Friends Like These

Freshly landed in stifling summer bustle of 1980's New York, Beth is one of four students on a prestigious journalism internship. Along with the others - intense and ruthless Dan, preppy, good-looking Oliver and wild and troubled rich girl, Edie, she experiences the thrills and fears of work, independence and relationships. Forming an almost suffocating bond with Edie, Beth tries to balance work with the heady freedom of city living and Edie's tumultuous home and love life.

This is another beautifully written and evocative book from the peerless YA author Meg Rosoff. The sweltering New York summer and the gritty urban background are central to the feel of the book - Beth is often hot, awkward and uncomfortable. But her measured way of thinking is her saving grace in a confused and heady atmosphere where lies and betrayals ultimately surface.

Although we gain some insight into the other characters, this is really Beth’s story - an intoxicating mix of love, friendship and learning over one unforgettable summer.

320 pages / Reviewed by Clark Wilkins, school librarian

Suggested Reading Age 14+

Set in the summer of 1983, an ambitious intern, Beth, sets out in New York - alone, and unaware of some aspects of the New York way of life. With a place to stay in the sweltering heat in an apartment infested with cockroaches, a keen Beth befriends an outgoing, chaotic Edie. Whilst all seems good with Beth moving in with Edie, this friendship grows and so does Beth's relationship with Tom. But as the summer goes on, the trail of lies and betrayal unwind.

This novel gives aspects of New York life during the 1980s including topics which were raised at the time. This book shows the journey of friendship, betrayal and love.

320 pages / Reviewed by Morgan Harkin

Suggested Reading Age 14+