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You're the One That I Want
Freddie has a reputation as a ‘nice guy’ – inoffensive, sweet, kind – and therefore completely un-dateable.
As he starts sixth form, Freddie decides that this nice guy isn’t going to finish last any more. No more missing out on parties because he’s got to do his homework. No more saying no when he really wants to say yes. And most of all no more lusting after unobtainable straight boys who enjoy the attention but ultimately break his heart.
Freddie embarks on a series of changes designed to transform his social and romantic life, and suddenly he’s a drama darling, getting invited to all the popular kids’ parties, and hot new boy Zach is showing an interest. Life couldn’t be better!
But the path to love is never smooth – and Freddie’s about to learn that changing everything about yourself isn’t necessarily a foolproof way of finding the right person…
As he starts sixth form, Freddie decides that this nice guy isn’t going to finish last any more. No more missing out on parties because he’s got to do his homework. No more saying no when he really wants to say yes. And most of all no more lusting after unobtainable straight boys who enjoy the attention but ultimately break his heart.
Freddie embarks on a series of changes designed to transform his social and romantic life, and suddenly he’s a drama darling, getting invited to all the popular kids’ parties, and hot new boy Zach is showing an interest. Life couldn’t be better!
But the path to love is never smooth – and Freddie’s about to learn that changing everything about yourself isn’t necessarily a foolproof way of finding the right person…
Audio CD
First published June 3, 2021
47 people are currently reading
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About the author
Simon James Green
22 books770 followersSimon James Green grew up in a small town in Lincolnshire that definitely wasn’t the inspiration for Little Fobbing – so no-one from there can be mad with him, OK? He enjoyed a classic British education of assorted humiliations and barbaric PE lessons before reading Law at Queens’ College, Cambridge, where he further embarrassed himself by accidentally joining the rowing team despite having no upper body strength and not being able swim. When it turned out that being a lawyer was nothing like how it looks in Suits or The Good Wife, and buoyed by the success of his late night comedy show that involved an inflatable sheep, he travelled to London to pursue a glamorous career in show business. Within weeks he was working in a call centre, had been mugged, and had racked up thousands of pounds worth of debt. Finding strength and inspiration in the lyrics of "Tubthumping" by Chumbawumba, he eventually ended up working on a range of West End shows and UK tours, co-wrote a feature-length rom-com for the BBC and directed Hollyoaks for C4 / Lime Pictures. After trying really, really hard, he also managed to write Noah Can’t Even. If you are interested in stalking him, he still lives in London, where he spends a lot of time telling people that Noah Can’t Even is only partly autobiographical, and his mum has definitely never done a Beyoncé tribute act.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 242 reviews
August 14, 2021
Sometimes things do burn you. But, I think, you should be proud of those scars. They’re nothing to be ashamed of or to regret. And you can’t let the fear of more scars stop you.
Simon James Green’s books are always funny, cute, easy to read, and sometimes heartbreaking. I have to admit, I laughed less at this story than at his other books, BUT I also liked that. I liked the vulnerability of this story, Freddie who didn’t want to be invisible, his messiness, his flaws, and his growth as a character. Without spoiling anything, I wanted one particular thing happening earlier on in the story, but it’s probably part of Freddie’s growth as well 😀.
Simon James Green’s books are always funny, cute, easy to read, and sometimes heartbreaking. I have to admit, I laughed less at this story than at his other books, BUT I also liked that. I liked the vulnerability of this story, Freddie who didn’t want to be invisible, his messiness, his flaws, and his growth as a character. Without spoiling anything, I wanted one particular thing happening earlier on in the story, but it’s probably part of Freddie’s growth as well 😀.
June 11, 2021
It's safe to say Simon James Green is becoming one of my favourite authors. I don't think he could write a bad book if he tried.
You’re the One That I Want follows Freddie who's sick of being unassuming, he wants people to know who he is. So, with the help of his friends Ruby and Sam, he implements 'The Freddie Project'. Where he's going to say 'yes' and open himself up to new opportunities.
The plan has a rough start, but eventually Fred gets the hang of it. The plan leads to him being apart of his schools production of grease (well backstage after he gets major stage fright and bottles the audition), and even getting a cute boyfriend (well Zach wants to keep things 'casual' and 'fun', so nobody knows about the relationship except Ruby and Sam - still counts though, right?!).
This book was honestly so good. It deals with topics like how being gay can make it seem like you're a step behind relationship wise, because by the time you come out the straights have all this experience and you're left to play catch up and make all the mistakes others have already learned from.
My one grip with the book is that we didn't get more of Jasper. I wish he showed up more throughout the book, he and Freddie have great chemistry.
You’re the One That I Want follows Freddie who's sick of being unassuming, he wants people to know who he is. So, with the help of his friends Ruby and Sam, he implements 'The Freddie Project'. Where he's going to say 'yes' and open himself up to new opportunities.
The plan has a rough start, but eventually Fred gets the hang of it. The plan leads to him being apart of his schools production of grease (well backstage after he gets major stage fright and bottles the audition), and even getting a cute boyfriend (well Zach wants to keep things 'casual' and 'fun', so nobody knows about the relationship except Ruby and Sam - still counts though, right?!).
This book was honestly so good. It deals with topics like how being gay can make it seem like you're a step behind relationship wise, because by the time you come out the straights have all this experience and you're left to play catch up and make all the mistakes others have already learned from.
My one grip with the book is that we didn't get more of Jasper. I wish he showed up more throughout the book, he and Freddie have great chemistry.
June 14, 2021
It is currently 1:20 AM and wow… JUST WOW!! Ive read everything from Simon and I think this is genuinely my favourite book of his!!
First of all: Freddie
Gosh Freddie is genuinely the sweetest and most relatable character I’ve ever “met” if u know what I mean!! I felt so connected with him I cried my ass off when I finally finished the book
Second: The plot-twists
One of Simon his qualities are the bizarre and unexpected plot-twists in his stories and this book is FILLED with those funny plot-twists! I just couldn’t put down the book because e v e r y chapter was so good!! No wonder I finished it in 4 days ahaha :)
And last but not least: the story itself
I’m not gonna give away too much about the story because I don’t want to ruin it for anyone but oh my this story is amazing especially if u like musicals and theatre drama!! You can tell that Simon knows exactly what he was writing about. Not once did the storyline bore me and I was beyond satisfied with how it ended.
Soooo that was my attempt at writing a good review! But for real I’m so proud of Simon he keeps surprising me and I can’t wait for whatever his next book might be :)
NOW EVERYONE GO READ THIS AMAZING BOOK
First of all: Freddie
Gosh Freddie is genuinely the sweetest and most relatable character I’ve ever “met” if u know what I mean!! I felt so connected with him I cried my ass off when I finally finished the book
Second: The plot-twists
One of Simon his qualities are the bizarre and unexpected plot-twists in his stories and this book is FILLED with those funny plot-twists! I just couldn’t put down the book because e v e r y chapter was so good!! No wonder I finished it in 4 days ahaha :)
And last but not least: the story itself
I’m not gonna give away too much about the story because I don’t want to ruin it for anyone but oh my this story is amazing especially if u like musicals and theatre drama!! You can tell that Simon knows exactly what he was writing about. Not once did the storyline bore me and I was beyond satisfied with how it ended.
Soooo that was my attempt at writing a good review! But for real I’m so proud of Simon he keeps surprising me and I can’t wait for whatever his next book might be :)
NOW EVERYONE GO READ THIS AMAZING BOOK
July 10, 2021
At first I thought this was going to be just another funny rom-com, but then – to cite a meme – that escalated quickly.
This book is funny, it has all the usual Simon James Green humor. Sometimes a little bit over the top. You have to like it, I certainly do. But after about one third of the book things started to get more serious and more intense. At this point I just wanted to read on and on.
This is a gay book from a gay man. It is more than the usual “boy meets boy” romance plots. It addresses serious problems all gays have growing up, still have and probably always will. Problems like reclusiveness, body insecurities, being prone to abuse, etc. Those are of course not exclusively gay problems, but being gay works like a multiplier here.
It’s hard to describe what makes this book so special without spoiling any of it, because there are a lot of plot twists. Let’s just say, Freddie is a very relatable character. His struggles are sometimes painful to watch, but also so relatable. I also loved how the character Zach was handled, especially towards the end of the book.
The book’s not perfect. The first third was pretty average, not to say boring. But the remaining two-thirds totally made up for this.
This book is funny, it has all the usual Simon James Green humor. Sometimes a little bit over the top. You have to like it, I certainly do. But after about one third of the book things started to get more serious and more intense. At this point I just wanted to read on and on.
This is a gay book from a gay man. It is more than the usual “boy meets boy” romance plots. It addresses serious problems all gays have growing up, still have and probably always will. Problems like reclusiveness, body insecurities, being prone to abuse, etc. Those are of course not exclusively gay problems, but being gay works like a multiplier here.
It’s hard to describe what makes this book so special without spoiling any of it, because there are a lot of plot twists. Let’s just say, Freddie is a very relatable character. His struggles are sometimes painful to watch, but also so relatable. I also loved how the character Zach was handled, especially towards the end of the book.
The book’s not perfect. The first third was pretty average, not to say boring. But the remaining two-thirds totally made up for this.
May 13, 2021
Simon James Green's latest YA LGBTQ+ romance novel is one that holds such power through its use of comedy and its perfect blend of humour and strong themes that teenagers and even adults need to look into.
Young socially awkward Freddie is a nobody. His teachers forget his name, his classmates don't recognise his face and his mum is embarrassed by him. So in a last ditch attempt to be remembered by people he is challenged to say "Yes" to more opportunities.
This deal leads him into auditioning for the college production of Grease and into the arms of devilishly handsome new boy Zach.
First of all, I must say how wonderful it is to read a book featuring a very real cast of characters. All of the characters within the story hold a true sense of vulnerability about them and it was refreshing to see characters that you could envision as real people.
This book also explored some important themes through its characters that teenagers should see discussed such as :
~> exploring sexuality,
~>toxic relationships and gaslighting within a family/friendship/relationship
~> having a sense of self worth
~> recognising that flaws are okay.
Simon James Green has a way of exploring important themes whilst at the same time making these situations hilarious to read about (although I must admit I teared up at the end).
Freddie as a character was wonderful. I related to him on such a personal level (as I do with a lot of Simon James Green's characters). Being a very socially awkward person who wants nothing more than to be seen after being put down by everyone around you really struck a chord and Freddie's journey of learning to love himself and not just doing anything to please others was so powerful and I loved seeing him grow.
I adored his friendships/relationships as they were just so genuine and pure.
Simon James Green is a master of writing a well rounded, humorous and emotional, British story and I love that it is always well and truly British because as a brit I immediately feel comforted by friends calling each other kn*bs, w*nkers and d*ckheads as terms of endearment, because that's what we English people do!!
Simon James Green, you are a master. If you have not preordered or bought your copy of You're The One That I Want yet - DO IT NOW. You will not regret it.
Young socially awkward Freddie is a nobody. His teachers forget his name, his classmates don't recognise his face and his mum is embarrassed by him. So in a last ditch attempt to be remembered by people he is challenged to say "Yes" to more opportunities.
This deal leads him into auditioning for the college production of Grease and into the arms of devilishly handsome new boy Zach.
First of all, I must say how wonderful it is to read a book featuring a very real cast of characters. All of the characters within the story hold a true sense of vulnerability about them and it was refreshing to see characters that you could envision as real people.
This book also explored some important themes through its characters that teenagers should see discussed such as :
~> exploring sexuality,
~>toxic relationships and gaslighting within a family/friendship/relationship
~> having a sense of self worth
~> recognising that flaws are okay.
Simon James Green has a way of exploring important themes whilst at the same time making these situations hilarious to read about (although I must admit I teared up at the end).
Freddie as a character was wonderful. I related to him on such a personal level (as I do with a lot of Simon James Green's characters). Being a very socially awkward person who wants nothing more than to be seen after being put down by everyone around you really struck a chord and Freddie's journey of learning to love himself and not just doing anything to please others was so powerful and I loved seeing him grow.
I adored his friendships/relationships as they were just so genuine and pure.
Simon James Green is a master of writing a well rounded, humorous and emotional, British story and I love that it is always well and truly British because as a brit I immediately feel comforted by friends calling each other kn*bs, w*nkers and d*ckheads as terms of endearment, because that's what we English people do!!
Simon James Green, you are a master. If you have not preordered or bought your copy of You're The One That I Want yet - DO IT NOW. You will not regret it.
April 5, 2023
Look, I loved all of SJG books before and this one as well. We are not surprised by that point, are we? 🤷🏻♀️
I’m a total dumbass and didn’t read the blurb as usual (that’s kind of my thing you know..) and thought that this would be a Grease retelling.
Well, it wasn’t. It’s about the drama club at school doing Grease as the school musical. Makes sense. 🙃
SJG just writes the worlds best ridiculous disaster boys and I love him for that. All of his books are extremely hilarious, including a lot of secondhand embarrassment and me covering my eyes and softly whispering “no” while reading through my fingers.
Of course Freddie is one of them, and Freddie wants to change his life.
This book took on a little more serious themes than SJGs other books. It’s a take on toxic relationships, gaslighting and loving yourself the way you are.
I’m an adult now, but reading Freddie’s thoughts and feelings, his doubts, his insecurities and the way he only wanted someone to love him…my inner 16 year old cried, I remember feeling exactly the same at that age!!!
Being stupid because of someone you like, not putting yourself first, believing everything the person you fancy tells you even though you know deep down they’re lying…SO stupid. But it’s exactly what 16 year old me did.
I just wanted to hug Freddie and tell him he’s okay the way he is and that he deserves better.
I’m glad he has such amazing friends who told him exactly that. His friends were brilliant and Ruby is my queen.
I loved the way the story ended, with Freddie realising what he truly wants and fighting to get it.
A super cute and funny story, as usually, with more depth than I thought.
I’m a total dumbass and didn’t read the blurb as usual (that’s kind of my thing you know..) and thought that this would be a Grease retelling.
Well, it wasn’t. It’s about the drama club at school doing Grease as the school musical. Makes sense. 🙃
SJG just writes the worlds best ridiculous disaster boys and I love him for that. All of his books are extremely hilarious, including a lot of secondhand embarrassment and me covering my eyes and softly whispering “no” while reading through my fingers.
Of course Freddie is one of them, and Freddie wants to change his life.
This book took on a little more serious themes than SJGs other books. It’s a take on toxic relationships, gaslighting and loving yourself the way you are.
I’m an adult now, but reading Freddie’s thoughts and feelings, his doubts, his insecurities and the way he only wanted someone to love him…my inner 16 year old cried, I remember feeling exactly the same at that age!!!
Being stupid because of someone you like, not putting yourself first, believing everything the person you fancy tells you even though you know deep down they’re lying…SO stupid. But it’s exactly what 16 year old me did.
I just wanted to hug Freddie and tell him he’s okay the way he is and that he deserves better.
I’m glad he has such amazing friends who told him exactly that. His friends were brilliant and Ruby is my queen.
I loved the way the story ended, with Freddie realising what he truly wants and fighting to get it.
A super cute and funny story, as usually, with more depth than I thought.
September 3, 2022
Well there was twists i did not imagine and hated characters I didn't think I could hate. Great light read.
September 8, 2021
!THIS WAS SENT TO ME BY THE PUBLISHER TO REVIEW!
Oh my gosh! I can't get over how much I loved this book. It was hilarious with so many Laugh Out Loud moments (and yes, I actually did laugh out loud). The plot is very entertaining and captivating albeit a little predictable. Freddie is one of the sweetest and most relatable characters I've ever read about, definitely reminding me of myself during my school years.
As a huge musical theatre nerd, I loved the integration of Grease throughout this book with many anecdotes and jokes used which were very enjoyable to read. I also enjoyed the pop culture references as well as the look into minor celebrities' lives.
Overall this was a great book, highly recommend.
Oh my gosh! I can't get over how much I loved this book. It was hilarious with so many Laugh Out Loud moments (and yes, I actually did laugh out loud). The plot is very entertaining and captivating albeit a little predictable. Freddie is one of the sweetest and most relatable characters I've ever read about, definitely reminding me of myself during my school years.
As a huge musical theatre nerd, I loved the integration of Grease throughout this book with many anecdotes and jokes used which were very enjoyable to read. I also enjoyed the pop culture references as well as the look into minor celebrities' lives.
Overall this was a great book, highly recommend.
December 28, 2021
PHENOMENAL! Read this in half a day! So amazing! I have no words. The characters were all so relatable and beautiful and amazing and great! SJG made me root for so many people, only to rip my heart and then stitch it back together. Freddie is such an awkward person and soooo embarrassing! His embarrassing moments made me close the book multiple times and take a breath before continuing, while making me squeal and die in laughter. Highly recommend this to EVERYONE! 5/5⭐️s!
December 28, 2021
Don’t know if I read the same book as everyone else but yk here goes
I hated it
I hated it so much
It was so cringe I started reading a picture of Dorian gray so I could avoid reading it
No hate on Oscar Wilde but I don’t like classics so this is significant
Main character:
Kind of a “wah wah my problems are huge” mans has a tv producer mum who (although very absent) gives him moolah. Very upper middle class white boy vibes. Like yeah he has inner turmoils but we don’t get a good look at that. Like at all. We have this sorta backstory where he cries while performing but that really doesn’t give any real insight to him. Plus he’s cringe and comes off especially entitled in the beginning.
Middle class white guy/10
His besties:
He has two besties. Black girl and quiet dorky straight guy.
The black girl was like a caricature is “strong black woman yassss” almost 0 personality beyond that and I can’t even remember her name. I did remember her getting with a dude but then breaking up with him for cheating on her at a party, and then cheering main boy Freddie up with ice cream but that’s about it.
Underdeveloped/10
Dorkie quiet boy is like…. Barely there. He has probably the most development and the least lines ngl. He goes from insecure to less insecure. He probably says a total of maybe 20 words. He has kinky sex with a girl he met bc she wanted “method acting” bc they were both quiet kids in the play and “it’s always the quiet ones 😏” he gives a condom to the main character when fred is with Zach and tryna smash. That (along with him telling Freddie that he was having very kinky sex) was his most memorable scene.
Kinky/10
Freddie then has 2 relationships through the book
One with Zach
Takes up the majority of the book but ultimately ends bc zach cheats on fredman. Biggest plot twist was that he was actually using fredman to cheat on jock boy and then cheated on jock boy again with theatre gay. And jock boy was Fredmans crush and dating entitled rich girl (cheating on her with Zach)
The most interesting thing about zach was who he was fucking let’s be honest
Zach has *drumroll please* forgettable personality beyond “charming boy who seduced every fucking actor in the play”
Is the sweet-guy/sarcastic arsehole
One like from the book is “is there *anyone* on set Zach hasn’t exchanged bodily fluids with”
The answer was: not many
His justifications for everything were bs too. Won’t even get into that.
Manwhore/10
And then Freddie gets with another dude right by the end (real third-act conflict vibes)
They interact at the start in a bad way (enemies to lovers apparently???)
Then dude is mentioned in passing throughout the book
They interact 2 more times before exchanging numbers in the second half of the book
Become friends (good friends apparently… over the span of like a week)
And then get together in the last chapter
The last chapter was my favourite btw
Overall
Forgettable/10
I’d have preferred it if the story was just Freddie the gay loner gets with toxic man zach. He realises zach is toxic, gets some friends and grows some actual balls and breaks up with toxic man zach after some personal growth and then just… doesn’t get with anyone else.
If you like it you like it though ig
I hated it
I hated it so much
It was so cringe I started reading a picture of Dorian gray so I could avoid reading it
No hate on Oscar Wilde but I don’t like classics so this is significant
Main character:
Kind of a “wah wah my problems are huge” mans has a tv producer mum who (although very absent) gives him moolah. Very upper middle class white boy vibes. Like yeah he has inner turmoils but we don’t get a good look at that. Like at all. We have this sorta backstory where he cries while performing but that really doesn’t give any real insight to him. Plus he’s cringe and comes off especially entitled in the beginning.
Middle class white guy/10
His besties:
He has two besties. Black girl and quiet dorky straight guy.
The black girl was like a caricature is “strong black woman yassss” almost 0 personality beyond that and I can’t even remember her name. I did remember her getting with a dude but then breaking up with him for cheating on her at a party, and then cheering main boy Freddie up with ice cream but that’s about it.
Underdeveloped/10
Dorkie quiet boy is like…. Barely there. He has probably the most development and the least lines ngl. He goes from insecure to less insecure. He probably says a total of maybe 20 words. He has kinky sex with a girl he met bc she wanted “method acting” bc they were both quiet kids in the play and “it’s always the quiet ones 😏” he gives a condom to the main character when fred is with Zach and tryna smash. That (along with him telling Freddie that he was having very kinky sex) was his most memorable scene.
Kinky/10
Freddie then has 2 relationships through the book
One with Zach
Takes up the majority of the book but ultimately ends bc zach cheats on fredman. Biggest plot twist was that he was actually using fredman to cheat on jock boy and then cheated on jock boy again with theatre gay. And jock boy was Fredmans crush and dating entitled rich girl (cheating on her with Zach)
The most interesting thing about zach was who he was fucking let’s be honest
Zach has *drumroll please* forgettable personality beyond “charming boy who seduced every fucking actor in the play”
Is the sweet-guy/sarcastic arsehole
One like from the book is “is there *anyone* on set Zach hasn’t exchanged bodily fluids with”
The answer was: not many
His justifications for everything were bs too. Won’t even get into that.
Manwhore/10
And then Freddie gets with another dude right by the end (real third-act conflict vibes)
They interact at the start in a bad way (enemies to lovers apparently???)
Then dude is mentioned in passing throughout the book
They interact 2 more times before exchanging numbers in the second half of the book
Become friends (good friends apparently… over the span of like a week)
And then get together in the last chapter
The last chapter was my favourite btw
Overall
Forgettable/10
I’d have preferred it if the story was just Freddie the gay loner gets with toxic man zach. He realises zach is toxic, gets some friends and grows some actual balls and breaks up with toxic man zach after some personal growth and then just… doesn’t get with anyone else.
If you like it you like it though ig
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 14, 2023
The best book I have read so far this year. It was amazing and I loved the message that the book tried to showcase: Just being yourself is enough.
April 30, 2022
This was my least favorite SJG book so far, but still a good laugh and definitely still an auto buy author. Very cute. Just a messy plot. But also I understand why it’s messy because the character explained it??? Idk just didn’t love it. But would still highly recommend the author. ❤️
November 22, 2024
Another amazing book by Simon James Green!
It has the captivating elements which make Simon's books so good (awkward shy boy, mother with a very...colorful personality, struggling with relatable issues, overcoming insecurities), the unique humour, and adds some new elements: the musical/theatre scene (and the pop culture references!) and the message of loving yourself for who you are and finding someone who loves you for this!
After re-read: The high school theater drama is comedy gold!
It has the captivating elements which make Simon's books so good (awkward shy boy, mother with a very...colorful personality, struggling with relatable issues, overcoming insecurities), the unique humour, and adds some new elements: the musical/theatre scene (and the pop culture references!) and the message of loving yourself for who you are and finding someone who loves you for this!
After re-read: The high school theater drama is comedy gold!
October 29, 2024
Unfortunately my least favourite Simon James Green book, though still a 3.5 star read. I love Green's writing style, but maybe found this one a little more... crude than usual? How many pen*s jokes can one book have, especially within the first fifty pages?
I'm not a theatre kid and my school's performance of Grease sent me to sleep back in year eleven, but I enjoyed the rivalry and drama, the utter chaos and confusion of putting on a musical with a school's most competitive set of kids. I found Freddie likeable, as all of Green's characters are, and honestly felt a little sorry for him most of the time - he really didn't have much luck.
I love Green's other works, so I feel comfortable saying that the style, pacing and love story just didn't quite work for me. It felt a little too insta-love and polished to be... well, swoon-worthy. I love the awkwardness and rawness of his other books, but this one didn't quite hit the mark.
I'm not a theatre kid and my school's performance of Grease sent me to sleep back in year eleven, but I enjoyed the rivalry and drama, the utter chaos and confusion of putting on a musical with a school's most competitive set of kids. I found Freddie likeable, as all of Green's characters are, and honestly felt a little sorry for him most of the time - he really didn't have much luck.
I love Green's other works, so I feel comfortable saying that the style, pacing and love story just didn't quite work for me. It felt a little too insta-love and polished to be... well, swoon-worthy. I love the awkwardness and rawness of his other books, but this one didn't quite hit the mark.
November 26, 2021
4.5 stars. Perhaps it’s because I read it at the right time, but You’re The One That I Want is everything I could have wanted in a gay YA romcom.
September 30, 2024
An absolute riot. This may be the first YA "rom-com" I've read where i actually laughed outloud—and A LOT. The self-deprecating narrator never veers into painful cringe but instead, flings himself into fatalistic Alwayses and Nevers in a way that is both equally concerned with how he's perceived and completely obvious to it, and it is 100% lovable. I enjoyed the unusual pacing/structure of the story and the unexpected turns it was able to take. And though elements of the end felt more hyperreal/fake then necessary, I loved where the story took the characters, leaving space for different kinds of connection, growth, and relationships.
This is my second Simon James Green read. I feel like these books should be list-toppers, but, although they're well reviewed, they seem to be flying a bit under the radar. Are they just not well-promoted in the US? Because I haven't enjoyed anything quite in the way I've enjoyed "One That I Want" and "Heartbreak Boys" and I'm looking forward to getting ahold of the "Noah" books. And I've been waiting almost a year for my library to purchase its "ordered" copy of "Boy Like Me" that I have on hold. More access to Simon James Green please!
[Hilarious and pitch perfect audiobook narration by Philip Battley]
This is my second Simon James Green read. I feel like these books should be list-toppers, but, although they're well reviewed, they seem to be flying a bit under the radar. Are they just not well-promoted in the US? Because I haven't enjoyed anything quite in the way I've enjoyed "One That I Want" and "Heartbreak Boys" and I'm looking forward to getting ahold of the "Noah" books. And I've been waiting almost a year for my library to purchase its "ordered" copy of "Boy Like Me" that I have on hold. More access to Simon James Green please!
[Hilarious and pitch perfect audiobook narration by Philip Battley]
December 6, 2021
This was hilarious and lighthearted and exactly what I needed to lighten the stress of finals season. A bunch of British teens doing a production of Grease? I laughed at the drama, I cried at the self discovery, I grimaced at main man Freddie because he is the best sort of cringey. Will definitely be picking up more Simon James Green!
September 11, 2021
You’re the One That I Want is my most anticipated book of 2021, I am a huge fan of Simon James Green’s writing and humour so I absolutely could not wait to read this!
The laughs begin right from the get-go, with wall-to-wall cringe and hilarity. So many times I was actually laughing out loud, even later in the day, I would remember something I’d read and start laughing again. If you ever need a pick-me-up this book is for you!
The author writes his characters so well, you feel for them, relate to them, and see the world through their eyes. Teenage me would have loved to be friends with Freddie, he is so likeable, if a bit tragic! The way he overthinks the things he says and does, feeling that he must have done something wrong, believing that he needs to behave in a certain way to get and ‘keep’ a boyfriend is so very real and my heart went out to him in those moments.
Jasper was a kn*b, Zach detestable, but Ruby and Sam were there for Freddie when he needed them. They all worked well together and their interactions felt completely real. This is something I find some authors seem to have difficulty with, from my experience as the mum of a teenage boy and working in a secondary school with others, Simon gets the ‘teen voice’ perfect.
The plot is amazing, set around the students and an upcoming performance of Grease. We see the highs and lows of friendships, relationships, hook-ups, feelings of inadequacy, and finally being comfortable with being yourself. I enjoyed that whilst some characters on the surface seemed to be (and act like) twonks, we were shown the reasons behind this as their stories played out, empathy was built and redemption given. I loved Freddie’s relationship with his mum, when they were together I loved the way they spoke to each other, taking the mickey out of each other, and how their relationship progressed and changed.
This is a brilliantly funny, laugh out loud read. Would recommend to all!
Thank you so, so much to Scholastic and Harriet Dunlea for the proof copy and to Simon James Green for writing another epic book!
The laughs begin right from the get-go, with wall-to-wall cringe and hilarity. So many times I was actually laughing out loud, even later in the day, I would remember something I’d read and start laughing again. If you ever need a pick-me-up this book is for you!
The author writes his characters so well, you feel for them, relate to them, and see the world through their eyes. Teenage me would have loved to be friends with Freddie, he is so likeable, if a bit tragic! The way he overthinks the things he says and does, feeling that he must have done something wrong, believing that he needs to behave in a certain way to get and ‘keep’ a boyfriend is so very real and my heart went out to him in those moments.
Jasper was a kn*b, Zach detestable, but Ruby and Sam were there for Freddie when he needed them. They all worked well together and their interactions felt completely real. This is something I find some authors seem to have difficulty with, from my experience as the mum of a teenage boy and working in a secondary school with others, Simon gets the ‘teen voice’ perfect.
The plot is amazing, set around the students and an upcoming performance of Grease. We see the highs and lows of friendships, relationships, hook-ups, feelings of inadequacy, and finally being comfortable with being yourself. I enjoyed that whilst some characters on the surface seemed to be (and act like) twonks, we were shown the reasons behind this as their stories played out, empathy was built and redemption given. I loved Freddie’s relationship with his mum, when they were together I loved the way they spoke to each other, taking the mickey out of each other, and how their relationship progressed and changed.
This is a brilliantly funny, laugh out loud read. Would recommend to all!
Thank you so, so much to Scholastic and Harriet Dunlea for the proof copy and to Simon James Green for writing another epic book!
June 21, 2021
You’re The One That I Want - @simonjamesgreen
This is the first book I’ve read by Simon James Green and it will not be the last!
It was a story about first loves (that I think many of us will relate to) with hilarious anecdotes, delicious donuts and relatable tropes.
This is the first book I’ve read by Simon James Green and it will not be the last!
It was a story about first loves (that I think many of us will relate to) with hilarious anecdotes, delicious donuts and relatable tropes.
February 20, 2022
3.8
okay i was going to rate it four but i felt like i just didn’t like some parts for it to deserve that four star rating? (still considering tho)
i think the mc was relatable but i guess he was written in a way where the author tried to make him too quirky and embarrassing where he messes up every single thing he does and say and it just turns out kind of annoying. I didn’t like how easily he forgave people but maybe it’s just me because i am a hold ‘grudges-type’ of person.
The red flags. definitely saw it while reading and the person with the red flags made me quite mad at parts. i wish he didn’t get some sort of redemption too fast. It just felt undeserved and if it were to be looked in a realistic point of view, no person would resolve it by themselves that quickly.
I did love the progression of the official romance where it’s all about not judging a book by it’s cover and having to see what people truly are. It was nice and wholesome.
I love Jasper
I did think the side characters were much more interesting. Ruby was an AMAZING character and i think everyone wishes they were her. I wish we got more Sam because he is like that token goofy side character that everyone loves.
Overall i loved the lesson this book gave and as someone who wants to get out of their comfort zone i felt like i needed to read this book. It’s about being yourself and how trying to be someone you’re not doesn’t really work out for you or for anyone really. It’s kind of like a coming of age book in some sense.
a+ for mommy issues
The book had tons of humor, fast paced, could’ve finished in one day if i was in the mood to read yesterday, short chapters, overall a really solid book.
okay i was going to rate it four but i felt like i just didn’t like some parts for it to deserve that four star rating? (still considering tho)
i think the mc was relatable but i guess he was written in a way where the author tried to make him too quirky and embarrassing where he messes up every single thing he does and say and it just turns out kind of annoying. I didn’t like how easily he forgave people but maybe it’s just me because i am a hold ‘grudges-type’ of person.
The red flags. definitely saw it while reading and the person with the red flags made me quite mad at parts. i wish he didn’t get some sort of redemption too fast. It just felt undeserved and if it were to be looked in a realistic point of view, no person would resolve it by themselves that quickly.
I did love the progression of the official romance where it’s all about not judging a book by it’s cover and having to see what people truly are. It was nice and wholesome.
I love Jasper
I did think the side characters were much more interesting. Ruby was an AMAZING character and i think everyone wishes they were her. I wish we got more Sam because he is like that token goofy side character that everyone loves.
Overall i loved the lesson this book gave and as someone who wants to get out of their comfort zone i felt like i needed to read this book. It’s about being yourself and how trying to be someone you’re not doesn’t really work out for you or for anyone really. It’s kind of like a coming of age book in some sense.
a+ for mommy issues
The book had tons of humor, fast paced, could’ve finished in one day if i was in the mood to read yesterday, short chapters, overall a really solid book.
August 22, 2023
I liked this well enough but the ending felt very abrupt.
April 2, 2022
If High School Musical The Musical The Series took place in a London school and the protagonists were gay, you'd get this wonderful teen romance based around a production of Grease. The narrator is funny, his neuroses and overthinking all too familiar. The plot includes funny situations, and you can't help hoping he gets the one that he wants -- whomever that turns out to be. A lovely read. I wish I'd had this book when I was taking part in school productions about a thousand years ago.
June 19, 2021
I love Simon James Green's books. That's no news; read them all, loved them all. So it's no surprise I absolutely loved this one. His books has a tendency to go different ways if compared to other YA contemporaries. His loves stories are not straightforward, they don't follow the usual tropes and cliches of all the other books I've read so far. Basically, you don't know what to expect. And it's AMAZING! I laughed so much, like full of giggles and loud HAs. I never knew what was going to happen; I gasped, yes, I gasped at some twists and I screamed I KNEW IT at some others. And no matter what my expectations were, this story went far beyond them I was glued to the pages. I finished it in an afternoon like I usually do with his books.
Freddie is a walking gay disaster; his life is full of equal parts anonymity and full on cringe worthy moments. So many embarrassing moments, so awkward I got goosebumps only reading them. But just like all SJG main characters, Freddie is trying his best even with a life saying he is kind of useless. After a very embarrassing encounter with super hot Jasper, one of the actor's of his mum's new tv show, Freddie decides is time to turn his life around and what better way to do that than to start saying YES to what life offers him?
Well, it's not always the best and this new YES life starts a chain of events unlike any other. He meets new boy Zach, who is handsome and maybe interested, and he gets involved in the school production of Grease along with his best friends Ruby and Sam. Freddie's friends, specially Sam, need to have their own short story spin-off. I need to know what happened to them (to Sam because THINGS!) while Freddie was freaking out about his love life and life in general.
Another win from Simon James Green and I still can't stop smiling thinking about everything that happened. It was all pleasantly unexpected, hilarious, sex positive, it felt so real and so utterly ridiculous that I totally see this as a TV show; it'll be such an amazing show that needs to happen!
Freddie is a walking gay disaster; his life is full of equal parts anonymity and full on cringe worthy moments. So many embarrassing moments, so awkward I got goosebumps only reading them. But just like all SJG main characters, Freddie is trying his best even with a life saying he is kind of useless. After a very embarrassing encounter with super hot Jasper, one of the actor's of his mum's new tv show, Freddie decides is time to turn his life around and what better way to do that than to start saying YES to what life offers him?
Well, it's not always the best and this new YES life starts a chain of events unlike any other. He meets new boy Zach, who is handsome and maybe interested, and he gets involved in the school production of Grease along with his best friends Ruby and Sam. Freddie's friends, specially Sam, need to have their own short story spin-off. I need to know what happened to them (to Sam because THINGS!) while Freddie was freaking out about his love life and life in general.
Another win from Simon James Green and I still can't stop smiling thinking about everything that happened. It was all pleasantly unexpected, hilarious, sex positive, it felt so real and so utterly ridiculous that I totally see this as a TV show; it'll be such an amazing show that needs to happen!
July 26, 2021
Simon James Green may as well have gone back in time, ripped my gay-ass out of high school in 2007 and made me a senior in 2021 because this book is just dripping with what I wish my high school experience was like.
Freddie is such a relatable character for me. He made me laugh out loud (to the dismay of my sleeping husband), cry, and cringe, Just when I thought Freddie was just going to go through one bad high school cliche after another, he does something that just warms my cold, jaded heart right up.
This might be one of my favorite books this year.
Freddie is such a relatable character for me. He made me laugh out loud (to the dismay of my sleeping husband), cry, and cringe, Just when I thought Freddie was just going to go through one bad high school cliche after another, he does something that just warms my cold, jaded heart right up.
This might be one of my favorite books this year.
January 2, 2022
The Awkward...It Burns!
Okay, not really, but I related far too well with Freddie in this book. As always, Simon James Green pours a ton of heart into his work. You're the One that I Want continues that great trend of intense crushes and clumsy flirting that felt far too familiar from my teen years. It's funny and cute, a perfect read.
I especially love that he writes these great books about gay teens with gay teen angst that don't focus on gay trauma (coming out, family acceptance, etc.).
I loved this one and can't wait to read whatever he comes up with next.
Okay, not really, but I related far too well with Freddie in this book. As always, Simon James Green pours a ton of heart into his work. You're the One that I Want continues that great trend of intense crushes and clumsy flirting that felt far too familiar from my teen years. It's funny and cute, a perfect read.
I especially love that he writes these great books about gay teens with gay teen angst that don't focus on gay trauma (coming out, family acceptance, etc.).
I loved this one and can't wait to read whatever he comes up with next.
July 11, 2021
I absolutely adore Simon James Green's books! They are always a great fun to read, and this one didn't disappoint!
I love Freddie so so much, he is such a sweetheart! I am glad that he learned his lesson and he started to love himself as well.
The theatre kids drama was hilarious, made me laugh so hard.
I liked the proper romance bit, but would love a bit more of it. I think it happened a bit to late in the book.
Oh, and Zach is a plonker and I don't like him at all.
I love Freddie so so much, he is such a sweetheart! I am glad that he learned his lesson and he started to love himself as well.
The theatre kids drama was hilarious, made me laugh so hard.
I liked the proper romance bit, but would love a bit more of it. I think it happened a bit to late in the book.
Oh, and Zach is a plonker and I don't like him at all.
October 10, 2021
terrible, but it had its moments
November 11, 2022
This book was amazing. It was my first time reading a Simon James Green book and it's fair to say, I may (definitely will) have to borrow my friends copy of Gay Club.
"You're the One That I Want" follows a teenage boy named Freddie, who after living a life in the shadows, want to be noticed. His friends start the "Freddie Project" a project meaning Freddie has to say yes....to everything, in order to find more opportunities in life. So when his friends and him see a poster for the school's production, Freddie decides to give it a try. This is mainly due to a new boy, Zach, who Freddie develops feelings for. However romance isn't plain sailing for Freddie, and say 'yes' doesn't always end in love.
Freddie was a great character. Honestly, he was so raw and true and didn't shy away from teenage life and hormones whilst also being gay and awkward. I really wanted everything to work out for him. He had a real journey of self discovery and learning to love yourself for who you are, not who other people think you are. He was powerful and I loved to see him grow and find love.
"Sometimes things do burn you. But, I think, you should be proud of those scars. They’re nothing to be ashamed of or to regret. And you can’t let the fear of more scars stop you."
His friends and all the other drama was addictive too. There is never a dull moment in the book as there is always something going on. One dynamic I really liked was between Freddie and his mum. For his whole life, since Freddie was in Les Mis as a child, all he ever wanted was to make his mum proud. To see how this relationship progressed made me happy by the end of the book.
Overall such a fantastic book tackling queer love, growing up, and finding your true self. Amazing and definitely a book you should read.
"But, like you said, there's also magic in the ordinary, and sometimes it's OK to be on the sidelines, doing nothing, watching life go by. That's why I'm not bothered about the part. Because if I'm with you, whatever we're doing, even if it's nothing much, I'll be happy."
"You're the One That I Want" follows a teenage boy named Freddie, who after living a life in the shadows, want to be noticed. His friends start the "Freddie Project" a project meaning Freddie has to say yes....to everything, in order to find more opportunities in life. So when his friends and him see a poster for the school's production, Freddie decides to give it a try. This is mainly due to a new boy, Zach, who Freddie develops feelings for. However romance isn't plain sailing for Freddie, and say 'yes' doesn't always end in love.
Freddie was a great character. Honestly, he was so raw and true and didn't shy away from teenage life and hormones whilst also being gay and awkward. I really wanted everything to work out for him. He had a real journey of self discovery and learning to love yourself for who you are, not who other people think you are. He was powerful and I loved to see him grow and find love.
"Sometimes things do burn you. But, I think, you should be proud of those scars. They’re nothing to be ashamed of or to regret. And you can’t let the fear of more scars stop you."
His friends and all the other drama was addictive too. There is never a dull moment in the book as there is always something going on. One dynamic I really liked was between Freddie and his mum. For his whole life, since Freddie was in Les Mis as a child, all he ever wanted was to make his mum proud. To see how this relationship progressed made me happy by the end of the book.
Overall such a fantastic book tackling queer love, growing up, and finding your true self. Amazing and definitely a book you should read.
"But, like you said, there's also magic in the ordinary, and sometimes it's OK to be on the sidelines, doing nothing, watching life go by. That's why I'm not bothered about the part. Because if I'm with you, whatever we're doing, even if it's nothing much, I'll be happy."
August 19, 2022
Ohhhhhh my goodness! Where on earth do I start? Simon James Green is very quickly becoming a favourite of mine for writing awkward geeky gay characters, because guess what? I too am awkward and, geeky and gay. I can relate to the characters - cringe at the things they say, because yes, I too would have definitely said them too haha.
This book - You're The One That I want, spoke to me and my big theatre geek. The way he managed to get all the angst and terror of performing ON STAGE and the fear of learning lines and the utter b!tch!ness that goes on backstage was perfection! And then the way he mixes the plots and subplots was marvellous.
Freddie just wants to be noticed by his big time TV exec mum... oh, and the cute new boy at school. After a rather embarrassing situation with a seemingly stuck up actor at a party, Freddie decides to say "YES" to everything - which includes him signing up to the Sixth Form school production of Grease - being spearheaded by the teacher who 'was once on the west end' (Gosh, I've had my fair share of THOSE acting coaches - and some of the games they played were exactly the same, it was like I was right back in it!) - So Freddie says YES to being in the production to the new cute guy who just so happens to be one hell of an actor. And does Freddie oversell his acting ability? Absolutely! Freddie's friends are great - Ruby and Sam - they keep him grounded and they all enter the YES pact together.
I won't say anymore otherwise I'll be delving into Spoiler City.
The book is hilarious, heartfelt, and I was up ALL NIGHT promising myself '"just one more chapter."
Go read it! It's brilliant!
This book - You're The One That I want, spoke to me and my big theatre geek. The way he managed to get all the angst and terror of performing ON STAGE and the fear of learning lines and the utter b!tch!ness that goes on backstage was perfection! And then the way he mixes the plots and subplots was marvellous.
Freddie just wants to be noticed by his big time TV exec mum... oh, and the cute new boy at school. After a rather embarrassing situation with a seemingly stuck up actor at a party, Freddie decides to say "YES" to everything - which includes him signing up to the Sixth Form school production of Grease - being spearheaded by the teacher who 'was once on the west end' (Gosh, I've had my fair share of THOSE acting coaches - and some of the games they played were exactly the same, it was like I was right back in it!) - So Freddie says YES to being in the production to the new cute guy who just so happens to be one hell of an actor. And does Freddie oversell his acting ability? Absolutely! Freddie's friends are great - Ruby and Sam - they keep him grounded and they all enter the YES pact together.
I won't say anymore otherwise I'll be delving into Spoiler City.
The book is hilarious, heartfelt, and I was up ALL NIGHT promising myself '"just one more chapter."
Go read it! It's brilliant!
July 29, 2021
While it did feel like some of the secondary characters got lost, this story was so much fun and the core romance to it was so great as it showed that first love isn't what it's cracked up to be sometimes and that what you actually need has been in front of you all along. This has SJG's signature humour and was very enjoyable!
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