing witty dialogues with heartfelt introspection. The pacing is just right—fast enough to keep you turning the pages but slow enough to savor the profound moments. One of my favorite aspects is the digital correspondence between Jessie and the mysterious Somebody/Nobody (SN). This online relationship becomes Jessie’s lifeline, showcasing how connections can form in unexpected ways. The exchange of “three things” feels like a charming ritual that artfully highlights their growing bond, and it’s a motif that brings a unique twist to their relationship.
The characters are painted with depth and authenticity. Jessie’s journey is enriched by her interactions with her new friends and her step-family, with each relationship unveiling layers of complexity and allowing for growth. I especially appreciated how the author tackled themes of gossip and rivalry, showcasing how friendships can be both fragile and empowering. Moments of humor are peppered throughout, balancing the weight of the subject matter.
There were several quotes that echoed in my mind long after I turned the final page. One moment that stands out is when Jessie reflects, “One of the worst parts about someone dying is thinking back to all those times you didn’t ask the right questions…” It resonates universally, reminding us of the importance of cherishing the moments we sometimes take for granted.
As I closed the book, I felt a mixture of satisfaction and the slight ache of longing. I yearned for just a bit more time with Jessie and her crew, pondering the paths they might take beyond the last chapter. This compelling story isn’t just for teens; it’s a heartfelt exploration of love, loss, and the transformative experience of finding one’s place in the world.
I would recommend Tell Me Three Things to anyone who appreciates a poignant, relatable coming-of-age tale—especially those who cherish the nuances of friendship and the messiness of growing up. Buxbaum’s narrative transports you back to a time where everything felt monumental, reflecting the beauty and turmoil of youth. If you’re seeking a book that balances laugh-out-loud moments with tear-jerking introspection, this one’s a must-read.