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You Can't Catch Me
My body suuuucks. After lounging around on my butt all summer (okay, so maybe that was my bad), this body decided to become something completely foreign. So now I’m trying to make the track team and I feel like I’m a baby learning to walk again.
A couple pounds wouldn’t have been so bad. Work those off, run like a mad woman, no problem, yeah? But no. I’ve also developed a couple of things that I definitely didn’t have before. And now my guy friends are all sitting in a pool of drool as they not-so-subtly stare at my chest.
Combine all that drama with the fact that the new track coach is getting major flack for being a little chunky, and all I’m trying to do is convince the team that I’m not running slower because of her coaching style.
Oh, and did I mention that I’m totally falling face-first in “like” with some guy I met in a cemetery? And no one understands it just because he’s also a little chunky. But he’s also adorable and wonderfully weird and I don’t care what they say, his look sure does it for me.
But… I don’t know… how can I be in “like” with someone, when I have no clue how to like myself anymore?
A couple pounds wouldn’t have been so bad. Work those off, run like a mad woman, no problem, yeah? But no. I’ve also developed a couple of things that I definitely didn’t have before. And now my guy friends are all sitting in a pool of drool as they not-so-subtly stare at my chest.
Combine all that drama with the fact that the new track coach is getting major flack for being a little chunky, and all I’m trying to do is convince the team that I’m not running slower because of her coaching style.
Oh, and did I mention that I’m totally falling face-first in “like” with some guy I met in a cemetery? And no one understands it just because he’s also a little chunky. But he’s also adorable and wonderfully weird and I don’t care what they say, his look sure does it for me.
But… I don’t know… how can I be in “like” with someone, when I have no clue how to like myself anymore?
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First published March 28, 2016
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About the author
Cassie Mae
46 books1,148 followersCASSIE MAE is the author of a few hundred—okay, maybe not that many—books, some of which became popular for their quirky titles, characters, and stories. She likes writing about nerds, geeks, the awkward, the fluffy, the short, the shy, the loud, the fun.
Since publishing her bestselling debut, Reasons I Fell for the Funny Fat Friend, she’s signed several Romance titles with Random House Loveswept, and founded CookieLynn Publishing Services. She is represented by Sharon Pelletier at Dystel & Goderich Literary Management.
Along with writing, Cassie likes to binge-watch Once Upon a Time and The Flash. She can quote Harry Potter lines quick as a whip. And she likes kissing her hubby, but only if his facial hair is trimmed. She also likes cheesecake to a very obsessive degree.
You can stalk, talk, or send pictures of Luke Bryan to her on her Facebook page.
cassiemaeauthor.com
Facebook.com/cassiemaeauthor
Since publishing her bestselling debut, Reasons I Fell for the Funny Fat Friend, she’s signed several Romance titles with Random House Loveswept, and founded CookieLynn Publishing Services. She is represented by Sharon Pelletier at Dystel & Goderich Literary Management.
Along with writing, Cassie likes to binge-watch Once Upon a Time and The Flash. She can quote Harry Potter lines quick as a whip. And she likes kissing her hubby, but only if his facial hair is trimmed. She also likes cheesecake to a very obsessive degree.
You can stalk, talk, or send pictures of Luke Bryan to her on her Facebook page.
cassiemaeauthor.com
Facebook.com/cassiemaeauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
March 28, 2016
THREE I WANT TO BE CAUGHT STARS.
"how can I be in “like” with someone, when I have no clue how to like myself anymore?"
Cassie Mae is my comedy, young adult go to author. Her books are always positive, hilarious and filled to the brim with affirming words for her audience. 'You can't catch me' is full of quirky cheaper titles, heart felt moments and humour by the dumper truck full. This book is definitely a young adult dream and it's safe to say that I can liken it the reading equivalent of a chocoholic fix; gooey, sweet and delightful.
Why not five?
Cassie Mae has one liners that would keep me entertained for days. Her books always manage to pull out the inner teen in me that would have been desperate to fall in love with her characters and plot. But the 'me' of today wanted a little more romance and relationship development. You could say that I knew what I'd signed up for reading a Young adult story. And the answer to that is simply, yes i was well aware. However, I needed that something more to make me feel connected to the story and it's characters. And although I applauded the author for her heartfelt and well received message about body image and self love for entertainment purposes I needed something more to hang my hat on. Overall this was a thoroughly likeable book, that made me smile and chuckle at all the right spots and for that alone it was worth spending my time with. Sadly, this time around it just didn't make me sit up and take notice, but don't fear it won't be long again until Cassie Mae is impressing the socks off me.
Final thoughts ...
If you are looking for a sweet, young adult book with plenty of comedy value then you have certainly arrived at the right place. 'You can't catch me' has a great balance of originality and comfort and certainly sends an adorable message about love and friendship to those who are lucky enough to read it. This author will always remain one of my favourites and yet again she has managed to create a world with equally loveable characters that deserve to be read about. Enjoy ... Kisses.
**ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.**
"how can I be in “like” with someone, when I have no clue how to like myself anymore?"
Cassie Mae is my comedy, young adult go to author. Her books are always positive, hilarious and filled to the brim with affirming words for her audience. 'You can't catch me' is full of quirky cheaper titles, heart felt moments and humour by the dumper truck full. This book is definitely a young adult dream and it's safe to say that I can liken it the reading equivalent of a chocoholic fix; gooey, sweet and delightful.
Why not five?
Cassie Mae has one liners that would keep me entertained for days. Her books always manage to pull out the inner teen in me that would have been desperate to fall in love with her characters and plot. But the 'me' of today wanted a little more romance and relationship development. You could say that I knew what I'd signed up for reading a Young adult story. And the answer to that is simply, yes i was well aware. However, I needed that something more to make me feel connected to the story and it's characters. And although I applauded the author for her heartfelt and well received message about body image and self love for entertainment purposes I needed something more to hang my hat on. Overall this was a thoroughly likeable book, that made me smile and chuckle at all the right spots and for that alone it was worth spending my time with. Sadly, this time around it just didn't make me sit up and take notice, but don't fear it won't be long again until Cassie Mae is impressing the socks off me.
Final thoughts ...
If you are looking for a sweet, young adult book with plenty of comedy value then you have certainly arrived at the right place. 'You can't catch me' has a great balance of originality and comfort and certainly sends an adorable message about love and friendship to those who are lucky enough to read it. This author will always remain one of my favourites and yet again she has managed to create a world with equally loveable characters that deserve to be read about. Enjoy ... Kisses.
**ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.**
Read
March 28, 2016I stayed up all night reading this because it was delivered to my Kindle at midnight.
So this is me for the rest of the day.
Review to come!
So this is me for the rest of the day.
Review to come!
May 2, 2016
5 Platypires for You Can't Catch Me by Cassie Mae
"And your handwriting is incredibly… non-loopy.”“Non-loopy?” “It was my substitute for saying it’s not very—”“Girly?”“Yes.” He laughs, and that adorable as all heck blush goes through his ears. “It’s like Lucida Sans when most girls have Lucida Handwriting.”"
I swear I think Cassie Mae can read my mind or she maybe can time travel. Cause I feel like she knows what I went though my teen years. Seriously, she writes characters that are so relatable and realistic that you'll feel like someone is holding mirror to your very own life.
You can't Catch me is story about a girl who develops but mother nature decided to give her a lil more extra on top. Add a love story, teen angst, funny moments and you get a great read.
I also thought this was a very inspiring read about body image and highly recommend it for others to read.
I received a free digital copy for an honest review.
"And your handwriting is incredibly… non-loopy.”“Non-loopy?” “It was my substitute for saying it’s not very—”“Girly?”“Yes.” He laughs, and that adorable as all heck blush goes through his ears. “It’s like Lucida Sans when most girls have Lucida Handwriting.”"
I swear I think Cassie Mae can read my mind or she maybe can time travel. Cause I feel like she knows what I went though my teen years. Seriously, she writes characters that are so relatable and realistic that you'll feel like someone is holding mirror to your very own life.
You can't Catch me is story about a girl who develops but mother nature decided to give her a lil more extra on top. Add a love story, teen angst, funny moments and you get a great read.
I also thought this was a very inspiring read about body image and highly recommend it for others to read.
I received a free digital copy for an honest review.
March 28, 2016
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5 stars -- I've been staring at this cursor trying to figure out how to put into words what this book did to me. (oh, and I received an advanced copy of this book from the author b/c I'm a lucky son of a ... But I preordered it too, b/c that's what happens when a favourite author finally puts up a preorder for a book I've been waiting forever on)
So... Where do I even begin? I feel like I had all the words earlier when I was reading, but now that's it's 2am and I'm trying to sound coherent, it's just all fallen into the abyss. All I know is this book made me cry at least 4 times. (With a huge 5th time when I got to the acknowledgements, but that's between me and Ms. Mae.) So why did I cry? B/C reading this book was like taking a long hard look at myself -- both the me that I am now, and the me that I was in high school. Ginger just embodies the experience of growing up and all the insecurities that we face while that's happening. My heart ACHED for her. Just ached. It's not that I was faced with her particular problem growing up (or rather her two HUGE problems). But it's not about Ginger's particular insecurity, it's how Ms. Mae just perfectly captures the experience of hating something about ourselves...regardless of the reason that we come up with for the hate. And what's sad and scary is that I think most of us never truly let go of those high school insecurities...no matter how much we change and grow as adults, those scars remain with us to some degree. And that's why this book is so important. It's 100% relatable. It's SO unbelievably relevant to teens going through this part of life now...and for those of us looking back, it's like that hug that we so desperately needed then, and probably could still use now.
Ginger is wholeheartedly the star of this book. She's. Just. Everything. She's hilarious and adorable. She's awkward and weird. And watching her grow throughout this book was a treat. And along the way she has help from some amazing people. I don't think this book would have been what it became without Coach Fox. Her side story was almost as powerful as Ginger's...I felt for all that she was going through even though it wasn't the focus of the story. And between her and Aunt Heidi, I was glad to see such positive role models for Ginger to look up to.
I appreciated the diversity of Ginger's friends and fellow classmates. There were no caricatures, but rather a whole slew of realistic teens -- from the ones you wanted to smack, to the ones you wanted to give an extra hug to when they got things right. I loved how you got a glimpse of Tiff (the bff) battling her own insecurities, even though in Ginger's eyes she was perfect...b/c that's how it works. We're all dealing with something, even when our closest friends don't realize it.
And then there's Oliver. While I think the strength of this book is in Ginger's "coming of age" type story, I will admit that I went ga-ga for the adorable side of romance that Ginger experiences. Ms. Mae just knows how to capture all those beautiful fluttertastic moments of first love...from the epic crush to more. I honestly can't even describe it. Every time Ginger goofy grinned, I was already right there with her with my own matching smile. Oliver made my heart smile and happy sigh. The beauty of that relationship, and the peace and love and friendship that Ginger receives through Oliver was the perfect compliment to all the upheaval she was dealing with in the rest of her life.
So what can I say? I loved it. I know, you're shocked. I can only hope this book gets into the hands of a teen girl facing down her own demons. I want that girl to be able to read Ginger's story and know she's not alone, and that it's ok to love yourself. I think we could all stand to do a little bit more loving of our whole selves. Now I'm off to find a mirror and embrace what Ginger taught me. Cause you're never too old to learn that lesson.
5 stars -- I've been staring at this cursor trying to figure out how to put into words what this book did to me. (oh, and I received an advanced copy of this book from the author b/c I'm a lucky son of a ... But I preordered it too, b/c that's what happens when a favourite author finally puts up a preorder for a book I've been waiting forever on)
So... Where do I even begin? I feel like I had all the words earlier when I was reading, but now that's it's 2am and I'm trying to sound coherent, it's just all fallen into the abyss. All I know is this book made me cry at least 4 times. (With a huge 5th time when I got to the acknowledgements, but that's between me and Ms. Mae.) So why did I cry? B/C reading this book was like taking a long hard look at myself -- both the me that I am now, and the me that I was in high school. Ginger just embodies the experience of growing up and all the insecurities that we face while that's happening. My heart ACHED for her. Just ached. It's not that I was faced with her particular problem growing up (or rather her two HUGE problems). But it's not about Ginger's particular insecurity, it's how Ms. Mae just perfectly captures the experience of hating something about ourselves...regardless of the reason that we come up with for the hate. And what's sad and scary is that I think most of us never truly let go of those high school insecurities...no matter how much we change and grow as adults, those scars remain with us to some degree. And that's why this book is so important. It's 100% relatable. It's SO unbelievably relevant to teens going through this part of life now...and for those of us looking back, it's like that hug that we so desperately needed then, and probably could still use now.
Ginger is wholeheartedly the star of this book. She's. Just. Everything. She's hilarious and adorable. She's awkward and weird. And watching her grow throughout this book was a treat. And along the way she has help from some amazing people. I don't think this book would have been what it became without Coach Fox. Her side story was almost as powerful as Ginger's...I felt for all that she was going through even though it wasn't the focus of the story. And between her and Aunt Heidi, I was glad to see such positive role models for Ginger to look up to.
I appreciated the diversity of Ginger's friends and fellow classmates. There were no caricatures, but rather a whole slew of realistic teens -- from the ones you wanted to smack, to the ones you wanted to give an extra hug to when they got things right. I loved how you got a glimpse of Tiff (the bff) battling her own insecurities, even though in Ginger's eyes she was perfect...b/c that's how it works. We're all dealing with something, even when our closest friends don't realize it.
And then there's Oliver. While I think the strength of this book is in Ginger's "coming of age" type story, I will admit that I went ga-ga for the adorable side of romance that Ginger experiences. Ms. Mae just knows how to capture all those beautiful fluttertastic moments of first love...from the epic crush to more. I honestly can't even describe it. Every time Ginger goofy grinned, I was already right there with her with my own matching smile. Oliver made my heart smile and happy sigh. The beauty of that relationship, and the peace and love and friendship that Ginger receives through Oliver was the perfect compliment to all the upheaval she was dealing with in the rest of her life.
So what can I say? I loved it. I know, you're shocked. I can only hope this book gets into the hands of a teen girl facing down her own demons. I want that girl to be able to read Ginger's story and know she's not alone, and that it's ok to love yourself. I think we could all stand to do a little bit more loving of our whole selves. Now I'm off to find a mirror and embrace what Ginger taught me. Cause you're never too old to learn that lesson.
March 22, 2016
Oh. Em. Gee!!
I loved this book so much! If you love YA, or have never read one, I really think you should read this one! Cassie Mae has a unique style, adding a little quirkiness, awkwardness, a little nerdiness with a big ol heaping of swoon into this story. And I love the message she brings through the perils of Ginger.
Almost Every young girl goes through an awkward stage, finds something about her growing body that she may not like, or may even hate. Ginger is no exception. She is a runner, taking Second in State her freshman year of high school. The summer after, her body changes, becoming a little too top heavy and making it difficult for her to be the runner she once was. She goes through all the emotions a 16 year might have and she has to learn how to be the person she always has been and accept her new body.
Beautifully written with side dose of humor and a whole lot of growth, Cassie Mae really knocks it out of the park with this story of finding your self worth. Not only for teens, but for adults too.
“To show them their value, which no one can find if they are constantly comparing their worth to the success of others.”
That is the message that Ginger gets, loud and clear.
Ginger and Oliver are just too cute. Two weirdos, as they put it, finding friendship and strength in each other. And maybe, just maybe, it will blossom into something else.
“You’re the runner.” His eyes meet mine. “That’s who you are, no matter what you think about your body. I wish I could do what you do. I wish I could run… clear my head, forget, remember, reflect, be… strong.” His fingers squeeze mine tight, and I can feel a gentle tug play my heartstrings. “That’s what I see in you. Not what size of anything you wear. Because I’d hate it if someone only saw that in me.”
How does he do that? Pull my heart together and break it all at the same time?
Swoon!! I'm telling you, these two are too cute.
And my personal favorite, is Cassie's Note to the reader at the end of the book. Thank you Cassie for such beautiful words about a subject that pretty much everyone can relate to!
I loved this book so much! If you love YA, or have never read one, I really think you should read this one! Cassie Mae has a unique style, adding a little quirkiness, awkwardness, a little nerdiness with a big ol heaping of swoon into this story. And I love the message she brings through the perils of Ginger.
Almost Every young girl goes through an awkward stage, finds something about her growing body that she may not like, or may even hate. Ginger is no exception. She is a runner, taking Second in State her freshman year of high school. The summer after, her body changes, becoming a little too top heavy and making it difficult for her to be the runner she once was. She goes through all the emotions a 16 year might have and she has to learn how to be the person she always has been and accept her new body.
Beautifully written with side dose of humor and a whole lot of growth, Cassie Mae really knocks it out of the park with this story of finding your self worth. Not only for teens, but for adults too.
“To show them their value, which no one can find if they are constantly comparing their worth to the success of others.”
That is the message that Ginger gets, loud and clear.
Ginger and Oliver are just too cute. Two weirdos, as they put it, finding friendship and strength in each other. And maybe, just maybe, it will blossom into something else.
“You’re the runner.” His eyes meet mine. “That’s who you are, no matter what you think about your body. I wish I could do what you do. I wish I could run… clear my head, forget, remember, reflect, be… strong.” His fingers squeeze mine tight, and I can feel a gentle tug play my heartstrings. “That’s what I see in you. Not what size of anything you wear. Because I’d hate it if someone only saw that in me.”
How does he do that? Pull my heart together and break it all at the same time?
Swoon!! I'm telling you, these two are too cute.
And my personal favorite, is Cassie's Note to the reader at the end of the book. Thank you Cassie for such beautiful words about a subject that pretty much everyone can relate to!
March 28, 2016
A theme that seems to be reoccurring in the books that I'm reading this year is that they seem to have a bit to do with self image and bullying. It's not purposeful, but it just seems to be happening, and honestly I love it, because it means authors are starting to write about these things a bit more. I am one of those people who can be 'spoken to' via books, they become so real to me and there are times when the message shatters me as much as my own life experiences do. That is why I love this growing trend, and hope that it continues and we see more and more books dealing with the hard things in life and that empower our youth and even adults to take action, or make a change.
I always love Cassie's writing. She is a pro at writing characters that I want to know in real life. I especially loved both Ginger and Oliver because of their awkwardness. The rambling while nervous, and goofiness of these characters is so perfect. Ginger is so positive, even though this book deals with her own self-image issues, even in all of that she is positive. She sees good in people that others can't see. She is an inspiration to be a better person. She's also real; there is nothing more real than someone who has trouble accepting things about themselves - even if they can easily accept those same traits in someone else without a second thought. Ginger did what I did as a teenager, and probably most teenagers still do; she looked at others and wondered if they are going through the same things, if they are having the same self conscious thoughts. (To any teenager who happens by this review - yes. They are. Yes. They do. If there's anything I've learned as an adult, it's that no matter how alone you feel in your skin - it's so very likely that someone close to you is struggling with the same things. Maybe not in the same exact way since we are all different, but they are. I promise!)
Oliver, I could picture Oliver immediately from his dark hair to his freckles and tall robust build. He was a bit self-deprecating and a Momma's boy - and I loved him. He was sweet and, yes, awkward. But I loved his role in this book, and that was to provide Ginger with a place where she felt like herself, and not judged by her body or her abilities, or the expectations she felt she had to live up to.
Not So Much: Ginger had some friends, specifically boy friends, who took notice of the physical changes in her and reacted like...boys. In the end, I kind of would have liked to have seen them realize how their behavior might have hurt Ginger. I think it was eluded to, but maybe it just wasn't as fleshed out as much as I would have liked.
The Verdict:
Yet another book I implore you to get into the hands of all the teenagers around you. I feel like this message on self image, and learning to love yourself for who you are is beautifully done. The story is not bogged down with too much sadness, but there are parts that make you really hurt for the characters in this book, not just Ginger. Mostly though you'll be smiling and giggling at the antics and rooting for Ginger to win this race. You Can't Catch Me is a clean book - and appropriate for younger teens as well as older.
I always love Cassie's writing. She is a pro at writing characters that I want to know in real life. I especially loved both Ginger and Oliver because of their awkwardness. The rambling while nervous, and goofiness of these characters is so perfect. Ginger is so positive, even though this book deals with her own self-image issues, even in all of that she is positive. She sees good in people that others can't see. She is an inspiration to be a better person. She's also real; there is nothing more real than someone who has trouble accepting things about themselves - even if they can easily accept those same traits in someone else without a second thought. Ginger did what I did as a teenager, and probably most teenagers still do; she looked at others and wondered if they are going through the same things, if they are having the same self conscious thoughts. (To any teenager who happens by this review - yes. They are. Yes. They do. If there's anything I've learned as an adult, it's that no matter how alone you feel in your skin - it's so very likely that someone close to you is struggling with the same things. Maybe not in the same exact way since we are all different, but they are. I promise!)
Oliver, I could picture Oliver immediately from his dark hair to his freckles and tall robust build. He was a bit self-deprecating and a Momma's boy - and I loved him. He was sweet and, yes, awkward. But I loved his role in this book, and that was to provide Ginger with a place where she felt like herself, and not judged by her body or her abilities, or the expectations she felt she had to live up to.
Not So Much: Ginger had some friends, specifically boy friends, who took notice of the physical changes in her and reacted like...boys. In the end, I kind of would have liked to have seen them realize how their behavior might have hurt Ginger. I think it was eluded to, but maybe it just wasn't as fleshed out as much as I would have liked.
The Verdict:
Yet another book I implore you to get into the hands of all the teenagers around you. I feel like this message on self image, and learning to love yourself for who you are is beautifully done. The story is not bogged down with too much sadness, but there are parts that make you really hurt for the characters in this book, not just Ginger. Mostly though you'll be smiling and giggling at the antics and rooting for Ginger to win this race. You Can't Catch Me is a clean book - and appropriate for younger teens as well as older.
March 24, 2016
You Can't Catch Me was given to me as a ARC for a review.
This is another incredible book by one of my favourite authors Cassie Mae. While reading this book I felt like I was reading about 15 year old me (sans being a runner ☺). I had quite a small chest growing up which suited me as I was a bit of a tom-boy but then all of a sudden BAM! Size DD appeared overnight and it was horrible. I was insecure and just bought baggy clothes to cover them.
I always feel that Cassie hits the nail on the head with her books, especially her YA. She definitely managed to do it again with this one. It is a fantastic story about loving yourself and your body no matter the changes that take place. Learning to live with becoming a woman and all it entails. Beauty is not what is on the outside, what is on the inside is often more important. This book made me look at myself again and pick out the good instead of the bad that I always see and it felt…fantastic.
I have often seen facebook post from friends asking to name a book that changed you and I have to say that finally I found one. This book, even though it is YA, has made me realise that the extra weight does not define me and now I am trying to look past it. Now I will look in the mirror and pick out all the good in me instead. It is a book for all ages and I think it may do us all some good to read it.
So thank you Cassie Mae for this awesome piece of writing. It is most definitely a favourite and must read.
This is another incredible book by one of my favourite authors Cassie Mae. While reading this book I felt like I was reading about 15 year old me (sans being a runner ☺). I had quite a small chest growing up which suited me as I was a bit of a tom-boy but then all of a sudden BAM! Size DD appeared overnight and it was horrible. I was insecure and just bought baggy clothes to cover them.
I always feel that Cassie hits the nail on the head with her books, especially her YA. She definitely managed to do it again with this one. It is a fantastic story about loving yourself and your body no matter the changes that take place. Learning to live with becoming a woman and all it entails. Beauty is not what is on the outside, what is on the inside is often more important. This book made me look at myself again and pick out the good instead of the bad that I always see and it felt…fantastic.
I have often seen facebook post from friends asking to name a book that changed you and I have to say that finally I found one. This book, even though it is YA, has made me realise that the extra weight does not define me and now I am trying to look past it. Now I will look in the mirror and pick out all the good in me instead. It is a book for all ages and I think it may do us all some good to read it.
So thank you Cassie Mae for this awesome piece of writing. It is most definitely a favourite and must read.
March 17, 2016
I was lucky enough to beta this book and I have to say this may possibly be my favorite Cassie Mae book. It was full of all the classic Cassie Mae trademarks. Laugh out loud moments, passages that were so well written I had to stop and smile, and characters that are so relatable you just want to climb in the book and hang out with them.
This book also packed an emotional punch that had me tearing up and wanting to hug Ginger and assure her that it's okay to change. And then there's Oliver. Sweet, Post it loving, adorable, Oliver. Cassie Mae is a master at making ordinary boys hot and I think Oliver is by far the hottest.
Growing up is hard and this book encompasses the struggle and the resistance to accept what you cannot change. A must read for EVERY girl.
This book also packed an emotional punch that had me tearing up and wanting to hug Ginger and assure her that it's okay to change. And then there's Oliver. Sweet, Post it loving, adorable, Oliver. Cassie Mae is a master at making ordinary boys hot and I think Oliver is by far the hottest.
Growing up is hard and this book encompasses the struggle and the resistance to accept what you cannot change. A must read for EVERY girl.
September 16, 2021
Wow.. this was so much better than I expected, way better!
It was funny and heartwarming, and I have to admit I couldn't help myself getting emotional reading this amazing book.
I really felt with Ginger. She was genuin and real, her struggles to accept her changing body were believable. Her thoughts were those of a struggling 16-year-old, her exaggerations were wonderfully in tune with her whole character, the author created an amazing teenager.
Besides, Oliver was amazing, too, and their romance was so very sweet.
I'm glad I found this book... but I can not understand why so few people have read it, that's strange. 5 stars!
It was funny and heartwarming, and I have to admit I couldn't help myself getting emotional reading this amazing book.
I really felt with Ginger. She was genuin and real, her struggles to accept her changing body were believable. Her thoughts were those of a struggling 16-year-old, her exaggerations were wonderfully in tune with her whole character, the author created an amazing teenager.
Besides, Oliver was amazing, too, and their romance was so very sweet.
I'm glad I found this book... but I can not understand why so few people have read it, that's strange. 5 stars!
May 1, 2016
Another fantastic Cassie Mae read
As an athlete growing up (and still am) so much of this story rang true. Lots of things change in high school, minds and bodies, and we're kidding ourselves if we think they didn't (or don't if we're currently in that era) effect us.
Cassie Mae brilliantly portrays these struggles through Ginger's story. I also thoroughly appreciated the insight into our secondary characters struggles as well. A few tears escaped while I read. A perfect blend of humor and emotion. Another great addition to the Cassie Mae bookshelf.
As an athlete growing up (and still am) so much of this story rang true. Lots of things change in high school, minds and bodies, and we're kidding ourselves if we think they didn't (or don't if we're currently in that era) effect us.
Cassie Mae brilliantly portrays these struggles through Ginger's story. I also thoroughly appreciated the insight into our secondary characters struggles as well. A few tears escaped while I read. A perfect blend of humor and emotion. Another great addition to the Cassie Mae bookshelf.
March 7, 2016
I loved this book! This was exactly what I wanted from a Cassie Mae YA book. It was fun, sweet, full of heart and full of laughs.
Ginger is so much fun. I loved her energy, and definitely felt for her and understood her struggles. And Oliver was pretty much perfect. Their meet cute may be the cutest meet cute ever. I think he's my new favorite Cassie Mae guy.
If you're looking for a fun book that will also give you all the feels, this is it.
Ginger is so much fun. I loved her energy, and definitely felt for her and understood her struggles. And Oliver was pretty much perfect. Their meet cute may be the cutest meet cute ever. I think he's my new favorite Cassie Mae guy.
If you're looking for a fun book that will also give you all the feels, this is it.
February 3, 2018
Another great book by Cassie Mae! The romance in this one is scaled back quite a bit and is more about self image and loving who you are inside and out. I actually feel this should be required reading for every teenager. Even if you don't have the same issue as Ginger chances are pretty high that there is something else you don't like about yourself that will make this relatable. I especially loved towards the end when Ginger really comes to terms with how she's changed and how she handles it.
March 27, 2016
***This is a place holder for my actual review***
This book kind of blindsided me so i need a little more time to think about it. Usually with Cassie's books my immediate reaction is "Awwh", "Lol", or just some general gushing over how much i loved it. And I'm not saying I didn't love it because I don't think there is any universe where I wouldn't love a word this woman writes. It's just that this book brought out some other emotions in me that i am still trying to process. And I think that's pretty much the whole point. I felt so much anger and pain while reading this. But within those dark moments there were plenty of light moments too.
But I just couldn't seem to get myself passed the anger until the end. i think that's why it took me two days instead of the usual one day to read this. Ginger's story made me angry because I just couldn't understand how she could feel that way. In my head there was absolutely nothing wrong with her. So what? She grew some Sharpies. She was still healthy and a better runner than most. I wanted to shake her. Then when the cyber stuff started happening I got angry on her behalf. Because I seriously don't get any of that stuff. It just baffles me and I know that that is my problem. I'm trying to read into a society that I'm not part of so it's difficult to understand.
Then there was the pain. Did the ripping really have to be so realistic? I felt every bit of skin being torn from my body. I went around all day trying to convince myself that I was not Ginger. Stupid over-active imagination.
But by the end I felt like a different person. I took a look at myself in the mirror. . .and then again the next day because seriously what is the point in going through life not liking ourselves? And everyone has at least one insecurity. Most of us have the "grass is greener on the other side" complex and sometimes it takes someone on the opposite side of the fence looking over for us to look at our own side but it shouldn't. Yes, we should try to be better people but that doesn't mean that we should destroy ourselves or belittle our current states to like who we are.
Annnnd I'm rambling. . . but as I said : place-holder. I'll write something proper when it's not 2am and I can be coherent about my feelings.
This book kind of blindsided me so i need a little more time to think about it. Usually with Cassie's books my immediate reaction is "Awwh", "Lol", or just some general gushing over how much i loved it. And I'm not saying I didn't love it because I don't think there is any universe where I wouldn't love a word this woman writes. It's just that this book brought out some other emotions in me that i am still trying to process. And I think that's pretty much the whole point. I felt so much anger and pain while reading this. But within those dark moments there were plenty of light moments too.
But I just couldn't seem to get myself passed the anger until the end. i think that's why it took me two days instead of the usual one day to read this. Ginger's story made me angry because I just couldn't understand how she could feel that way. In my head there was absolutely nothing wrong with her. So what? She grew some Sharpies. She was still healthy and a better runner than most. I wanted to shake her. Then when the cyber stuff started happening I got angry on her behalf. Because I seriously don't get any of that stuff. It just baffles me and I know that that is my problem. I'm trying to read into a society that I'm not part of so it's difficult to understand.
Then there was the pain. Did the ripping really have to be so realistic? I felt every bit of skin being torn from my body. I went around all day trying to convince myself that I was not Ginger. Stupid over-active imagination.
But by the end I felt like a different person. I took a look at myself in the mirror. . .and then again the next day because seriously what is the point in going through life not liking ourselves? And everyone has at least one insecurity. Most of us have the "grass is greener on the other side" complex and sometimes it takes someone on the opposite side of the fence looking over for us to look at our own side but it shouldn't. Yes, we should try to be better people but that doesn't mean that we should destroy ourselves or belittle our current states to like who we are.
Annnnd I'm rambling. . . but as I said : place-holder. I'll write something proper when it's not 2am and I can be coherent about my feelings.
April 3, 2016
I think this is the first Cassie Mae/Becca Ann book that I've read that I didn't get the chance to post status updates while I was reading it. (I was on a plane from the US to the UK while reading most of it.) And for that, I am a little sad. BUT, it won't stop me from being able to tell you how much I loved this story!
Ginger is such a special character to me, on a personal level. She may only be a sophomore in high school, but I think most (if not all) of us can relate to what she's going through, in some way. Her body is changing, both because of growing up, and because of some of the choices she made over the summer. These changes lead her to believe that she can no longer be a runner. And she hides it all under a fake smile, baggy clothes and duct tape. In all honesty, this is a story about learning to love yourself, physically, emotionally, mentally...
Ginger and Oliver meet under somewhat strange circumstances, but once they finally start talking, they are so relieved to find each other as weird as they think they are themselves, that they don't have too many problems being themselves. And it's wonderful to watch their relationship bloom.
Really, we are all a little bit weird, and in the wise words of Robert Fulghum:
'We’re all a little weird. And life is a little weird. And when we find someone whose weirdness is compatible with ours, we join up with them and fall into mutually satisfying weirdness—and call it love—true love.'
When I got to the last, oh, 15%, I had a couple of good cries. I can't tell you how many times I've looked at myself in the mirror and just shaken my head, telling myself all the things that are wrong with me, both physically, and in other areas of my life. But it's time to stop that. There are so many good, wonderful, beautiful things about myself, and my life, and it's about time I started recognizing them. As we all should.
And P.S. I will always feel a special connection to Ginger (and the author who wrote her story) because we share a huge love for Disney music. :) (And I will never look at Sharpies or Post-it Notes the same way again!)
Ginger is such a special character to me, on a personal level. She may only be a sophomore in high school, but I think most (if not all) of us can relate to what she's going through, in some way. Her body is changing, both because of growing up, and because of some of the choices she made over the summer. These changes lead her to believe that she can no longer be a runner. And she hides it all under a fake smile, baggy clothes and duct tape. In all honesty, this is a story about learning to love yourself, physically, emotionally, mentally...
Ginger and Oliver meet under somewhat strange circumstances, but once they finally start talking, they are so relieved to find each other as weird as they think they are themselves, that they don't have too many problems being themselves. And it's wonderful to watch their relationship bloom.
Really, we are all a little bit weird, and in the wise words of Robert Fulghum:
'We’re all a little weird. And life is a little weird. And when we find someone whose weirdness is compatible with ours, we join up with them and fall into mutually satisfying weirdness—and call it love—true love.'
When I got to the last, oh, 15%, I had a couple of good cries. I can't tell you how many times I've looked at myself in the mirror and just shaken my head, telling myself all the things that are wrong with me, both physically, and in other areas of my life. But it's time to stop that. There are so many good, wonderful, beautiful things about myself, and my life, and it's about time I started recognizing them. As we all should.
And P.S. I will always feel a special connection to Ginger (and the author who wrote her story) because we share a huge love for Disney music. :) (And I will never look at Sharpies or Post-it Notes the same way again!)
May 30, 2016
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This is the best body image book I have ever read! I don’t even know how to give this book a proper review, I feel anything I say will not do the book justice.
She touches on how uncomfortable it is when our bodies change (puberty sucks) and we feel awkward in them, relearning how to move and dress. How the attention from people we thought we knew changes and we don’t know how to deal with it. There are no rule books for when we grow up. At least none that I was aware of when I was Ginger’s age. This book should be mandatory reading in high school. I am definitely saving it for when my daughter becomes a teenager.
This book would have been a godsend to me as a teenager because I would have felt less alone in my feelings of awkwardness. I loved how she didn’t give up. Ginger could have easily allowed herself to fall into the pity pool. Her determination and her sense of competitiveness is something that is admirable in a female at her age. Many succumb to peer pressure and conform. She is a horse of a different color and an inspiration to girls everywhere. Ok, that last part sounded cheesy but it doesn’t make it any less true.
I floved the love sub-story. It was sweet and slow and original in how they met. I don’t know how CM does it but every story has a different element of originality to them. And this one is no exception. I especially loved how they ‘talked’ through post-its and they didn’t really have any contact for the first half of the book, even if I was getting antsy for some action. It was totally worth the wait though.
I highly recommend this book to all.
This is the best body image book I have ever read! I don’t even know how to give this book a proper review, I feel anything I say will not do the book justice.
She touches on how uncomfortable it is when our bodies change (puberty sucks) and we feel awkward in them, relearning how to move and dress. How the attention from people we thought we knew changes and we don’t know how to deal with it. There are no rule books for when we grow up. At least none that I was aware of when I was Ginger’s age. This book should be mandatory reading in high school. I am definitely saving it for when my daughter becomes a teenager.
This book would have been a godsend to me as a teenager because I would have felt less alone in my feelings of awkwardness. I loved how she didn’t give up. Ginger could have easily allowed herself to fall into the pity pool. Her determination and her sense of competitiveness is something that is admirable in a female at her age. Many succumb to peer pressure and conform. She is a horse of a different color and an inspiration to girls everywhere. Ok, that last part sounded cheesy but it doesn’t make it any less true.
I floved the love sub-story. It was sweet and slow and original in how they met. I don’t know how CM does it but every story has a different element of originality to them. And this one is no exception. I especially loved how they ‘talked’ through post-its and they didn’t really have any contact for the first half of the book, even if I was getting antsy for some action. It was totally worth the wait though.
I highly recommend this book to all.
March 23, 2016
This book is so amazing!!! I love how it helps readers see The beauty in their own flaws that they think or feel that they have.
I love how this is a YA book and I would recommend teenagers reading it or anyone else who wants a good read.
I love the romance between Oliver and Ginger. It was really cute.
I also appreciated the letter that Cassie Mae wrote at the end of the book.
The book and the letter was beautifully written and I hope this book will help a lot of people see that they need to accept themselves The way they are.
I love how this is a YA book and I would recommend teenagers reading it or anyone else who wants a good read.
I love the romance between Oliver and Ginger. It was really cute.
I also appreciated the letter that Cassie Mae wrote at the end of the book.
The book and the letter was beautifully written and I hope this book will help a lot of people see that they need to accept themselves The way they are.
June 21, 2016
I love this book so much. It's more about figuring out how to love yourself in your own skin than the love story, but the love story is pretty awesome too.
I wanna gift this book to every teen I know.
I wanna gift this book to every teen I know.
May 21, 2016
This book was funny as all of Cassie's books are but it still had a serious subject. I loved the main character and really felt for her when her body started to change I can't even imagine to do the things she did as she was trying to get rid of her problems.
A very good read.
A very good read.
March 30, 2016
Cassie Mae has become an auto-buy for me, and this one didn't disappoint. Fun clean read. And it fulfills a massive need in the marketplace for plus-sized heroines. I loved it!
May 4, 2016
This was the first book I read every single page of, including the pages of acknowledgements and dedication :) A good read. Funny, inspiring, weird all at once.
October 13, 2017
Oops, I forgot to review this until now! This was an other fun read from Cassie Mae, and it was sweet too. I really like that the hero in this book doesn't have a perfect body like many heroes seem to do. He was way more realistic, AND he was asthmatic - in short, he had human issues to deal with that went beyond just some sad parts to his story. And his relationship with his mother was definitely one of the things that made him soooo sweet.
I didn't really feel huge sparks or tension or anything with this couple, so I wouldn't say I was swooning big time, but I was still all "awww" with how things turned out for them. Nice read. :)
I didn't really feel huge sparks or tension or anything with this couple, so I wouldn't say I was swooning big time, but I was still all "awww" with how things turned out for them. Nice read. :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 27, 2017
Great message. I had a hard time connecting to Oliver, but found Ginger really vivid....and really frank. I didn't mind her blatant way of seeing and saying things, but think it might be off-putting to some readers.
July 18, 2017
Love Cassie's books. Ginger is sweet, honest, and tries hard to be her best, even when she isn't. This is a great book for anyone wanting a darling and easy read that you just can't put down!
September 4, 2017
Wonderful beautiful.
January 2, 2020
Sooooo adorable
I loved it I can’t get over how adorable it all was I could die from all the sugar 🥰
I loved it I can’t get over how adorable it all was I could die from all the sugar 🥰
April 20, 2020
A sweet, relatable story with a fantastic message.
Thank you so much, Cassie Mae. I loved it 😊
Thank you so much, Cassie Mae. I loved it 😊
August 2, 2022
This was a great book, and I wish that it had been written when I was growing up. It was funny and felt true to the age of the characters. I also loved the romance.
March 8, 2017
A fantastic and beautiful read. I loved the ending. The hero and herine were great but the hero should have been more prominent like should haved been more enaged in the story, it felt as if he had taken a side character seat but all over it was great. the starting was hilarious and eye catching, it was the one of the few books that after reading for a while i was embarrassed (but good embarrasment) because of the writing style and humorful story, after a few minutes i would i have to gather my courage to open the ebook to start reading again. It was a pleasure reading such a book.
April 14, 2016
I RECIEVED AN ARC OF THIS BOOK FROM THE AUTHOR IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW. THIS DOES NOT AFFECT MY VIEWS OR OPINIONS IN ANY WAYS.
You Can't Catch Me by Cassie Mae is a very cute and interesting book.
Summery From Goodreads:
My body suuuucks. After lounging around on my butt all summer (okay, so maybe that was my bad), this body decided to become something completely foreign. So now I’m trying to make the track team and I feel like I’m a baby learning to walk again.
A couple pounds wouldn’t have been so bad. Work those off, run like a mad woman, no problem, yeah? But no. I’ve also developed a couple of things that I definitely didn’t have before. And now my guy friends are all sitting in a pool of drool as they not-so-subtly stare at my chest.
Combine all that drama with the fact that the new track coach is getting major flack for being a little chunky, and all I’m trying to do is convince the team that I’m not running slower because of her coaching style.
Oh, and did I mention that I’m totally falling face-first in “like” with some guy I met in a cemetery? And no one understands it just because he’s also a little chunky. But he’s also adorable and wonderfully weird and I don’t care what they say, his look sure does it for me.
But… I don’t know… how can I be in “like” with someone, when I have no clue how to like myself anymore?
This is my first Cassie Mae book, and it didn't disappoint. I had never heard of her before this book, but I'm glad that I got a chance to read and review this.
I really enjoyed reading this book. I like to run for pleasure, and so I felt that much more connected to Ginger.
This book was laugh out loud funny. I mean, just the fact that she calls her breasts "sharpies" are bad enough, but the fact that she compares them to sandbags is beyond hilarious. It was a little hilarious that Ginger obsessed about her body, but that was actually pretty realistic. Teenagers are usually pretty uncomfortable with their bodies.
I loved Oliver. He was cute and I loved how Ginger was uncomfortable around him. They met in the cemetery where Ginger goes to talk to her dead sister. The whole romance was cute, and perfectly appropriate. That is rare because a lot of young adult books get pretty explicit. This was just cute puppy love, which worked great in this book, since romance was just one of the few plots going on at the time.
The cross country coach was very nice. The team didn't think so though, because she was a bit "round". She was the one who convinced Cassie to keep going for her goals.
It was really funny how Oliver turned out to be Coach's son.
The whole book was filled with a great amount of romance, comedy, and drama. It all blended together perfectly, and didn't waste any time. Mae sure knows the things teenagers think and do, and made a character that every teenager will relate to. I totally recommend this book.
4.75 rating
You Can't Catch Me by Cassie Mae is a very cute and interesting book.
Summery From Goodreads:
My body suuuucks. After lounging around on my butt all summer (okay, so maybe that was my bad), this body decided to become something completely foreign. So now I’m trying to make the track team and I feel like I’m a baby learning to walk again.
A couple pounds wouldn’t have been so bad. Work those off, run like a mad woman, no problem, yeah? But no. I’ve also developed a couple of things that I definitely didn’t have before. And now my guy friends are all sitting in a pool of drool as they not-so-subtly stare at my chest.
Combine all that drama with the fact that the new track coach is getting major flack for being a little chunky, and all I’m trying to do is convince the team that I’m not running slower because of her coaching style.
Oh, and did I mention that I’m totally falling face-first in “like” with some guy I met in a cemetery? And no one understands it just because he’s also a little chunky. But he’s also adorable and wonderfully weird and I don’t care what they say, his look sure does it for me.
But… I don’t know… how can I be in “like” with someone, when I have no clue how to like myself anymore?
This is my first Cassie Mae book, and it didn't disappoint. I had never heard of her before this book, but I'm glad that I got a chance to read and review this.
I really enjoyed reading this book. I like to run for pleasure, and so I felt that much more connected to Ginger.
This book was laugh out loud funny. I mean, just the fact that she calls her breasts "sharpies" are bad enough, but the fact that she compares them to sandbags is beyond hilarious. It was a little hilarious that Ginger obsessed about her body, but that was actually pretty realistic. Teenagers are usually pretty uncomfortable with their bodies.
I loved Oliver. He was cute and I loved how Ginger was uncomfortable around him. They met in the cemetery where Ginger goes to talk to her dead sister. The whole romance was cute, and perfectly appropriate. That is rare because a lot of young adult books get pretty explicit. This was just cute puppy love, which worked great in this book, since romance was just one of the few plots going on at the time.
The cross country coach was very nice. The team didn't think so though, because she was a bit "round". She was the one who convinced Cassie to keep going for her goals.
It was really funny how Oliver turned out to be Coach's son.
The whole book was filled with a great amount of romance, comedy, and drama. It all blended together perfectly, and didn't waste any time. Mae sure knows the things teenagers think and do, and made a character that every teenager will relate to. I totally recommend this book.
4.75 rating
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