LOVE IN 280 CHARACTERS OR LESS by Ravynn K. Stringfield
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I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from the publisher in order to write this review.
The publisher’s summary
Black college student Sydney Ciara navigates academics, love, and the online space, in this coming-of-age told through her blog posts, messages, and more!
Sydney Ciara Warren is excited as she starts her first year of college, but also nervous. Despite her interests in writing and fashion, she has no idea what path will ultimately be right for her. As she tries to figure out her place on campus and in the world, she finds solace in blogging about her life, putting together outfits with meaning, and spending time online.
It’s within the digital space that she connects with someone who goes by YoungPrinceX. She may not know “X” in real life, but that doesn’t stop her from developing a crush on him. Except she’s also navigating her first romantic relationship, with a sweet boy on campus named Xavier (who maybe could be X???).
Can Sydney Ciara not only make it through her first semester, but thrive in real life, as much as she seems to be thriving online?
My recommendation
Through a lens of digital privacy vs. public platform, Stringfield probes the murky line between online honesty and activism. Although Syd remains confident of her writing’s value and meaning, she must learn to communicate that value to the important people in her life, all while navigating the mundane yet thrilling experiences of her first year of college independence. The engaging story of one young writer’s journey to find her voice will connect with college students and high schoolers alike.
Susan the Librarian 