Sam & Ilsa's Last Hurrah by Rachel Cohn, David Levithan
Published by Knopf Books for Young Readers on April 10th 2018
ISBN: 0399553843
Pages: 211
Genres: Realistic Fiction
Goodreads

Another story set in NYC written in alternating chapters by the duo of Rachel Cohn and David Levithan. Sam and Isla have hosted dinner parties in their grandmother’s fabulous Upper West Side rent-controlled apartment throughout high school, but now they are seniors this is their “last hurrah.” The twins’ grandmother is selling her apartment and moving to Paris; Sam and Isla will presumably be leaving home as well, but their plans are a little less sure. The traditional dinner party rules established allow each twin to invite three people without telling their sibling who they invited. The night that ensues entails sock puppets, cat dresses, burned lasagna, and realities being confronted. Cohn and Levithan establish the twins are privileged and quirky, but not too privileged and quirky, but the story feels very indulgent when compared to many of the new books being published that provide unique voices to help readers understand the complex relationships in our society. Readers of Cohn and Levithan will find the story predictable, but consider purchasing if this duo’s work is still popular in your library.

Recommended for grades 10 and up

Elizabeth Andersen, Librarian, Westbrook High School