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Virginia Shreves #2
The Universe Is Expanding and So Am I
Six months ago, Virginia decided to ignore the ‘Fat Girl Code of Conduct’ she used to live by and make her relationship with Froggy Welsh the Fourth official. But now things are getting complicated. She’s not sure she still likes Froggy, her mum has betrayed her to the meanest girl in school, and her brother Byron – she’s not she’ll ever know how to feel about him. And then she meets Sebastian. He funny, sweet and he doesn’t want to talk about family, and Virginia’s fine with that. But then a terrible secret comes out that could ruin everything.
Fifteen years after the publication of the acclaimed The Earth, My Butt and Other Big Round Things, funny, fierce Virginia Shreves is back for round two.
Fifteen years after the publication of the acclaimed The Earth, My Butt and Other Big Round Things, funny, fierce Virginia Shreves is back for round two.
288 pages, Paperback
First published May 29, 2018
43 people are currently reading
3203 people want to read
About the author
Carolyn Mackler
24 books981 followersCarolyn Mackler is the author of the popular teen novels, The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things (A Michael L. Printz Honor Book), Infinite in Between, Tangled, Guyaholic, Vegan Virgin Valentine, and Love and Other Four-Letter Words. Carolyn's novel, The Future of Us, co-written with bestselling author Jay Asher, received starred reviews and appeared on several bestseller lists. Carolyn has also written Best Friend Next Door, a novel for younger readers. Carolyn's novels have been published in more than twenty countries, including the United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, France, Italy, Korea, the Netherlands, Denmark, Israel, and Indonesia.
Carolyn lives in New York City with her husband and two sons. Her new novel for teens, The Universe is Expanding and So Am I, will be published in May 2018. This is the long-awaited sequel to the Printz-honor winning novel, The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things.
Carolyn lives in New York City with her husband and two sons. Her new novel for teens, The Universe is Expanding and So Am I, will be published in May 2018. This is the long-awaited sequel to the Printz-honor winning novel, The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 256 reviews
April 30, 2018
** I received an ARC from NetGalley and publisher Bloomsbury USA Children in exchange for my honest review**
“But you gave me two eyes.” I say gesturing at his drawing. He looks up for a second. “You’re two pretty to have one.”
I rated this book at 5/5 stars because it shows so many different aspects that should be shown more in novels today. Such as an overweight character and an LGBTQ Character. This novel is sending out a lot of messages that are really needed to be seen especially by teens these days, Love is Love is Love. I would recommend for everybody to pick this up because it helps you realize you aren’t alone in feeling like an outcast or feeling unwanted for whatever reason. The main character opens you up to understand how to make the best of a crappy situation and turn it into something you can grow from.
#BeTrueToYourself
“But you gave me two eyes.” I say gesturing at his drawing. He looks up for a second. “You’re two pretty to have one.”
I rated this book at 5/5 stars because it shows so many different aspects that should be shown more in novels today. Such as an overweight character and an LGBTQ Character. This novel is sending out a lot of messages that are really needed to be seen especially by teens these days, Love is Love is Love. I would recommend for everybody to pick this up because it helps you realize you aren’t alone in feeling like an outcast or feeling unwanted for whatever reason. The main character opens you up to understand how to make the best of a crappy situation and turn it into something you can grow from.
#BeTrueToYourself
November 15, 2018
So much better than book 1
I enjoyed this book thoroughly. I was hesitant to pick this up because the first book wasn't my favourite, but this one was so much better.
If you read the first book and didn't like it, I recommend you still pick this book up.
I enjoyed this book thoroughly. I was hesitant to pick this up because the first book wasn't my favourite, but this one was so much better.
If you read the first book and didn't like it, I recommend you still pick this book up.
September 3, 2018
4/5 STARS. This review is also available on my blog HERE.
If it doesn't make sense in certain parts it's because I reviewed it in the same blog post as its sequel. Click the link for full comprehension and to read the double review there :)
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I won't say as much on this novel cause obviously *spoilers* but firstly, I am SO HAPPY Carolyn wrote it. I feel like this sequel was needed 15 years ago. I liked it WAYYYYY more than the first book and I feel like this sequel just finished the whole story and character development arc for these characters.
In this novel, it's been a little while since the first book and while Virginia is embracing and becoming more confident, she's battling her internal insecurities which I find so realistic because we ALL have them no matter how confident we express ourselves to be. As a new love interest gets in the picture and more sinister scandals from the past arise, this book really shows Virginia's thinking and processes much better. I think the writing was really engaging and Carolyn improved so much from the first book. While some might see it was a little predictable (um. excuse me. aren't most contemporaries predictable romance stories anyway?), I thought this story was enjoyable. I liked seeing Virginia become more confident in herself, her choices and the possibilities for herself. Also, I don't know if it's just because I recently got my driver's license but it was again so nice to meet a character that's nervous at driving and is still getting experience in driving. I completely relate to that and I think most teens learning to drive will too.
Overall, the writing was great, the characters turned out much better and were developed really well. Also, Carolyn did an awesome job at updating the first book and continuing with this book. I can't imagine what else Virginia did 15 years ago when in this updated version she's watching Netflix. Granted, I was 5 years old when this came out, maybe she listened to mixtapes? Twas' a pretty good read either way.
xx Tracy
Thank you, Bloomsbury for kindly sending me a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
If it doesn't make sense in certain parts it's because I reviewed it in the same blog post as its sequel. Click the link for full comprehension and to read the double review there :)
-
I won't say as much on this novel cause obviously *spoilers* but firstly, I am SO HAPPY Carolyn wrote it. I feel like this sequel was needed 15 years ago. I liked it WAYYYYY more than the first book and I feel like this sequel just finished the whole story and character development arc for these characters.
In this novel, it's been a little while since the first book and while Virginia is embracing and becoming more confident, she's battling her internal insecurities which I find so realistic because we ALL have them no matter how confident we express ourselves to be. As a new love interest gets in the picture and more sinister scandals from the past arise, this book really shows Virginia's thinking and processes much better. I think the writing was really engaging and Carolyn improved so much from the first book. While some might see it was a little predictable (um. excuse me. aren't most contemporaries predictable romance stories anyway?), I thought this story was enjoyable. I liked seeing Virginia become more confident in herself, her choices and the possibilities for herself. Also, I don't know if it's just because I recently got my driver's license but it was again so nice to meet a character that's nervous at driving and is still getting experience in driving. I completely relate to that and I think most teens learning to drive will too.
Overall, the writing was great, the characters turned out much better and were developed really well. Also, Carolyn did an awesome job at updating the first book and continuing with this book. I can't imagine what else Virginia did 15 years ago when in this updated version she's watching Netflix. Granted, I was 5 years old when this came out, maybe she listened to mixtapes? Twas' a pretty good read either way.
xx Tracy
Thank you, Bloomsbury for kindly sending me a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
dnf
July 25, 2018Wow, that’s officially the fastest I’ve ever quit a book. I didn’t even finish the first chapter. Maybe thin people should just not write about what it’s like to be fat. Not all of us just sit around trying to figure out how to get a boyfriend. We certainly don’t do it simply so the skinny girls don’t snag em all. Like are you effing serious?
April 2, 2019
Interesting idea to have, among other subplots, the story of a college rape told from the rapist’s younger sister’s teenaged perspective as she’s trying to negotiate the resultant complexities and family drama, but this ya novel ultimately fell flat for me and just didn’t feel real. It was also really hard to read so much sympathy for a rapist. While well meaning, i ultimately don’t think this book sends a strong enough message that even if rapists are handsome and wealthy students at Ivy League colleges, they still deserve to be punished under the law like anyone else.
June 7, 2021
Written with humor and a distinct voice. Loved it!
May 31, 2018
Oh my goodness, I loved this book so so sooo much! I received a box of ARCs at work and this happened to be one of them. Upon digging it out of the box, my first thought was "oh, what a cute cover!" I love the pops of color and to me what appears to be an abstract take on the universe.
The synopsis sounded like something that would be right up my alley, especially since in the summer time I crave a good contemporary novel. Upon further research I realized that this is a sequel to a book Carolyn Mackler wrote fifteen years ago, of which I had not read. But, that's okay! While this is a sequel and appears to take place not long after where the first book concludes, Mackler does a very nice job of weaving in/rehashing (but in a good way) the key plot points of the original novel, The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things. It is 100 percent possible to go into this book completely blind and still understand what is happening in Virginia's life.
I loved Virginia! I felt so connected to her, and understood exactly what she was going through in regards to how she felt about herself and her weight and how other people perceived her. I struggled with my weight my entire adolescence and all through high school and part of college. It's difficult to be comfortable in your own skin when society is basically telling you that you're less of a person based on how you look, and Virginia has come to know that and move past it. She has so much confidence in this novel, and that's something I have found more recently in my life. I just wish I could have been as strong as her when I was her age. There are of course times where she still has self doubt and rags on herself, but she's human. She is however, also quick to find the positives in life and her doubt never spirals for long.
Sebastian is a sweet precious cinnamon roll and I LOVED him. The way he dealt with his own family drama and the way it connected to Virginia was handled so well. I really enjoyed their relationship and their ability to effectively communicate with each other. A dramatic revelation became apparent that affected both of them and instead of turning away and getting upset, they worked through it like actual human beings, so that was so nice to read. Miscommunication is my most loathed trope in literature, so I was quite happy to see it absent in a place it may have been used in other works.
Overall, this was a fantastic read that I flew through in one sitting. Funny, witty, adorable, and relatable, this is perfect for a summertime contemporary fix!
The synopsis sounded like something that would be right up my alley, especially since in the summer time I crave a good contemporary novel. Upon further research I realized that this is a sequel to a book Carolyn Mackler wrote fifteen years ago, of which I had not read. But, that's okay! While this is a sequel and appears to take place not long after where the first book concludes, Mackler does a very nice job of weaving in/rehashing (but in a good way) the key plot points of the original novel, The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things. It is 100 percent possible to go into this book completely blind and still understand what is happening in Virginia's life.
I loved Virginia! I felt so connected to her, and understood exactly what she was going through in regards to how she felt about herself and her weight and how other people perceived her. I struggled with my weight my entire adolescence and all through high school and part of college. It's difficult to be comfortable in your own skin when society is basically telling you that you're less of a person based on how you look, and Virginia has come to know that and move past it. She has so much confidence in this novel, and that's something I have found more recently in my life. I just wish I could have been as strong as her when I was her age. There are of course times where she still has self doubt and rags on herself, but she's human. She is however, also quick to find the positives in life and her doubt never spirals for long.
Sebastian is a sweet precious cinnamon roll and I LOVED him. The way he dealt with his own family drama and the way it connected to Virginia was handled so well. I really enjoyed their relationship and their ability to effectively communicate with each other. A dramatic revelation became apparent that affected both of them and instead of turning away and getting upset, they worked through it like actual human beings, so that was so nice to read. Miscommunication is my most loathed trope in literature, so I was quite happy to see it absent in a place it may have been used in other works.
Overall, this was a fantastic read that I flew through in one sitting. Funny, witty, adorable, and relatable, this is perfect for a summertime contemporary fix!
July 11, 2018
3.5 Stars
I read this just after the first book in the series( The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things ). So I already knew all the characters except one, Sebastian. I loved him. He was so sweet and funny. He is my favorite character from the series.
Virginia is still dealing with her weight, school life and family issues. Her family’s attitudes toward her weight has changed a lot now which was very sudden and I found that very weird.One day she drives the car in case of an emergency and suddenly her family treats her differently.
I loved the conversations between Virginia and Sebastian. They were quirky and fun. and probably for the first time I did not hate the romance side of the book.
The book as well as the ending was very predictable so I could not enjoy the story line much.
I read this just after the first book in the series( The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things ). So I already knew all the characters except one, Sebastian. I loved him. He was so sweet and funny. He is my favorite character from the series.
Virginia is still dealing with her weight, school life and family issues. Her family’s attitudes toward her weight has changed a lot now which was very sudden and I found that very weird.One day she drives the car in case of an emergency and suddenly her family treats her differently.
I loved the conversations between Virginia and Sebastian. They were quirky and fun. and probably for the first time I did not hate the romance side of the book.
The book as well as the ending was very predictable so I could not enjoy the story line much.
November 16, 2018
I enjoyed meeting Virginia in the previous book, and I was happy to see her grow and define herself even more in this book. But, I must confess, I almost feel like this book is a response to all those, who felt Byron wasn't punished enough in the last book, because once again, the family drama focused on him, and was a major plot point in this book. I think some readers will be happy that it was revisited, but I was most excited about the romance.
Virginia had that one awesome romantic at the very end of book one, but in this book, she has a full-on, wonderful, swoony romance. The problem was that it was sort of a forbidden romance, and let me tell you, it's quite a sticky situation. But I loved it! And adored the pairing and their dynamic. They were sweet and adorable and perfect together.
It was great to have Anias back with the rest of the Shreves clan. We didn't really get to know her in the first book, but I knew she was a big influence on Virginia. I don't think the Shreves family has worked through all their issues, but I thought they made some headway, and Virginia continued to find her voice and come into her own.
I was a little caught off by how open the ending was. I would be delighted to read more of Virginia's adventures, especially given the romantic possibility we were left with, but if you are looking for closure of any sort, there is none.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
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Virginia had that one awesome romantic at the very end of book one, but in this book, she has a full-on, wonderful, swoony romance. The problem was that it was sort of a forbidden romance, and let me tell you, it's quite a sticky situation. But I loved it! And adored the pairing and their dynamic. They were sweet and adorable and perfect together.
It was great to have Anias back with the rest of the Shreves clan. We didn't really get to know her in the first book, but I knew she was a big influence on Virginia. I don't think the Shreves family has worked through all their issues, but I thought they made some headway, and Virginia continued to find her voice and come into her own.
I was a little caught off by how open the ending was. I would be delighted to read more of Virginia's adventures, especially given the romantic possibility we were left with, but if you are looking for closure of any sort, there is none.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
BLOG | INSTAGRAM |TWITTER | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
August 2, 2020
Devoured this book in a day!
The Universe is Expanding and So Am I continues from where Virginia realizes that being plus size doesn’t mean she’s it’s a bad thing. She still found friends and ended with a boyfriend. But in the sequel, new challenges arises and Virginia finds herself spiraling back to a low self esteem. That’s until she meets a cute boy who makes her feel comfortable being herself around him.
Similarly to the first book, I enjoyed reading the thought process of Virginia in which some I could actually relate. It was interesting to watch her grow into a strong woman who is not afraid to stand up for herself and become her own superhero.
Besides that, I loved the complication that happened after Virginia’s brother got arrested. It made things really exciting especially the relationship between Virginia and Sebastian. I was totally rooting for them! They look like a really cute couple.
Finally, the story ended on a good note with a happy ending. I was quite satisfied with it but I’m also a little curious to see how Virginia and Sebastian’s relationship will survive.
Overall, I loved loved loved this book. It was cute, funny, complicated and touching. And I was so happy to see the change in Virginia’s family too. I’m happy I picked this book up and would recommend it to those who enjoy a cute YA contemporary.
Thank you Bookxcess for gifting me this book to read and review. Do check out their shop for more amazing book titles at a super cheap price!
The Universe is Expanding and So Am I continues from where Virginia realizes that being plus size doesn’t mean she’s it’s a bad thing. She still found friends and ended with a boyfriend. But in the sequel, new challenges arises and Virginia finds herself spiraling back to a low self esteem. That’s until she meets a cute boy who makes her feel comfortable being herself around him.
Similarly to the first book, I enjoyed reading the thought process of Virginia in which some I could actually relate. It was interesting to watch her grow into a strong woman who is not afraid to stand up for herself and become her own superhero.
Besides that, I loved the complication that happened after Virginia’s brother got arrested. It made things really exciting especially the relationship between Virginia and Sebastian. I was totally rooting for them! They look like a really cute couple.
Finally, the story ended on a good note with a happy ending. I was quite satisfied with it but I’m also a little curious to see how Virginia and Sebastian’s relationship will survive.
Overall, I loved loved loved this book. It was cute, funny, complicated and touching. And I was so happy to see the change in Virginia’s family too. I’m happy I picked this book up and would recommend it to those who enjoy a cute YA contemporary.
Thank you Bookxcess for gifting me this book to read and review. Do check out their shop for more amazing book titles at a super cheap price!
September 24, 2018
Find my series review here. The Virginia Shreves Series is a wonderful, conversational and often confrontational read. I cannot emphasise enough the significance of reading both novels consecutively. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
July 22, 2020
I hate to say this, I really really do, but I HATED this book. Like. I hated every page. I hated it from the beginning and I finished it just so I could never look at it ever again.
TRIGGER WARNINGS:
Weight, sexual abuse.
This book sucked all the joy out of my life for the whole 280 pages it took for me to finally finish it. I’m giving spoilers, so if you actually want to put yourself through this book then don’t read on. This book blatantly let a rapist be glorified and justified his actions, his parents only cared about his reputation and his future over actually giving a shit about his victim and what he actually did. MESSED UP. AND EVEN BETTER THE MAIN CHARACTER BLOODY STARTS HOOKING UP WITH THE BROTHER OF THE GIRL HER BROTHER RAPED?!??!?!?!?!?!?!?!? NO.
Not only did they do this terrible plot idea, but the whole entire main character Virginia was based on hating herself because of her weight. Every bloody chapter had her weight play a part in it. She had to put up with her boyfriend who she didn’t feel anything for anymore LITERALLY TO PROVE A POINT THAT FAT GIRLS CAN GET BOYFRIENDS TOO?!?!?!? Like????????? I’m getting so mad just thinking about it again. Who thought that was a good idea?????????? Is this really what you want bigger girls to feel? Her parents literally made her get a summer job at a GYM. I can’t. I CANNOT.
Nup. 0 Stars. Bye.
TRIGGER WARNINGS:
Weight, sexual abuse.
This book sucked all the joy out of my life for the whole 280 pages it took for me to finally finish it. I’m giving spoilers, so if you actually want to put yourself through this book then don’t read on. This book blatantly let a rapist be glorified and justified his actions, his parents only cared about his reputation and his future over actually giving a shit about his victim and what he actually did. MESSED UP. AND EVEN BETTER THE MAIN CHARACTER BLOODY STARTS HOOKING UP WITH THE BROTHER OF THE GIRL HER BROTHER RAPED?!??!?!?!?!?!?!?!? NO.
Not only did they do this terrible plot idea, but the whole entire main character Virginia was based on hating herself because of her weight. Every bloody chapter had her weight play a part in it. She had to put up with her boyfriend who she didn’t feel anything for anymore LITERALLY TO PROVE A POINT THAT FAT GIRLS CAN GET BOYFRIENDS TOO?!?!?!? Like????????? I’m getting so mad just thinking about it again. Who thought that was a good idea?????????? Is this really what you want bigger girls to feel? Her parents literally made her get a summer job at a GYM. I can’t. I CANNOT.
Nup. 0 Stars. Bye.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 5, 2022
Being a lesbian is NOT the same thing as dating the sibling of your sister's rapist!
November 23, 2018
Okay, so I must admit I haven’t actually read book one, so I was slightly worried that some of the events and context of this second instalment of the Virginia Shreves books would have been lost on me, but….
I feel like this one stood as it’s own novel, and Carolyn Mackler definitely fills the reader in regarding what’s happened to Virginia in the past, as well as her sister Anais and brother Byron. And her overbearing and controlling mother, who ridicules every aspect of her youngest daughter, Virginia’s life.
For me, the fact that this book is far more character orientated than plot, Virginia was such a treasure to read about, I loved her personal lists which were dotted throughout the book, where she makes notes such as how girls like herself should not be fat shamed and how she’s finding things about her inner self more and more, and how she doesn’t have to comply with her parents’ demands or follow their oblivious ways. She’s a Shreves, but she’ll be one on her own terms! Huzzah!
I love how Virginia is perfectly happy with her curves, and not afraid to indulge in a treat or two, even though she knows her mother will belittle or silently judge her eating habits. And when Gin’s brother does something insanely ridiculous, that Virginia doesn’t turn a blind eye and choose his side! I was cheering big time!
Whilst I wasn’t Anais’s biggest fan, I appreciate that she chose to follow her heart with her girlfriend, I love the love is love is love mantra and it’s always refreshing having even a glimpse of an f/f relationship in novels! Especially reading about both their parents reactions.
Whilst I didn’t love Phyllis, Virginia’s mother, I had to love that she named her three children after Anais Nin, Lord Byron and Virginia Woolf, respectively. And I utterly adored Virginia and Sebastian’s scenes, he made her swoon by weaving book titles in their chats and they nicknamed themselves Fry and Leela from Futurama, it was just too precious!
All in all, such a delight to read! Thank you again Bloomsbury Books and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC to review!
I feel like this one stood as it’s own novel, and Carolyn Mackler definitely fills the reader in regarding what’s happened to Virginia in the past, as well as her sister Anais and brother Byron. And her overbearing and controlling mother, who ridicules every aspect of her youngest daughter, Virginia’s life.
For me, the fact that this book is far more character orientated than plot, Virginia was such a treasure to read about, I loved her personal lists which were dotted throughout the book, where she makes notes such as how girls like herself should not be fat shamed and how she’s finding things about her inner self more and more, and how she doesn’t have to comply with her parents’ demands or follow their oblivious ways. She’s a Shreves, but she’ll be one on her own terms! Huzzah!
I love how Virginia is perfectly happy with her curves, and not afraid to indulge in a treat or two, even though she knows her mother will belittle or silently judge her eating habits. And when Gin’s brother does something insanely ridiculous, that Virginia doesn’t turn a blind eye and choose his side! I was cheering big time!
Whilst I wasn’t Anais’s biggest fan, I appreciate that she chose to follow her heart with her girlfriend, I love the love is love is love mantra and it’s always refreshing having even a glimpse of an f/f relationship in novels! Especially reading about both their parents reactions.
Whilst I didn’t love Phyllis, Virginia’s mother, I had to love that she named her three children after Anais Nin, Lord Byron and Virginia Woolf, respectively. And I utterly adored Virginia and Sebastian’s scenes, he made her swoon by weaving book titles in their chats and they nicknamed themselves Fry and Leela from Futurama, it was just too precious!
All in all, such a delight to read! Thank you again Bloomsbury Books and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC to review!
June 5, 2019
am pretty sure the first question that pops up in your mind is that ," Can I read this book as a standalone?". And the answer to that is YES. Definitely YES.
The Universe Is Expanding and So Am I , is a sequel to the Virginia Shreves series by Carolyn Mackler and as I haven't read the first book " ", I didn't keep my expectations very high. And and and THE UNIVERSE IS EXPANDING made me rethink about picking up YA Contemporary books more often.
The protagonist Virginia also known as Gin is an overweight teenager who is struggling with her life. Being the youngest of the three siblings and having a perfect brother-sister elder duo doesn't make her life easier as she is constantly being pointed out of her imperfections and asked to up her game. The only solace she has is her boyfriend Froggy and her best friends Shannon and Alyssa.
But Virginia is left distraught when she feels that her relationship with Froggy isn't working out and she doesn't feel the same way for him like she used to. Apart from that her tenuous relationship with her family worsens when her brother Bryon is accused of a date-rape and the whole family has to face the consequences. However in all this tragedy, Virginia finds someone to hold on to? A hope in her otherwise gloomy world? But will she be able to fight her parents to be with him? Will it be worth it?
I absolutely adored Virginia as a fat rep. She has her good days and days when she undermines herself but she isn't one to give up. She finds her humor in the most wackiest and awkward situations and that is something positive about her. I personally was hoping the book would be light considering it is a YA, but I am so glad that the author has put to light some of the rare issues that get sidelined otherwise. Bryon who is to be absolutely loathed for his stupidity also has his own part. to tell and it was commendable how Carolyn gives us both the sides of the story.
Mackler, just takes the back seat and lets the story flow to the readers, without being judgmental and give us the story in an enjoyable manner.
The Universe Is Expanding and So Am I , is a sequel to the Virginia Shreves series by Carolyn Mackler and as I haven't read the first book " ", I didn't keep my expectations very high. And and and THE UNIVERSE IS EXPANDING made me rethink about picking up YA Contemporary books more often.
The protagonist Virginia also known as Gin is an overweight teenager who is struggling with her life. Being the youngest of the three siblings and having a perfect brother-sister elder duo doesn't make her life easier as she is constantly being pointed out of her imperfections and asked to up her game. The only solace she has is her boyfriend Froggy and her best friends Shannon and Alyssa.
But Virginia is left distraught when she feels that her relationship with Froggy isn't working out and she doesn't feel the same way for him like she used to. Apart from that her tenuous relationship with her family worsens when her brother Bryon is accused of a date-rape and the whole family has to face the consequences. However in all this tragedy, Virginia finds someone to hold on to? A hope in her otherwise gloomy world? But will she be able to fight her parents to be with him? Will it be worth it?
I absolutely adored Virginia as a fat rep. She has her good days and days when she undermines herself but she isn't one to give up. She finds her humor in the most wackiest and awkward situations and that is something positive about her. I personally was hoping the book would be light considering it is a YA, but I am so glad that the author has put to light some of the rare issues that get sidelined otherwise. Bryon who is to be absolutely loathed for his stupidity also has his own part. to tell and it was commendable how Carolyn gives us both the sides of the story.
Mackler, just takes the back seat and lets the story flow to the readers, without being judgmental and give us the story in an enjoyable manner.
August 30, 2018
*I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review*
This is the squeal to The Earth, My Butt and Other Big Round Things and this review may contain spoilers for the previous book.
At the beginning of this book Virginia finally feels like she is getting her life together, she is finally starting to accept herself as she is and learning how to cope with what her brother did and how it affected the relationship she had with her brother. That is until she breaks up with her boyfriend Foggy, finds out her best friend will not be coming home for the summer and her brother is arrested for date rape. She also meets Nate who she has an instant connection with but their lives are intertwined in ways neither of them could have guessed.
My love for Virginia continued to grow in this book. I like the fact that though she is much more confident in this book she still has her moments of self doubt which I felt was really realistic as the journey to self love isn't a straight line and everyone has their bad days.
Virginia's parents annoyed me just as much in this books as the last I don't feel like they have grown at all throughout the series. I loved seeing more from Virginia's older sister who is back from her two year long volunteer job with the peace corps, and has brought her girlfriend with her. I loved this representation and that fact that it emphasis the fact that you don't have to put a label on yourself just because the rest of the world wants to put you in neat little boxes.
The romance in this was ten times better than the previous one. You could see the chemistry between Virginia and Nate and they fit together really well.
Overall, I really loved this book and felt is was a great squeal and gave it 4 out of 5 stars.
Trigger warnings - off the page rape, fatphobia.
This is the squeal to The Earth, My Butt and Other Big Round Things and this review may contain spoilers for the previous book.
At the beginning of this book Virginia finally feels like she is getting her life together, she is finally starting to accept herself as she is and learning how to cope with what her brother did and how it affected the relationship she had with her brother. That is until she breaks up with her boyfriend Foggy, finds out her best friend will not be coming home for the summer and her brother is arrested for date rape. She also meets Nate who she has an instant connection with but their lives are intertwined in ways neither of them could have guessed.
My love for Virginia continued to grow in this book. I like the fact that though she is much more confident in this book she still has her moments of self doubt which I felt was really realistic as the journey to self love isn't a straight line and everyone has their bad days.
Virginia's parents annoyed me just as much in this books as the last I don't feel like they have grown at all throughout the series. I loved seeing more from Virginia's older sister who is back from her two year long volunteer job with the peace corps, and has brought her girlfriend with her. I loved this representation and that fact that it emphasis the fact that you don't have to put a label on yourself just because the rest of the world wants to put you in neat little boxes.
The romance in this was ten times better than the previous one. You could see the chemistry between Virginia and Nate and they fit together really well.
Overall, I really loved this book and felt is was a great squeal and gave it 4 out of 5 stars.
Trigger warnings - off the page rape, fatphobia.
April 23, 2019
I think I feel the same way about this novel as I did the first in this sequel... slightly indifferent. There were lots of things to like, and then there were also a lot of things that I felt were probably not great for younger girls to read. I thought Virginia was a tough and interesting girl, but I also felt like there were times that she needed to stick up for herself and be a little more responsible for her choices. I thought she was a great character with a big heart, but I just kept hoping she would stand up for herself to her family a little more.
All in all, it was a cute read. It was entertaining and kept me flipping pages until the end, but I honestly just kept feeling really uncomfortable and I felt sorry for all of the characters in the book. It was just a little sad for me and not my favorite read. Thank you to Bloomsbury Children's Books and NetGalley for sharing this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Rating 2.5/5
All in all, it was a cute read. It was entertaining and kept me flipping pages until the end, but I honestly just kept feeling really uncomfortable and I felt sorry for all of the characters in the book. It was just a little sad for me and not my favorite read. Thank you to Bloomsbury Children's Books and NetGalley for sharing this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Rating 2.5/5
January 16, 2019
I loved this book and it was super easy to read just like The Earth, my Butt and other Big Round Things! The story was brilliantly written and the main characters were relatable and enjoyable to read.
I liked the way the book finished but I would also like another book and Virginia's story to continue but I wouldn't be surprised if this was the end of the series.
I would recommend this book/series to anyone who wants a super easy and good contemporary to read!
I liked the way the book finished but I would also like another book and Virginia's story to continue but I wouldn't be surprised if this was the end of the series.
I would recommend this book/series to anyone who wants a super easy and good contemporary to read!
June 9, 2018
I want more. I want a third book.
November 24, 2021
For some girls it’s sexy when a guy bench-presses or throws a football, but he’s slaying me with the book references.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. My thoughts and opinions are my own. Also, the quote I used may have changed or been altered in some way, but I am quoting from what I received.
I didn't realize this was the second book in a series, but The Universe Is Expanding and So Am I was able to stand on its own. If anything, it makes me more curious about the first book!
I'm relieved Virginia didn't immediately back her brother when he was charged with date-rape. Families tend to do that with their loved ones, because they don't want to see them in pain or in trouble, despite what they've done. Virginia knew Byron's actions were wrong, but she also remembers her brother from before the suspension and charges. She's conflicted over her feelings, but never wants Byron to avoid punishment. It was an interesting perspective to read from, because her head and heart were constantly conflicted.
Virginia was an amazing character. I hated that her parents would body-shame people in front of her, or even hint that she could do better herself. It was awful to view from the outside, and I cannot imagine how someone would feel on the receiving end of those offhanded comments. They destroyed her confidence and made her question herself. Parents: love your children as they are. I never want my children to feel like something about them needs to be changed. Society has dictated what people should look like today, and frankly... it's bullshit. I'm a "curvaceous chick," too. We should respect all body types and love people for who they are.
I wasn't sure where this story was going to go, and I was a little disappointed by the ending. It was similar to being suspended on a roller coaster and waiting for a drop that never happens. There wasn't a cliffhanger, or any indication that things would be continued later on, and maybe an epilogue would have made the story feel more final. Instead, I'm left with questions and feeling like there is more story to be read. Twice I've caught myself going back to pick this book up, only to remember that I've finished it and there's nothing left to read.
Overall, the story was wonderful and I really enjoyed being in Virginia's head. She's an incredibly compassionate person that appreciates people. She makes a point to learn their names, so they're not simply referred to by their job descriptions (example: the tree woman or the lawn man). Her relationship with Sebastian was sweet, and I loved their interactions with each other. The family dynamics were imperfect but realistic. There were little arguments and disagreements, but they did care about each other. They may not have always shown it in the best way, but it was there.
Everything about this book felt authentic, and now I feel like the author purposefully ended the story the way she did. It feels like Carolyn Mackler stopped in the middle of a thought, but that's life. Life is forever flowing around us. Virginia, Sebastian, Bryon, Annie... their lives are going to continue moving forward in one way or another. We get to see a glimpse of what might happen to them, but there are so many different paths they could take. I think we're supposed to be left feeling curious and optimistic about their future.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. My thoughts and opinions are my own. Also, the quote I used may have changed or been altered in some way, but I am quoting from what I received.
I didn't realize this was the second book in a series, but The Universe Is Expanding and So Am I was able to stand on its own. If anything, it makes me more curious about the first book!
I'm relieved Virginia didn't immediately back her brother when he was charged with date-rape. Families tend to do that with their loved ones, because they don't want to see them in pain or in trouble, despite what they've done. Virginia knew Byron's actions were wrong, but she also remembers her brother from before the suspension and charges. She's conflicted over her feelings, but never wants Byron to avoid punishment. It was an interesting perspective to read from, because her head and heart were constantly conflicted.
Virginia was an amazing character. I hated that her parents would body-shame people in front of her, or even hint that she could do better herself. It was awful to view from the outside, and I cannot imagine how someone would feel on the receiving end of those offhanded comments. They destroyed her confidence and made her question herself. Parents: love your children as they are. I never want my children to feel like something about them needs to be changed. Society has dictated what people should look like today, and frankly... it's bullshit. I'm a "curvaceous chick," too. We should respect all body types and love people for who they are.
I wasn't sure where this story was going to go, and I was a little disappointed by the ending. It was similar to being suspended on a roller coaster and waiting for a drop that never happens. There wasn't a cliffhanger, or any indication that things would be continued later on, and maybe an epilogue would have made the story feel more final. Instead, I'm left with questions and feeling like there is more story to be read. Twice I've caught myself going back to pick this book up, only to remember that I've finished it and there's nothing left to read.
Overall, the story was wonderful and I really enjoyed being in Virginia's head. She's an incredibly compassionate person that appreciates people. She makes a point to learn their names, so they're not simply referred to by their job descriptions (example: the tree woman or the lawn man). Her relationship with Sebastian was sweet, and I loved their interactions with each other. The family dynamics were imperfect but realistic. There were little arguments and disagreements, but they did care about each other. They may not have always shown it in the best way, but it was there.
Everything about this book felt authentic, and now I feel like the author purposefully ended the story the way she did. It feels like Carolyn Mackler stopped in the middle of a thought, but that's life. Life is forever flowing around us. Virginia, Sebastian, Bryon, Annie... their lives are going to continue moving forward in one way or another. We get to see a glimpse of what might happen to them, but there are so many different paths they could take. I think we're supposed to be left feeling curious and optimistic about their future.
August 8, 2018
I liked revisiting Virginia Shreves, I reread the first one in preparation: big mistake. If you read this, read it as a stand-alone its probably better. Or read it without rereading the original. But just read one (I vote the first one) because its essentially the same story (there are differences but the growth that the characters showed in the first one seem completely disgarded) and there are inconsistencies in the second book. For example, the first one takes place in 2005 when it was published, TRL was still on. Now we are in 2018 and the Fates and the Furies and Americanah have been published and netflix is a thing. I hated that, but I guess the author wanted to give young teenage girls today their own Virginia Shreves, so whatever. The book also has some errors in connecting the two: Anais went to Dartmouth in the first book, she went to Brown in this one. It's just annoying because the first was fresh in my mind.
The best part of this was Virginia and her commentary, I also liked watching her really fall in love with someone and explain the concept of falling out of like.
It was an okay reading experience, it was disappointing because I wanted more.
The best part of this was Virginia and her commentary, I also liked watching her really fall in love with someone and explain the concept of falling out of like.
It was an okay reading experience, it was disappointing because I wanted more.
December 16, 2018
This book is the perfect sequel to The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things! The first book was one of my favourites growing up! So when I started the Banned Book Club, naturally it was one of the first books we read.
This book starts right where the first book ends. Virginia needs to come to terms with the mess her family (and brother) is in. At the same time, she realises that Froggy just isn't for her. How she moves on and also makes her peace with her family forms the rest of the story.
I could never love this book as much as the first one, but it's a good followup nonetheless. If you like The Earth, My Butt...you'll definitely like this one too.
This book starts right where the first book ends. Virginia needs to come to terms with the mess her family (and brother) is in. At the same time, she realises that Froggy just isn't for her. How she moves on and also makes her peace with her family forms the rest of the story.
I could never love this book as much as the first one, but it's a good followup nonetheless. If you like The Earth, My Butt...you'll definitely like this one too.
April 29, 2020
4 surprised stars!
Full disclosure: I requested this for review unaware that it was a sequel. I did not read „The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things” by Carolyn Mackler, nevertheless I ended up enjoying „The Universe Is Expanding and So Am I” quite a bit. A lot more, in fact, than the initial couple of chapters led me to believe.
However, to start at the beginning, the book continues with a now 16-year-old Virginia (nicknamed ‘Gin’ by her family which I found adorable) who has finally accepted who she is inside and out. Sadly though, not all is well as her older brother Byron has been charged with a date-rape which shattered their once great relationship. She needs to learn how to navigate that new reality, even more so when her relationship with boyfriend Froggy starts dissolving and she meets Nate. And Nate… let me tell you! Haha. Actually, no, I won’t because you’ll read about it and it’ll be even better than me telling you.
I went into this mildly annoyed with the narration style. Or rather I was annoyed with Virginia’s POV. Not to name drop but there is a certain holier-than-thou attitiude certain characters in certain YA contemporary novels exhibit which I find very irritating. Unfortunately for me, Virginia’s attitiude read like that for the first couple of chapters. Then it got better (or I got used to it) and I ended up rooting for her, finding that she could learn from her mistakes and improve upon her past judgmental self (I just can’t stand black-or-white judgmental characters, call it my personal flaw in character or whatever but I cannot, my skin crawls). I was also a fan of her newly blossoming romantic relationship and wanted, more than anything, for Byron and hers brother/sister dynamic to be salvaged.
I never read the first book so I’m missing information here but from what I gathered from this one, I could tell that the sibling relationship between Virginia and Byron used to be pretty great. He was an older brother who could be a dick sometimes but they were close and it was overall good. Reading about Virginia’s life post rape accusation made against her older brother was therefore absolutely heartbreaking. My heart was wrenching for her because it was an impossible situation. How can one choose sides? A girl was hurt. Badly. Irrevocably. But then again he says he was drunk and doesn’t remember a thing. And he IS your brother! The latter first and foremost could send any reason packing. I felt the emotional turmoil and I found myself sympathizing with Virginia’s difficult family life A LOT. Despite my initial reservations at the beginning of this book which I see as victory because sometimes first impressions are impossible to surpass.
I liked where this book went family life wise, heart feels what heart will wise, too. Some of the conslusions were very mature and I loved what I was reading. I wasn’t that invested in the romance part itself but I also don’t think it was intended as primary focus of this book. Sure, it influenced a major part of the plot and how things concluded but it wasn’t made into something dramatic. It was important but its importance wasn’t blown out of proportion which happens a lot in contemporary YA. I was grateful for that and I strongly believe that „The Universe Is Expanding and So Am I” benfited from not expanding on drama in an unnecessary way.
All in all this book really took me aback. I expected to breeze through it but not for the subject matter to land so well and in such a profound way. As I read it having never read the first book and still enjoyed it a lot I don’t think it is necessary to start with the first. Although I’m pretty sure one can only benefit from getting to know the origins of this story better.
**massive thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for providing an arc in exchange for a fair and honest review**
Full disclosure: I requested this for review unaware that it was a sequel. I did not read „The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things” by Carolyn Mackler, nevertheless I ended up enjoying „The Universe Is Expanding and So Am I” quite a bit. A lot more, in fact, than the initial couple of chapters led me to believe.
However, to start at the beginning, the book continues with a now 16-year-old Virginia (nicknamed ‘Gin’ by her family which I found adorable) who has finally accepted who she is inside and out. Sadly though, not all is well as her older brother Byron has been charged with a date-rape which shattered their once great relationship. She needs to learn how to navigate that new reality, even more so when her relationship with boyfriend Froggy starts dissolving and she meets Nate. And Nate… let me tell you! Haha. Actually, no, I won’t because you’ll read about it and it’ll be even better than me telling you.
I went into this mildly annoyed with the narration style. Or rather I was annoyed with Virginia’s POV. Not to name drop but there is a certain holier-than-thou attitiude certain characters in certain YA contemporary novels exhibit which I find very irritating. Unfortunately for me, Virginia’s attitiude read like that for the first couple of chapters. Then it got better (or I got used to it) and I ended up rooting for her, finding that she could learn from her mistakes and improve upon her past judgmental self (I just can’t stand black-or-white judgmental characters, call it my personal flaw in character or whatever but I cannot, my skin crawls). I was also a fan of her newly blossoming romantic relationship and wanted, more than anything, for Byron and hers brother/sister dynamic to be salvaged.
I never read the first book so I’m missing information here but from what I gathered from this one, I could tell that the sibling relationship between Virginia and Byron used to be pretty great. He was an older brother who could be a dick sometimes but they were close and it was overall good. Reading about Virginia’s life post rape accusation made against her older brother was therefore absolutely heartbreaking. My heart was wrenching for her because it was an impossible situation. How can one choose sides? A girl was hurt. Badly. Irrevocably. But then again he says he was drunk and doesn’t remember a thing. And he IS your brother! The latter first and foremost could send any reason packing. I felt the emotional turmoil and I found myself sympathizing with Virginia’s difficult family life A LOT. Despite my initial reservations at the beginning of this book which I see as victory because sometimes first impressions are impossible to surpass.
I liked where this book went family life wise, heart feels what heart will wise, too. Some of the conslusions were very mature and I loved what I was reading. I wasn’t that invested in the romance part itself but I also don’t think it was intended as primary focus of this book. Sure, it influenced a major part of the plot and how things concluded but it wasn’t made into something dramatic. It was important but its importance wasn’t blown out of proportion which happens a lot in contemporary YA. I was grateful for that and I strongly believe that „The Universe Is Expanding and So Am I” benfited from not expanding on drama in an unnecessary way.
All in all this book really took me aback. I expected to breeze through it but not for the subject matter to land so well and in such a profound way. As I read it having never read the first book and still enjoyed it a lot I don’t think it is necessary to start with the first. Although I’m pretty sure one can only benefit from getting to know the origins of this story better.
**massive thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for providing an arc in exchange for a fair and honest review**
May 30, 2018
I read this book immediately after finishing the first book in the series (The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things), so I was already invested in the characters and able to jump right in. The first thing I noticed was that the author did a great job of modernizing this book, without it being obvious that it was written 15 years later. It was a smooth transition from one book to the next, although of course a lot has changed in those 15 years. The author also did a lot of “damage control” in this book, correcting some of the outdated ideologies from the previous book, without making it obvious or distracting from the story. But truthfully, if you haven’t and/or don’t want to read the first book, this book also works really well as a standalone.
Just as in the previous book, Virginia is such an amazing character! I can relate to her so much and remember struggling with a lot of the same things when I was a teenager. While reading this, I got so frustrated whenever her parents or brother made careless comments about her weight. As someone who’s been on the receiving end of those comments, I know they hurt and I hurt for her as I was reading those parts. But she handled it so well! She even pointed out when her parents were body-shaming her, although they didn't always stop or try to understand how it made her feel. Despite that, Virginia was able to fight past her insecurities, learned how to accept herself just the way she is, and stayed true to herself no matter what life threw at her. In my eyes, she is a great role model for teens. I also loved Sebastian's character and their unlikely friendship.
One thing I felt like the author could have done a bit more with was the topic of sexual assault. We don’t often see books written from the perspective of the family of the rapist, so there was a lot of potential here, but it seemed like the author wanted to keep the main focus on Virginia's issues. I understand that reasoning, but I can't help but feel like there was a missed opportunity here. Especially in light of the current #metoo movement. However, the parts that are included are really well done.
Overall, The Universe Is Expanding and So Am I was an enjoyable and fun read with a positive message. I would definitely recommend it!
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Thank you to Bloomsbury and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book for free in exchange for my honest review.
BLOG: Dorie's Reading Corner
Just as in the previous book, Virginia is such an amazing character! I can relate to her so much and remember struggling with a lot of the same things when I was a teenager. While reading this, I got so frustrated whenever her parents or brother made careless comments about her weight. As someone who’s been on the receiving end of those comments, I know they hurt and I hurt for her as I was reading those parts. But she handled it so well! She even pointed out when her parents were body-shaming her, although they didn't always stop or try to understand how it made her feel. Despite that, Virginia was able to fight past her insecurities, learned how to accept herself just the way she is, and stayed true to herself no matter what life threw at her. In my eyes, she is a great role model for teens. I also loved Sebastian's character and their unlikely friendship.
One thing I felt like the author could have done a bit more with was the topic of sexual assault. We don’t often see books written from the perspective of the family of the rapist, so there was a lot of potential here, but it seemed like the author wanted to keep the main focus on Virginia's issues. I understand that reasoning, but I can't help but feel like there was a missed opportunity here. Especially in light of the current #metoo movement. However, the parts that are included are really well done.
Overall, The Universe Is Expanding and So Am I was an enjoyable and fun read with a positive message. I would definitely recommend it!
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Thank you to Bloomsbury and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book for free in exchange for my honest review.
BLOG: Dorie's Reading Corner
October 21, 2018
Alight I’ll admit it I am usually the first one to hate contemporary book but this... was EVERYTHING.
I have never been so involved with reading a contemporary in my life. I honestly smacked someone with the book because they thought it suitable to interrupt me. I couldn’t stop reading it, I didn’t put it down. I read this book cover to cover and want more.
There are so many amazing points to this story so bear with me.
A character. Actually scratch that. The MAIN character is ‘overweight’ not the side kick, no the annoying person in the background of the book and we never learn their name. The main character of this book was technically over weight and it was the most amazing aspect of this book. FYI to all you authors out there, we fatties can be as good of a character as any one skinner then us. Just don’t forget it!
Not only does our main character carry around extra weight she also carries around the insecurities that come with it. And I am sure that I am not the only one that can say yes, been there and dealt with that. Virginia, the star and our leading lady lives and struggles with her weight and how people perceive it and how her health freak of a mother deals with it. Being a teenager is hard enough, you literally want to pull your skin off your body like a suit without the added stress of what others think of you as well. And on that note, love your body not only is it the only one you get but it is fucking fantastic and you are perfect!
Sebastian was a dream come true for Viv and as much as I would have ignore the crap out of this snooze fest if I met him in real life, he and Viv were just too amazing together, bringing each other up and never letting them fall. How they deal with the drama of the family and the situation and despite everything love each other is soo charming and Cinderella-ish. TO be fair if I didn’t love Viv as much as I do than this romantic aspect of the book would have irritated me and I would have thrown sand in my eyes but it made Viv happy so therefor I tolerated Sebastian. That and he shares the same name as an awesome red crab but hey.
Characters aside, this storyline was intense and the whole family horror that Viv faces is full on and it reminds you that sometimes you are lucky to live where you are. I wouldn’t be able to put myself in her shoes and carry on so calmly as she has done. Viv is honestly a damn superstar.
Honestly couldn’t fault the book. The words were distractingly engaging and Viv is everything. Cannot wait to see was Mackler produces next!!!
Love yourself. You are amazing.
August 7, 2018
I really enjoyed getting to hear more from Virginia and loved being back in her world. I read the 2 books in this series back to back and am really pleased that I did because jumping from one right to the other meant I just got the carry on the story five months after it left off. I read an early version of the previous novel and I understand that it has been updated in the last fifteen years but I found it a bit odd to jump from talking about Tower record and Sports Authority Gift cards to be talking about Brexit. So do be warned to read a later version of The Earth My Butt and Other Big round Things so you don't get the confusion that I had!
Catching up with Virginia was great and since she conquered the idea that fat people don't deserve love and relationships in the previous novel, we now see her with many more potential love interests, this added a whole other layer to the story. Her love of fashion and her ambition has also developed and so we get to have a lot more fun with the clothes that she wears and the adventures that she goes on- I loved it.
This book does revisit the issues that came up with Virginia's brother in the first novel but things get a lot deeper and darker in this book so if you found that triggering then you should definitely heed the warning with this novel. I admire the courage of this author though to take that deeper and err on the darker side of things because it is something that needs to be talked about and as we know, that is not something that Virginia's family like to do!
I really enjoyed the fact that not much time has passed between the two novels but that Virginia has done a great deal of growing up in the times across the two books. This really reflects the rate of development during this pivotal time in any young person's life, things change just as much day to day when you are a teen as when you are a toddler and not enough books reflect that. I really recommend this book and reading both books back to back. I especially recommend this to people in the same situation as Virginia but if you are older than a teen and have ever been called fat as an insult then I know this will ring true with you as much as it did with me!
Catching up with Virginia was great and since she conquered the idea that fat people don't deserve love and relationships in the previous novel, we now see her with many more potential love interests, this added a whole other layer to the story. Her love of fashion and her ambition has also developed and so we get to have a lot more fun with the clothes that she wears and the adventures that she goes on- I loved it.
This book does revisit the issues that came up with Virginia's brother in the first novel but things get a lot deeper and darker in this book so if you found that triggering then you should definitely heed the warning with this novel. I admire the courage of this author though to take that deeper and err on the darker side of things because it is something that needs to be talked about and as we know, that is not something that Virginia's family like to do!
I really enjoyed the fact that not much time has passed between the two novels but that Virginia has done a great deal of growing up in the times across the two books. This really reflects the rate of development during this pivotal time in any young person's life, things change just as much day to day when you are a teen as when you are a toddler and not enough books reflect that. I really recommend this book and reading both books back to back. I especially recommend this to people in the same situation as Virginia but if you are older than a teen and have ever been called fat as an insult then I know this will ring true with you as much as it did with me!
February 7, 2018
Virginia has always been curvy, and her feelings about her body have long been complicated. Her family’s attitudes toward her weight haven’t helped. She was thrilled to find a boyfriend (see The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big, Round Things), but now she’s not sure she even likes the guy all that much. If she breaks up with him, will she ever be part of a couple again? Then, family drama breaks out, not to mention friend drama, summer employment, and the dreaded driving test.
I read The Earth, My Butt... back in library school (how is that even 10+ years ago already?), and this book picks up right where that one left off. I’d be interested to see how that works when reading the two books together, since this one name-checks stuff like Minecraft and Hamilton, placing it pretty definitely in the present. On the other hand, I have only the vaguest memories of the earlier book and had no problem following this one, so it works just fine as a stand-alone. I read this all in one evening, so obviously I liked it a lot. Great characters, interesting conflicts, good pacing — if realistic YA is your thing, this one’s worth reading.
I read The Earth, My Butt... back in library school (how is that even 10+ years ago already?), and this book picks up right where that one left off. I’d be interested to see how that works when reading the two books together, since this one name-checks stuff like Minecraft and Hamilton, placing it pretty definitely in the present. On the other hand, I have only the vaguest memories of the earlier book and had no problem following this one, so it works just fine as a stand-alone. I read this all in one evening, so obviously I liked it a lot. Great characters, interesting conflicts, good pacing — if realistic YA is your thing, this one’s worth reading.
August 11, 2018
★★★★☆/★★★★★
Book Review: The Universe is Expanding and So Am I by Carolyn Mackler
Positives
🥠 Virginia
🥠 All the book references
🥠 Sea-glass-eyed, long haired artists who definitely do not skateboard, because no coordination
🥠 Growing up/growing some balls
Negatives
🥠 Somewhat predictable, but it didn't detract from the story
This super cute first person YA contemporary wasn't just fluff for the brain. Virginia is a fantastic protagonist and I can totally see her as a purple haired, kick-boxing curvaceous superhero. I loved all of the reading/book references, especially this one which had me laughing out loud:'I glance longingly at my bedside table , at the cover of Fates and Furies. I wish I could be reading right now.' Throw in a sea-eyed-eyed, long haired artist and some forbidden lust and we have a fun romp through New York as Virginia navigates her summer break (which is not going to plan) and some fairly serious issues involving her brother which could have serious ramifications for the future of her family.
Really enjoyed this, read it in two sittings - perfect summer YA read.
Book Review: The Universe is Expanding and So Am I by Carolyn Mackler
Positives
🥠 Virginia
🥠 All the book references
🥠 Sea-glass-eyed, long haired artists who definitely do not skateboard, because no coordination
🥠 Growing up/growing some balls
Negatives
🥠 Somewhat predictable, but it didn't detract from the story
This super cute first person YA contemporary wasn't just fluff for the brain. Virginia is a fantastic protagonist and I can totally see her as a purple haired, kick-boxing curvaceous superhero. I loved all of the reading/book references, especially this one which had me laughing out loud:'I glance longingly at my bedside table , at the cover of Fates and Furies. I wish I could be reading right now.' Throw in a sea-eyed-eyed, long haired artist and some forbidden lust and we have a fun romp through New York as Virginia navigates her summer break (which is not going to plan) and some fairly serious issues involving her brother which could have serious ramifications for the future of her family.
Really enjoyed this, read it in two sittings - perfect summer YA read.
August 11, 2018
★★★★☆/★★★★★
Book Review: The Universe is Expanding and So Am I by Carolyn Mackler
Positives
🥠 Virginia
🥠 All the book references
🥠 Sea-glass-eyed, long haired artists who definitely do not skateboard, because no coordination
🥠 Growing up/growing some balls
Negatives
🥠 Somewhat predictable, but it didn't detract from the story
This super cute first person YA contemporary wasn't just fluff for the brain. Virginia is a fantastic protagonist and I can totally see her as a purple haired, kick-boxing curvaceous superhero. I loved all of the reading/book references, especially this one which had me laughing out loud:'I glance longingly at my bedside table , at the cover of Fates and Furies. I wish I could be reading right now.' Throw in a sea-eyed-eyed, long haired artist and some forbidden lust and we have a fun romp through New York as Virginia navigates her summer break (which is not going to plan) and some fairly serious issues involving her brother which could have serious ramifications for the future of her family.
Really enjoyed this, read it in two sittings - perfect summer YA read.
Book Review: The Universe is Expanding and So Am I by Carolyn Mackler
Positives
🥠 Virginia
🥠 All the book references
🥠 Sea-glass-eyed, long haired artists who definitely do not skateboard, because no coordination
🥠 Growing up/growing some balls
Negatives
🥠 Somewhat predictable, but it didn't detract from the story
This super cute first person YA contemporary wasn't just fluff for the brain. Virginia is a fantastic protagonist and I can totally see her as a purple haired, kick-boxing curvaceous superhero. I loved all of the reading/book references, especially this one which had me laughing out loud:'I glance longingly at my bedside table , at the cover of Fates and Furies. I wish I could be reading right now.' Throw in a sea-eyed-eyed, long haired artist and some forbidden lust and we have a fun romp through New York as Virginia navigates her summer break (which is not going to plan) and some fairly serious issues involving her brother which could have serious ramifications for the future of her family.
Really enjoyed this, read it in two sittings - perfect summer YA read.
July 29, 2019
Her writing is really nice and witty. Once in a while when I feel too heavy with life’s stress I pick up a YA like this to lighten up my mind and have some fun.
This book is a sequal to the first book : The Earth , My Butt and Other Big Round Things.
The cover is too pretty. Absolutely love it.
And to my happiness it is can be read as standalone. You donor need to read the first part to understand this sequal.
I loved the character of Virginia , totally cool 16 year old kid with her own style , only thing is she goes through a lot of body shaming from her friends and family who are too much into fat ness regime ! As a teenager she is going through a lot of stuffs to be true like she is getting more wide but cannot control her taste buds , her bestie is miles away and their friendship is at stack, she lost her interest in her current bf , met another who is too handsome to be her partner and then there is this out of the blue huge unthinkable family crisis involving her elder brother.
Her narrating of her life’s moments is really funny and giggle worthy , bold that how she is handling all this along with the body shaming comments , relatable to a teenager mind and true to heart.
I liked this book . It was a stress reliever !
This book is a sequal to the first book : The Earth , My Butt and Other Big Round Things.
The cover is too pretty. Absolutely love it.
And to my happiness it is can be read as standalone. You donor need to read the first part to understand this sequal.
I loved the character of Virginia , totally cool 16 year old kid with her own style , only thing is she goes through a lot of body shaming from her friends and family who are too much into fat ness regime ! As a teenager she is going through a lot of stuffs to be true like she is getting more wide but cannot control her taste buds , her bestie is miles away and their friendship is at stack, she lost her interest in her current bf , met another who is too handsome to be her partner and then there is this out of the blue huge unthinkable family crisis involving her elder brother.
Her narrating of her life’s moments is really funny and giggle worthy , bold that how she is handling all this along with the body shaming comments , relatable to a teenager mind and true to heart.
I liked this book . It was a stress reliever !
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