REVIEW: My Worst Best Friend by Dyan Sheldon

Review by Luisa.

Quiet, thoughtful Gracie cares about lizards, old films and saving the planet. Boys don't even notice her. Her bubbly best friend Savanna cares about shopping malls, blockbusters and her boyfriend Archie. Heads turn wherever she goes. The girls might be complete opposites, but they're best friends - in fact, they're best best friends, practically soul sisters. Nothing can ever come between them. Until Savanna meets someone new, and lands Gracie in some difficult situations. Gracie starts to realise how much Savanna relies on lies and manipulation. How far will Gracie go for the sake of friendship - and how far will Savanna stretch their bond to get her way?

I've long admired Dyan Sheldon's ability to create unusual, witty and intelligent characters, and the ones in this book are no exception. Savanna's personality shines and dances off the page, while Gracie's dry wit is a joy to read. Gracie cares deeply about ecology and it is great to see how this colours the way she relates to events as they unfold. For example, when she's asked a very awkward question, these are her thoughts: "I must have known that he wasn't going to ask me about the probable effects of unchecked global warming, but my guard was down. I walked into his question like a dolphin swimming into a tuna net."

There are some other fantastic characters too, including Gracie's eccentric, loving and loveable father, and the quirky and interesting Cooper, a boy who's completely on Gracie's wavelength. I loved all the film references in the book and the way they connected Gracie and Cooper.

The pace of this story is gentle and the drama in the plot is understated. There are no huge shockers, just a subtle and gradual development in the way Gracie sees Savanna, and how this reflects on her view of herself and on other relationships. Gracie is very caring and loyal, and often misguided. Sometimes you want to reach into the book and shout at her not to make certain decisions, but there are also scenes where it's understandable why the world (including Gracie) is attracted to Savanna's easy charm.

This is a warm-hearted and witty exploration of friendship and trust, with a focus on growing up and thinking for yourself. Definitely recommended!

Review by Luisa

Comments

[Sophie]

Thanks for the fab review, Luisa! I'm looking forward to reading this even more now. In fact, I think I'll read it next...

[Sammee]

Sounds Fab! Thanks for the review:)

[Jenny]

I can't wait to read this, you've made me really excited. Yay!

[Jo]

Great review, Luisa! I love the sound of this book, and I'm really intrigued! I can't wait to read it myself! :)

[blueicegal]

awesome!! i have this on me and hope to review it soon!