PLEASE DON'T KILL THE FRESHMAN
Zoe Trope
HarperTempest
Memoir
ISBN: 0060529369
304 pages

Read an Excerpt

The dedication page at the beginning of Zoe Trope's latest work reads, "For my parents: This is all your fault." Feelings of dark humor and teen angst are apparent on this single page, and that is what PLEASE DON'T KILL THE FRESHMAN is all about.

Following the first few pages, the reader quickly realizes that this is not a typical memoir. It is in fact a story within a story within a story. First, it is the story of a girl's first three years in high school --- featuring her motley crew of friends, her feelings toward high school, and her newfound yet uncertain sexuality. On this touchy topic, Zoe basically discovers that she can't help but fall in love with everyone, whether or not they are in love with her.

Second, this is a guide to the world of book publishing and promotion. While Zoe deals with high school, she gets her book published. She also goes on weekend book tours and learns that many people like her book. This discovery unnerves Zoe and creates growing uncertainty. Readers soon find themselves wondering if this uncertainty will continue to plague Zoe for the remainder of the book.

Third, this is a story about the beginning of a girl's awkward and sometimes dark journey through life. Zoe makes some shocking confessions and twisted, yet occasionally true, observations about life. There seems to be many questions as to whether this book is indeed a true account of a person's life or a parody of an alternate universe. It is up to the reader to decide.

I found PLEASE DON'T KILL THE FRESHMAN to be weird and shocking, which made for an interesting reading experience. I strongly recommend however that only a mature audience read this book, as it contains strong language and sexual references.

   --- Reviewed by Sarah Sawtelle (SdarksideG@aol.com)

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