This is a perfectly serviceable teen rom-com that does exactly what it sets out to do: make 14-year-olds feel seen and laugh at the absurdity of adolescence. It's not groundbreaking, and seventeen years later it definitely shows its age (the fashion! the phones! the MySpace references!), but it has heart.
The WISE score reflects that it's wholesome enough for its target demographic, safe within the teen rom-com genre, and offers moderate enrichment through relatable emotional situations. But let's be real: it's not particularly imaginative, and the 2008 vibes mean it won't have the same punch for 2025 teens as it did for millennials who read the books.
If you've got a 13-14 year old who loves teen romance and can appreciate something a bit retro, this is a solid pick. For older teens or kids looking for something more substantive, keep scrolling.




