10 Blind Dates by Ashley Elston follows the story of 17-year-old Sophie who wanted one thing for Christmas—to spend some time with her boyfriend Griffin over winter break while her parents visited her pregnant older sister. However, Sophie realizes that Griffin doesn’t want the same thing, but instead wanted some alone time to “see what it would be like if they broke up.” Upset, Sophie breaks up with him. Devastated and crushed, Sophie arrives at her grandparents’ house in Louisiana where her large extended family meets over the holidays. She explains what happened with her boyfriend to her grandmother who devises a plan to make Sophie feel better. Sophie‘s grandmother and other members of the family—aunts, uncles, and cousins—decide to set Sophie up on blind dates. Sophie is pulled into the amusing mess and agrees dishearteningly at first. However, Sophie realizes that going on these dates gets her mind off Griffin. Instead of crying and staying in bed all day, she goes out and has a good time. These experiences let her reflect on who she is as a person and how there’s more to life than what she had initially planned. In the end, she embraces the idea of having fun more often and reconnecting with her family.

This is a cute, light-hearted novel. It's fun to read about all the characters in the book, whether they are the crazy but loving aunts and uncles, the funny and supportive cousins, or the nice guys (most of them) which Sophie went on dates with. I can relate to Sophie since she is also a serious senior worried about college and the future. Sometimes, we need our family to remind us about the people who will always be there for us and make sure that we’re happy. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for something funny and light to read, especially during the winter season.

Review by: Manal Mian

Manal is a 17-year-old teen with a passion for reading and sharing her love of books with others. Now in 12th grade, she likes to volunteer and give back to her community. Manal also enjoys listening to music, spending time with friends, baking, and swimming!

—Michael Baradi, Young Adult Librarian: Porter Ranch Branch Library