The majorly awkward BFF dramas of Lottie Brooks by Katie Kirby

Lottie Brooks is a slightly odd teenager, but she knows it. In this latest episode of the vagaries and dramas of her life she is enjoying spending time with her boyfriend, but must juggle his attentions and time with him, with maintenance of her group of BFFs (Best Friends Forever). She is also trying to develop a unique style, convince her parents to get a dog and recording the details of her life in her illustrated diary.  Everything Lottie touches seems to go slightly awry, and her friendship with Jess seems to have hit a pothole.  But Lottie has a heart of gold, and nothing can stay awkward forever… or can it? 

This is a charming teen friendship tale, told from the perspective of the central character and illustrated with quirky stick figure characters (added by Lottie herself). Told as diary entry reflections, it reveals a lot about early teen life dramas. Lottie reflects with naive honesty about first kisses, being teased, juggling family experiences and friendship expectations, attending a live concert and hearing big ‘news’ from Jess (who identifies as gay) and Amber (whose parents have separated).  The forgiving, humorous and open nature of Lottie and her friends makes this light-hearted journey into UK teen life a pleasure to read. Young readers aged 11-14 will find this an enjoyable reading journey.

Themes: Friendship, Family, Relationships, LGBTIQ.

Carolyn Hull