Well, That Was Unexpected by Jesse Q. Sutanto
Published by Delacorte Press on September 27, 2022
ISBN: 0593433971
Pages: 352
Genres: Humor, Realistic Fiction, Romance
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads

A fun Crazy-Rich-Asians-style novel written for a YA audience.

Sharlot and George are two teens in Jakarta, Indonesia (she’s an Indo-American visiting family for the summer, he’s from a super-wealthy Indo family) whose parents – his dad, her mom – unknowingly catfish each other on a dating app on behalf of their respective teen. Their efforts to impress each other by boasting of exaggerated traditional virtues do not represent either teen, so neither looks forward to meeting the other. When they do meet, however, they are attracted to each other – though that attraction is complicated by them each believing the other to be also different (and less likeable) due to their (parent created) online persona. Neither is honest with the other, fearing rejection. Ultimately, an ambitious reporter exposes all in a cringe-worthy reveal that finally brings the only dragging plot point (constant looping thoughts from both characters about what would happen if they were honest) to a close.

The novel, told in alternating POV from both Sharlot and George, has laugh-out-loud moments, and also tackles some high interest topics that teens all over the world deal with: social media; double standards for boys and girls (even in the same situation); insecurities; family dynamics in a media-obsessed (and accessible) age. The book is set in Indonesia, so there is also plenty of scenery, food, and culture to soak up – I felt a little like I was on a mini-vacation while reading it. Great for teens who like lighthearted realistic fiction. Ages 14+.

Reviewed by Jenny Martinez Nocito, Maine State Library