April 24, 2008
Can I tell you a secret? I hate the Gossip Girl series.
Uhh uh, Suzie, hate is such a strong word.
If I had a stronger word, I’d use it. I don’t like how it portrays youth culture, because the reality is that after working with teens for nearly two decades, I don’t recognize even one teen that I’ve met or know. It takes the problems of youth culture and wraps them in shallow characters and glitz and designer labels, glamorizing what ultimately has hurt many teens. 
But I found a series recently that has the same addictive reading style, sprinkles in the same designer labels, and is set in a posh setting with fab clothes and tricky relationships. It’s well-written, fun, gently faith-filled, and to be honest, more than a little addictive. It’s the All About Us series written by Shelley Adina.
I’m hooked. I really am. The first book is coming out in May, but I was a lucky reader because I’ve read the advance copies, All About Us: A Novel and Fruit of My Lipstick and I can’t wait to read Book 3, Be Strong and Curvaceous.
I recommend you pick up the first book when it is released on May 12! Find out more at the All About Us website where you can connect with characters Gillian, Lissa, Carly, Shani, and others.
Shelley Adina says:
Wow! Thanks, Suzanne, for sharing how you felt about the books. I’m so glad you like them! I’m having a blast with the writing and really hope girls will have as much fun with the read
Love ya,
Shelley