London Prep by Jillian Dodd
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a great adventure! I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I have to say thank you to Jillian Dodd (author) and the publisher for allowing me to join their early readers. I am an avid fan of books that allow me to step outside of my own background. I live in the U.S. and this book is based in London. I attended public school and this story takes place in what appears to be a private school. It is great to read a book that takes the reader out of their comfort zone and does a great job of showing them a different pont-of-view. I considered going to private school but, I wanted to stay with my friends. That was no longer a choice when I went to high school but, even with different types of school the same issues pop up like not wanting to do sports. I was voted the most non-dressing student in gym class as I always had an excuse for why I couldn't participate, well until I was forced to participate. I do relate to Mallory quite a bit.

Another striking thing about London Prep is seeing that students that go to private school and that live in London have the same issues in their family lives as U.S. students. It is interesting that despite how divergent our country's paths were some things are quite similar. Mallory did point out how different some things were also. I can attest to the great coffee shops in London as I found one as soon as I arrived for a visit a few years ago and made it my home away from hotel. Since it was directly across from the Victoria and Albert Museum, there was some great people watching to be done there.

London Prep is a funny book at the same time that it can be heartbreaking. It is hard to understand sometimes why adults don't always consider their actions and sometimes it is the case that families see everything as family business. But, when does something supersede or become more important than keeping things secret within a family? London Prep successfully highlights home situations that students have everywhere. For example, it is hard for a student to concentrate on school work and socializing when they don't have food to eat at home, a family member is sick, or any number of trying family situations. London Prep provides great characters who are well-written and that the reader can relate to regardless of age differences. It is the start of a great series and I really look forward to the next book.