LGBT MONTH Review of Turning 16 by Perie Wolford

Synopsis:
New Gay Series To Pay Tribute To Sixteen Candles Movie and Other Awesome John Hughes Movies (The Second Edition)

Sam never liked his birthdays because not a single one of them was happy... When he turned 1, he fell face-down into his birthday cake; when he turned 5, he broke his left arm and when he turned 7, he broke his right arm and his left leg; when he turned 12, his house caught fire. Now Sam is about to turn 16 and he is dreading the day. The only birthday wish he has is for Jake who is the Mr. Popular of Arcadia High to even acknowledge his existence, or better yet give him a happy-birthday kiss.

But Sam knows that it’s not gonna happen. Or is it?

Disclaimer: The plot of the books substantially varies from the John Hughes movies and all the references to the movies are made as a tribute to their awesomeness. (Taken from Goodreads)

Stars Given:★★★★★

Overall View:
I honestly just loved this book because of the simplicity.  There weren't any characters that I had disliked, and Sam was a very likable character.  I feel like almost every teen could relate to this book because of the problems that characters, especially Sam, face.  Not only can this relate to gay people in high school, but this book can also relate to others with different orientations too.  I really can't wait to read the second book and join Sam on another mini adventure again!  It is just one of the cutest books ever, I am definitely going to reread this book again!  I love how Sam has dreams about Jake, then both Jake and Mitch.  It just added a little more spice to the already perfect book.  This is recommended for those who would love to experience their high school love all over again...or if for those who would just want something light and cute to read.

Character:
Sam -
Description of Character: a hopelessly romantic boy with an indestructible sense of wonder and ever-optimistic spirit, who faces difficulties with a sarcastic smile on his face.


Review of Character: Sam was such a likable character, which is one reason why this book deserves 5 stars.  I found him cute, and his indecisiveness just made him a better character.  Why?  This is because many of us teens can relate to Sam.  Whether we are choosing between two future lovers, or two friends, we know what it is like to be torn between two choices.  I love how realistic this book is, and how Sam is relateable to many of us teenagers.  Because Sam is such a realistic character, he has changed the atmosphere of this whole book. 


*Supporting characters not listed