The Way You Make Me Feel | Fun YA Romance

4/5 stars

Clara Shin is doomed to working in her dad’s food truck all summer. After she took a joke too far, she and her nemesis, Rose, are stuck in this food truck instead of enjoying their summers apart and free from drama. As Clara works in the food truck, she begins to realize that it may not be as bad as she thought. And maybe she should give the guy with a crush on her a chance.

This was a solid YA fiction that offered representation and a unique story. Clara Shin wasn’t exactly a character I could relate to, but I really appreciated her individuality and spirit. She had solid character development for a 16-year-old beginning to figure out themselves as well as who their friends are. I also enjoyed how her race and ethnicity were relevant themes to the story, but not overpowering. It allowed me to read a book offering me representation without me reading through pages of racism education. 

I thought the romance aspect was a bit lacking, but I didn’t mind it. Hamlet was a fun character that genuinely cared about and supported Clara. While his and Clara’s connection began because of his crush on her, I found this story to be more about the relationships you have with the people who support you. I appreciated this because it felt more true to a teen’s life— romantic relationships are important, but equally important is finding a support system and recognizing that it changes as you do. 

Overall, another great YA from Maurene Goo. Goo is quickly becoming one of my go-to authors for YA with Asian representation.