Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

Where to Read

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Screenwise Verdict

This is a solid, sweet YA romance that does what it promises: delivers a charming holiday love story with a creative twist. The notebook scavenger hunt is genuinely fun, and the dual narration keeps things interesting.

It's not going to change anyone's life or win literary awards for character complexity, but that's fine—it's a cozy, readable romance that celebrates books and thoughtful connection. Some reviewers found the characters a bit thin (quirky-girl-meets-brooding-boy can feel formulaic), but the concept carries it through.

Safety-wise, it's very tame for teens. The Netflix adaptation is TV-14, and parent reviews confirm high schoolers will find it appropriate and heartwarming. A few references to teen drinking and mild language won't shock anyone.

The 2011 publication date shows slightly in tech references, but the core story—two lonely teens finding each other through creativity and vulnerability—feels timeless. If your teen loves contemporary romance, bookish characters, or NYC settings, this is an easy recommend. If they want gritty realism or complex plotting, look elsewhere.

Age Fit

Best for ages 13-17, particularly middle and high school readers who enjoy contemporary YA romance. The themes of social anxiety, first romance, and finding your people resonate most with teens. Adults who love YA or holiday rom-coms might also enjoy it, but it's squarely aimed at the teen experience.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

82

A sweet, romantic scavenger hunt between two teens that emphasizes connection through shared interests (books, music, New York City). The relationship builds through thoughtful exchanges rather than physical attraction alone. Models vulnerability, self-discovery, and genuine communication. Some teenage angst and family tensions are age-appropriate. The holiday setting adds warmth without being saccharine.

Imaginative

88

The central conceit—two strangers trading dares and dreams through a red notebook left in various NYC locations—is genuinely creative and invites readers to imagine their own scavenger hunt romances. The dual-narrator structure (Dash's cynicism vs. Lily's optimism) offers contrasting perspectives. Celebrates bookstores, literature, and the magic of New York during the holidays. Inspires curiosity about urban exploration and creative communication.

Safe

88

Very safe for teen readers. No graphic content, violence, or explicit sexual material. Some mild language and teenage drinking references appear but are handled responsibly. The romance is chaste and age-appropriate. Parent reviews confirm it's 'very tame' for high schoolers. The emotional stakes—social anxiety, family expectations, romantic disappointment—are realistic but not traumatic. Web search confirms Common Sense Media parents rate it appropriate for teens with TV-14 equivalent content.

Enriching

75

Celebrates literacy, independent bookstores, and thoughtful communication. Explores themes of introversion vs. extroversion, family dynamics, and the courage to be vulnerable. The New York City setting offers cultural enrichment. However, the plot is fairly straightforward YA romance without deep philosophical exploration. Provides emotional insight into teenage social anxiety and the gap between online/written personas and real-world selves. Entertaining but not profoundly transformative.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

The notebook scavenger hunt concept is genuinely charming and will make teens want to create their own literary adventures
Dual narration shows two very different personalities (cynical Dash vs. optimistic Lily) navigating the same romance, which helps readers see multiple perspectives
Celebrates bookstores, reading, and New York City during the holidays without being cheesy about it
The romance builds on shared interests and vulnerability rather than just physical attraction—models healthier relationship development
Perfect length and pacing for reluctant readers who want contemporary romance without 400-page commitment

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What to Watch For

Some reviewers note the characters can feel thin or stereotypical (quirky girl meets brooding boy), so manage expectations if your teen wants deep character development
Brief references to teenage drinking and mild language—nothing shocking but worth knowing
The 'will they connect in person?' tension might frustrate readers who want faster romantic payoff
Written in 2011, so some cultural references and technology use feel slightly dated (though the core story holds up)

Conversation Starters

"If you could leave a notebook of dares for someone to find, what would be your first challenge?"
"Dash and Lily are super different—he's cynical, she's optimistic. Do you think opposites really attract, or is that just a romance trope?"
"The book is all about whether their 'notebook selves' match their real selves. Do you think people are different online or in writing than in person? Are you?"
"Would you rather get to know someone through letters/texts first, or meet them face-to-face right away? What are the pros and cons?"
"What NYC location would you pick for a dare or romantic meet-up?"

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