Book Review: The Boyfriend List: A Sweet YA Romance by J.L. Wyer
As someone who often reminisces about the ups and downs of high school, The Boyfriend List by J.L. Wyer immediately drew my attention, not just for its catchy title, but for its adorable premise centered around the awkward charm of a nerdy teenager navigating her first crushes and fears. Winner of the 2023 HOLT Medallion Award for Young Adult fiction, this book promises a delightful blend of laughter and romance—and it certainly delivers.
At the heart of the story is Maegan Murphy, a quiet, science-loving high schooler who has yet to dip her toes into the world of dating. With her signature graphic tees and love for frogs, Maegan embodies the relatable quirks of being a teenager. However, when she accidentally spills a secret list of her crushes at school, her life goes from typical teenage ambivalence to chaotic—and, of course, hilarious—public scrutiny.
The elements of Murphy’s Law woven throughout the narrative highlight the unexpected turns we often face in life, leaving you chuckling at Maegan’s misadventures. From a collision with her best friend’s dashing older brother, Grayson, to a lunchroom mishap involving an apple core, the plot is rich with instances where everything that can go wrong decidedly does—often leading to laugh-out-loud moments reminiscent of rom-com classics.
Wyer’s writing style is accessible and vibrant, perfectly capturing the jumble of emotions that accompany first loves. The pacing is well-balanced, allowing for both heartfelt moments and comedic relief. There’s a lovely familiarity to the way Maegan interacts with her friends and crushes, making you want to cheer for her as she stumbles through her social landscape.
One of the standout elements for me was the dynamic between Maegan and her best friend Noah. Their friendship is genuine and sweet, embodying that often-overlooked trope of the capable boy BFF who stands as a supportive pillar. In one particularly memorable moment, he reassures Maegan that being herself is enough—a reminder we could all use, regardless of our age.
Readers looking for a sweet, lighthearted romance will find themselves enamored with The Boyfriend List. Many have praised its ability to provoke smiles and squeals, and I wholeheartedly agree. It’s filled with charming high school experiences, neighborly crushes, and even a touch of fake dating that eventually evolves into something real.
This novel won’t redefine the genre, but it offers a warm, nostalgic escape into the vibrant, clumsy world of teenage love. If you enjoyed films like The Kissing Booth or To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before, this book is right up your alley. I found myself flipping pages quickly, eager to see how Maegan’s adventures culminate.
In conclusion, The Boyfriend List is more than just a cute romance; it’s a delightful reminder of the chaos of young love and the beauty of embracing one’s true self. If you’ve ever felt like an awkward outsider navigating the complexities of high school, Maegan’s story will resonate. I believe this book is destined to become a favorite among teens and nostalgic adults alike—grab a cupcake, sink into your favorite reading chair, and enjoy this delightful adventure.