Book Review: Roomies by Sara Zarr & Tara Altebrando

Roomies
Author: Sara Zarr & Tara Altebrando
Reading Level: Young Adult
Genre: Contemporary
Released: December 24th 2013
Review Source: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

It's time to meet your new roomie. When East Coast native Elizabeth receives her freshman-year roommate assignment, she shoots off an e-mail to coordinate the basics: television, microwave, mini-fridge. That first note to San Franciscan Lauren sparks a series of e-mails that alters the landscape of each girl's summer -- and raises questions about how two girls who are so different will ever share a dorm room. As the countdown to college begins, life at home becomes increasingly complex. With family relationships and childhood friendships strained by change, it suddenly seems that the only people Elizabeth and Lauren can rely on are the complicated new boys in their lives . . . and each other. Even though they've never met. National Book Award finalist Sara Zarr and acclaimed author Tara Altebrando join forces for a novel about growing up, leaving home, and getting that one fateful e-mail that assigns your college roommate.

Elizabeth receives her freshman-year dorm roommate assignment. As a logical decision, she sends an e-mail to her assigned roommate, Lauren, to figure out the basics: television, microwave, mini fridge etc. What she doesn't expect is the countless e-mails that follow. Lauren and Elizabeth find support in each other throughout the summer while dealing with family and boy troubles, even though they've never met.

Wow! I loved this story in it's entirety! Such a perfect representation of how friendships are built in the 21st century. Through the interweb, people can connect. And, that's exactly what Elizabeth and Lauren did. What a great way to get to know each other since, I mean, you will be rooming together for freshman year.

 I loved how each story was told, Zarr and Altebrando did a wonderful job in the layout of the book. Going from one girl to the next, each "voice" was distinguishable and each setting was different. I really enjoyed being taken on this journey through each girls life, family problem, boy trouble, and especially their friendship building.

 Definitely pick up your copy of Roomies when looking for a great, fun read!