Review: The Lonely Hearts Club by Elizabeth Eulberg

Publisher: Point
Pages: 290
Source: Personal Copy
Category: Young Adult
Rating: 5/5


Synopsis:

Penny Lane was born to Beatles obsessed parents. All her siblings are named after a Beatles song, and anytime Penny shows an interest in the Beatles her parents commend her on exploring her heritage. Yes, her heritage. When Penny forms a new club called 'The Lonely Hearts Club' her parents couldn't be happier. They believe Penny has grasped her roots. Her parents will do anything that Paul McCartney utters, including never eating meat. Penny Lane is just another high school girl, but when her heart is broken by her boyfriend she forms a lonely club. Nathan, a childhood friend cheats on Penny during the summer in her own house. She can't tell her parents because they're best friends with Nathan parents. Penny endures her heartbreak among her friends and becomes the one and only member of her club. Penny opens her eyes, and is sickened by her observations. High school is filed with girls who are constantly fixated on boys. As far as Penny is concerned boys are liars, cheaters and not worth her time. Boys will no longer be a priority in her life, and she decides to never date again while in high school. Her friend Tracy, does not agree with her priorities but she changes her mind over time. Penny is adamant that boys are out of her life. She plans to focus on her female friendships. The club expands quickly and high school becomes an estrogen infused sisterhood. The males are in shock and the girls threaten a revolution. The Club is more than Penny expected, but when she unexpectedly begins to fall for a boy her life becomes a little more difficult...




Overall Impression:

The Lonely Hearts Club is a very positive book for young girls. I loved every minute of reading it. Elizabeth Eulberg did an amazing job creating a story that will encourage many young girls. This book is about identity, friendships and making life decisions. Penny Lane was true to herself, and found great strength in her commitments. This is a wonderful, sweet coming-of-age story. In high school every thing feels dramatic and life-defining, especially a broken heart. I found this book refreshing and I loved the characters, they felt very realistic to me. I loved Penny's parents and I loved the strong bond between Penny and her sisters. This book is a great 'girl-power' book for teens. A fantastic debut!

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