Review: Anna and the French Kiss

Image Source: Penguin Random House

In a surprisingly refreshing revamp of typical relationship cliches, Stephanie Perkins captures the magical idealism of teenage romance in her novel Anna and the French Kiss.

It’s the summer before her senior year of high school, and everything is going just as Anna had hoped, that is, until her father decides that she should spend her senior year at an American high school in Paris, France. Suddenly everything is new and intimidating–including swoon-worthy love interest Etienne St. Clair. As Anna begrudgingly learns to navigate new places, languages, and relationships, she learns that the “City of Lights” might have more in store for her than she could have ever imagined.

For romance fans and fluff-loving readers, Anna’s story is heartwarming, humorous, and charmingly quirky. Filled with fairytale moments and awkward teenage interactions alike, young adults will easily fall in love with Anna and her friends. Though Anna as a character is at times self-centered, immature, and opinionated, the novel itself is well-written and engaging.

With a plot ideal for those looking for a light summer read, Anna and the French Kiss delivers delightfully cheesy teenage romance at its best.