Book Review: Jason & Kyra

Jason & Kyra by Dana Davidson

SUMMARY: Jason is a basketball star and one of the most popular guys in school. Brainy Kyra isn't popular, but she doesn't much care what other people think. Under normal circumstances, Jason and Kyra would live in their separate worlds until graduation. But fate intervenes, and the unlikely duo is paired up for a class project. Although preconceived notions abound on both sides, Kyra soon realizes that Jason is not the dumb jock she anticipated. And Jason finds himself telling Kyra things he can't even tell his best friend. As the two become close and eventually start to fall in love, no one in school can believe it, especially Jason's ex-girlfriend, who is determined to get him back. Being together means navigating the obstacles that are coming their way, but staying apart may be impossible. (from the inside flap)

OPINION: In some ways, this book is typical chic-lit teen romance. Do two unlikely people fall in love? Yes. Do others try to keep them apart? Naturally. Is there a happy ending? Of course. But in other ways, this book couldn't be more different. For one thing, the characters are wealthy African-Americans in suburban Detroit. There is not too much chic-lit featuring minority characters, let alone ones that live in unromantic places like Detroit. The characters are also all talented magnet school students, with abilities in areas both athletic and academic. The plot is dramatic and really captures the angst of true love and high-school. The author knows what she is talking about...she's a teacher! (The writing style reminds me a lot of Sharon Draper, who is also a teacher.) Look for this book if you need a romantic read with some substance.