Book Review: Love and Other Subjects

by: Kathleen Shoop

Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble

Synopsis:
For every woman who thought she chose the wrong career…

In Love and Other Subjects Carolyn Jenkins strives for two things—to be the greatest teacher ever and to find true love. She’s as skilled at both as an infant chowing down with a fork. Carolyn’s suburban upbringing and genuine compassion for people who don’t fit effortlessly into society are no match for weapon-wielding, struggling students, drug-using colleagues, and a wicked principal.

Meanwhile, her budding relationship with a mystery man is thwarted by his gaggle of eccentric sisters. Carolyn depends on her friends to get her through the hard times, but with poverty-stricken children at her feet and a wealthy man at her side, she must define who she is. The reality of life after college can be daunting—the road to full-fledged adulthood is long and unscripted. Can Carolyn take control and craft the life she’s always wanted?

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My first impression when I sat down to read this story was joy that it is a novel! My 2nd impression was, I love Carolyn! She is goofy, struggling with her career, and a bit socially awkward. I'm VERY socially awkward and I can't seem to figure out what I want to do with myself. Granted, she knew she wanted to be a teacher who makes a difference, but between the students and the principal, she was struggling through her first year.

"I made people laugh. Not because I was witty, but because I was ridiculous." - Carolyn in Love and Other Subjects.

When the story started, I kept waiting for her to quit and find a new career. She didn't seem to be a good fit, and she kept butting heads with Klein, the principal. She'd have to deal with him and then her students would do something horrifying. The stress she was under, I just gained so much respect for this character because she never gave up. She had a goal, and fought for it.

One evening, after having been shot in the foot with a BB gun, she met Jeep (aka Money). He was handsome and his very touch sent shock-waves through her body. She felt a "soul-slip"; which I think is the least cheesy soul-mate thing ever. But even this isn't perfect. They both keep messing up, too stubborn. I'll give him credit, he was very sweet and natural with her.

It's also really funny in many parts. Yes, crude, but I couldn't help but snort-laugh when she woke herself with very loud farts during her first sleep-over with Jeep. You end up wanting what's best for her, but who knows what that is? You just have to keep reading. I was nearly late for work last night, I just had to finish! lol