"A raw and resonant debut novel" (Megan McCafferty) and a vivid portrait of life on a modern college campus. College senior Natalie Bloom is beautiful and ambitious, but also painfully insecure. At twenty, she's still a virgin, never even having had a boyfriend. At school, Natalie hides out most weekends in the library--until she meets Patrick, her fantasy (she thinks) of a cultured, intellectual Prince Charming. But the more time they spend together, the more Patrick brings out her worst insecurities. And before Natalie's ready, she winds up losing her virginity-- and her sense of direction, as her emotional responses take a dangerously self-destructive turn. Soon it'll take only the most extreme measures to reclaim her sense of self, her confidence, and her ambition. Insightful, moving, and achingly self-aware, College Girl is an intensely real portrait of a character whose insecurities are recognizable to us all, and of a time of life that changes everything.
I just read the hardcover version of this book and loved it. I get why people say the main character is "whiny," but I think even the author gets that. The fact is, how many twenty-year olds aren't whiny? I think Weitz did a great job at depicting the discomfort with self that is true for so many young women, myself included, and I think by the end the character isn't whiny and has successfully made the long journey to finding a better self. That's my take, anyway.
Excellent Read!
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 15 years ago
Many young girls can relate to this book. I know that I can and have had many of the experiences that the central character has had. I liked that the writer took her time in leading the reader down the path of Natalie's emotional development and strengthening of her self-esteem...many writers rush that and want the female character to be strong right away. I love the parallels between Natalie and the "image" she created of her brother Jacob that she lost. A phenomenal read. Oh yeah...I SO KNEW that Jack was going to end up being the better guy from the moment she Natalie sees him at the party and she is with Patrick. Loved this book, could not put it down. A great read for any co-ed or anyone who likes the modern coming of age type novels.
Heartbreaking
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 15 years ago
A fast read, but difficult at times because the heroine abuses herself so much. Still, Natalie's story really touched me.
Moving
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 15 years ago
Anyone who has ever acted stupidly while in love with the wrong person will appreciate this novel. I loved it.
Every woman must read this book!
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 15 years ago
This book is a must read for every woman, even if they've never been a "college girl" themselves. Patricia Weitz has reached out to every woman who has ever been insecure about themselves in the presence of a potential lover, and with every pore in her body screams, "I understand!!!". If you have never been in Natalie's shoes, you have undoubtedly been close to someone who has. This story does not wimp out, and it does not disappoint. Read it, get your friends, sisters, and daughters to read it, then prepare to have some very real discussions!
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