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Phoebe Unfired
Sixteen-year-old Phoebe Benson wasn’t always germophobic.
There was a time she didn’t worry obsessively about rogue pathogens lurking on every surface, lying in wait to contaminate her.
But that was before her brother Toby’s premature birth left him with underdeveloped lungs. Before she got Covid and infected him, putting his already fragile life in danger.
To protect Toby’s health in the years that follow, Phoebe dedicates herself to pathogen avoidance, refusing to touch any potential sources of contamination—handrails, doorknobs, vending machine buttons, and even other people—leading to an unintended life of seclusion. By the time she reaches high school, her only sources of respite are pottery class and her friendship with Walter, the elderly owner of the used bookstore where she works part-time.
Now Walter’s devised a plan to help Phoebe overcome her anxiety, and she must decide whether to continue isolating herself or risk everything initiating a friendship with the charming subway busker she can’t help but want to touch.
There was a time she didn’t worry obsessively about rogue pathogens lurking on every surface, lying in wait to contaminate her.
But that was before her brother Toby’s premature birth left him with underdeveloped lungs. Before she got Covid and infected him, putting his already fragile life in danger.
To protect Toby’s health in the years that follow, Phoebe dedicates herself to pathogen avoidance, refusing to touch any potential sources of contamination—handrails, doorknobs, vending machine buttons, and even other people—leading to an unintended life of seclusion. By the time she reaches high school, her only sources of respite are pottery class and her friendship with Walter, the elderly owner of the used bookstore where she works part-time.
Now Walter’s devised a plan to help Phoebe overcome her anxiety, and she must decide whether to continue isolating herself or risk everything initiating a friendship with the charming subway busker she can’t help but want to touch.
292 pages, Hardcover
Published June 15, 2021
2 people are currently reading
638 people want to read
About the author
Amalie Jahn
18 books350 followersUSA Today bestselling author Amalie Jahn is the recipient of the Literary Classics Seal of Approval and the Readers' Favorite Gold Medal for her debut YA novel, The Clay Lion. Her first YA contemporary, The Next to Last Mistake, won the prestigious IBPA Benjamin Franklin Award in 2020 and A Walk Between Raindrops was selected by Kirkus as one of the Best Indie Books of 2023. A TED speaker, human rights advocate, and active promoter of kindness, she lives in North Carolina with her husband, two children, and three extremely overfed cats.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
February 9, 2021
I was lucky enough to read an early version of this book and it is AMAZING. Phoebe is a character you can't help but fall in love with. I want to wrap her up and put her in my pocket and carry her with me everywhere. Her story is so real and has all the feels. Be prepared to laugh and cry with this absolutely amazing story.
Amalie Jahn is a brilliant writer. I can see more awards for her in the future.
Amalie Jahn is a brilliant writer. I can see more awards for her in the future.
April 14, 2021
Phoebe Unfired has to be one of the most wholesome, heartwarming stories about friendship, family, love, and overcoming trauma. It is one of those books you know is going to be an instant hit the moment you start reading, and I have no doubt it is going to be one of my favorite books of 2021 already.
Set in a post-COVID world, the story follows Phoebe as she struggles to make friends while battling her germaphobia. Our poor girl developed the phobia after infecting her younger brother with Covid-19 and nearly losing him as a result. The book revolves around her, and her best friend Walter who also suffers from general anxiety disorder, and how the two of them help each other overcome their demons and have some semblance of a normal life.
The representation of mental health in this book was absolutely spot on. I loved how the writer handled such a delicate topic with nuance and sensitivity. She makes it very easy for the reader to not only sympathize with Phoebe and other characters with mental health issues, but she also makes you empathize with them and helps you see the world from their perspective.
I loved the fact that she does not show any one-size-fits-all solution, and I loved how the romance in the story does not take the spotlight away from the main story, which is Phoebe's personal struggle with her phobia. I will admit, that when I first picked up this book, I was a bit concerned that the love interest will be a typical knight in shining armor who magically cures our protagonist's mental health issues, but that was not the case at all.
Far from it, the love interest is simply one of the sweetest fictional characters I have ever had a crush on who supports Phoebe and gives her the motivation to continue to work on overcoming her fears. He shows Phoebe, and the readers by extension, that there is no shame in needing special accommodations. He shows her that her anxiety does not make her a burden because when we love someone, we always make compromises for them without a second thought.
Another thing that I really loved about this book was the family dynamics. In many young adult books, we barely see the family being actually present in our protagonist's life. But in Phoebe's life, her family plays a big, active role, which was both realistic and sweet to see because we were able to see how Phoebe's anxiety disorder affects them all as a unit.
I loved how supportive her parents were, and at the same time, I noticed their subtle but obvious willingness to put Phoebe's life on hold if it meant keeping their other child safe. It is unfair, yes, but parents are not perfect and it was nice to see the author acknowledging that.
The bond between Phoebe and her brother was also just too sweet, and it broke my heart to see how her disorder would cause rifts between them occasionally.
And of course, the relationship between Phoebe and Walter is yet another highlight of this book. It seems unlikely that a 64-year-old man and a teenager can become best friends, but Amalie Jahn shows us anything is possible when two people show compassion and understanding towards each other.
This goes for all the supportive characters too; they were well-developed and played an active role in the plot and in helping Phoebe's overall character growth too.
My only issue with this book perhaps is that it is never clear what Phoebe's ethnicity is. The reason why I am even bringing it up is because the writer clearly states that the love interest is a person of color, Walter is Jewish...but when it comes to Phoebe, we can only guess that she is Asian based on the kind of food her mother is cooking. I felt like this was a huge missed opportunity to clearly show some Asian representation. Especially because the writer specifically showed us that they normally eat Asian food for dinner, so it really did not make sense to me why she did not make Phoebe's race clearer.
All in all, this book is a MUST READ you guys, especially if you want a lovely, hopeful story about healing and recovery. The ending was very realistic, and it will leave you with warm fuzzy feelings and the hope that things can get better, if you keep on trying to overcome your demons.
Set in a post-COVID world, the story follows Phoebe as she struggles to make friends while battling her germaphobia. Our poor girl developed the phobia after infecting her younger brother with Covid-19 and nearly losing him as a result. The book revolves around her, and her best friend Walter who also suffers from general anxiety disorder, and how the two of them help each other overcome their demons and have some semblance of a normal life.
The representation of mental health in this book was absolutely spot on. I loved how the writer handled such a delicate topic with nuance and sensitivity. She makes it very easy for the reader to not only sympathize with Phoebe and other characters with mental health issues, but she also makes you empathize with them and helps you see the world from their perspective.
I loved the fact that she does not show any one-size-fits-all solution, and I loved how the romance in the story does not take the spotlight away from the main story, which is Phoebe's personal struggle with her phobia. I will admit, that when I first picked up this book, I was a bit concerned that the love interest will be a typical knight in shining armor who magically cures our protagonist's mental health issues, but that was not the case at all.
Far from it, the love interest is simply one of the sweetest fictional characters I have ever had a crush on who supports Phoebe and gives her the motivation to continue to work on overcoming her fears. He shows Phoebe, and the readers by extension, that there is no shame in needing special accommodations. He shows her that her anxiety does not make her a burden because when we love someone, we always make compromises for them without a second thought.
Another thing that I really loved about this book was the family dynamics. In many young adult books, we barely see the family being actually present in our protagonist's life. But in Phoebe's life, her family plays a big, active role, which was both realistic and sweet to see because we were able to see how Phoebe's anxiety disorder affects them all as a unit.
I loved how supportive her parents were, and at the same time, I noticed their subtle but obvious willingness to put Phoebe's life on hold if it meant keeping their other child safe. It is unfair, yes, but parents are not perfect and it was nice to see the author acknowledging that.
The bond between Phoebe and her brother was also just too sweet, and it broke my heart to see how her disorder would cause rifts between them occasionally.
And of course, the relationship between Phoebe and Walter is yet another highlight of this book. It seems unlikely that a 64-year-old man and a teenager can become best friends, but Amalie Jahn shows us anything is possible when two people show compassion and understanding towards each other.
This goes for all the supportive characters too; they were well-developed and played an active role in the plot and in helping Phoebe's overall character growth too.
My only issue with this book perhaps is that it is never clear what Phoebe's ethnicity is. The reason why I am even bringing it up is because the writer clearly states that the love interest is a person of color, Walter is Jewish...but when it comes to Phoebe, we can only guess that she is Asian based on the kind of food her mother is cooking. I felt like this was a huge missed opportunity to clearly show some Asian representation. Especially because the writer specifically showed us that they normally eat Asian food for dinner, so it really did not make sense to me why she did not make Phoebe's race clearer.
All in all, this book is a MUST READ you guys, especially if you want a lovely, hopeful story about healing and recovery. The ending was very realistic, and it will leave you with warm fuzzy feelings and the hope that things can get better, if you keep on trying to overcome your demons.
March 30, 2021
This arc was provided by the publisher vía Netgalley in change of an honest review.
Let me first say W O W.. I mean, this is the second book/novel that i got from Netgalley, and I can say that they were both GREAT. But this one.. this one was EVEN MORE GREAT and I already think this is going to be on my favourites of the year. I think I wont forget Phoebe and the guys assap, they will be a while in my heart and mind. I finished it today and it was so amazing that I already miss them, thats why it took me more time to finish it too, bc I was afraid of letting them go :(
So, it was a pleassure and for that I really really thank Netgalley and the publisher for giving me the opotunity of reading this amazing book. It was so great and important that I feel like Im blabbering but bear with me a little.
This story is setting on a word post pandemic, the world back to normal (god I miss that like you wouldn't imagine). And it was such a fresh air to read about it, bc of the longing of that. And what I been wondering for a while, even before reading Phoebe: unfired, was: what will be the world like after all this disaster? How Im going to feel and live after this? Will I be able to go back to normal right away or what? So, reading about it, and on the perspective of our girl, felt very accurated. I could relate with her in so many things, I mean, I dont have that kind of anxiety but I have anxiety as well, and it makes me uneasy to know how the future will be and if I'll be able to feel alright and normal again. No worrying about dust, deseases and germs and infecting my family or touching superfices.
So for that I can relate so much, I wish I could, like her, get better.
This is a very important book, everyone should read it, I think is going to help a lot, and for those who doesn't need it so bad, I think you will be enjoying it the same. I hope it'll have the reception that it deserves. Honestly, because I feel like if I hadn't read it here I probable wouldn't be able to get to know it so my job from now on will be to get EVERYONE to know and read this book.
Thats it, thank you again!
Let me first say W O W.. I mean, this is the second book/novel that i got from Netgalley, and I can say that they were both GREAT. But this one.. this one was EVEN MORE GREAT and I already think this is going to be on my favourites of the year. I think I wont forget Phoebe and the guys assap, they will be a while in my heart and mind. I finished it today and it was so amazing that I already miss them, thats why it took me more time to finish it too, bc I was afraid of letting them go :(
So, it was a pleassure and for that I really really thank Netgalley and the publisher for giving me the opotunity of reading this amazing book. It was so great and important that I feel like Im blabbering but bear with me a little.
This story is setting on a word post pandemic, the world back to normal (god I miss that like you wouldn't imagine). And it was such a fresh air to read about it, bc of the longing of that. And what I been wondering for a while, even before reading Phoebe: unfired, was: what will be the world like after all this disaster? How Im going to feel and live after this? Will I be able to go back to normal right away or what? So, reading about it, and on the perspective of our girl, felt very accurated. I could relate with her in so many things, I mean, I dont have that kind of anxiety but I have anxiety as well, and it makes me uneasy to know how the future will be and if I'll be able to feel alright and normal again. No worrying about dust, deseases and germs and infecting my family or touching superfices.
So for that I can relate so much, I wish I could, like her, get better.
This is a very important book, everyone should read it, I think is going to help a lot, and for those who doesn't need it so bad, I think you will be enjoying it the same. I hope it'll have the reception that it deserves. Honestly, because I feel like if I hadn't read it here I probable wouldn't be able to get to know it so my job from now on will be to get EVERYONE to know and read this book.
Thats it, thank you again!
February 17, 2021
Authentic anxiety representation, combined with excellent character development, make Phoebe Unfired the book that every teen needs to read during and after Covid.
A heartfelt and beautiful story about a teenage girl who suffers from anxiety after accidentally giving Covid to her medically frail brother. Since then, Phoebe can’t touch anybody and is obsessed with avoiding germs. Her only hobby is pottery. Her best friend is a widowed bookseller who she works for. He encourages her to make a friend. She picks a handsome young man who plays the violin by the subway. But can she make and keep friends when her anxiety is overwhelming every part of her life?
The anxiety representation feels authentic and ultimately hopeful. Anxiety can’t be “fixed” in a day or by a certain person, but through therapy and love people can learn how to live with their phobias.
Like a piece of clay, Phoebe is being shaped by her past, her new friends, and her anxiety. She must decide when she’s ready to go into the fire.
A heartfelt and beautiful story about a teenage girl who suffers from anxiety after accidentally giving Covid to her medically frail brother. Since then, Phoebe can’t touch anybody and is obsessed with avoiding germs. Her only hobby is pottery. Her best friend is a widowed bookseller who she works for. He encourages her to make a friend. She picks a handsome young man who plays the violin by the subway. But can she make and keep friends when her anxiety is overwhelming every part of her life?
The anxiety representation feels authentic and ultimately hopeful. Anxiety can’t be “fixed” in a day or by a certain person, but through therapy and love people can learn how to live with their phobias.
Like a piece of clay, Phoebe is being shaped by her past, her new friends, and her anxiety. She must decide when she’s ready to go into the fire.
May 12, 2021
A big thank you to NetGalley for an arc in exchange for my honest opinion.
Phoebe Unfired is a wholesome book about a young girl who has a special kind of anxiety, germaphobia. After infecting her brother, whose lungs have not fully developed, Phoebe turns to herself and her Purell. She won't touch anyone and is highly afraid of germs. She has a part-time job at a book store. Her boss, sixty year old Walter also has anxiety and they help each other through life.
This book talks about mental health in a very positive way. It shows that not all people are the same, and that anxiety is not the same for everyone. It really gives insight in how Phoebe feels, and what she does to feel better.
The friendship in this book is great too. Phoebe and Walter have a wonderful relationship, they know each other in and out, and they know exactly how to help each other.
All in all, I really liked this book. I already recommended it with my sister who is also dealing with anxiety.
4,5 out of 5 stars.
Phoebe Unfired is a wholesome book about a young girl who has a special kind of anxiety, germaphobia. After infecting her brother, whose lungs have not fully developed, Phoebe turns to herself and her Purell. She won't touch anyone and is highly afraid of germs. She has a part-time job at a book store. Her boss, sixty year old Walter also has anxiety and they help each other through life.
This book talks about mental health in a very positive way. It shows that not all people are the same, and that anxiety is not the same for everyone. It really gives insight in how Phoebe feels, and what she does to feel better.
The friendship in this book is great too. Phoebe and Walter have a wonderful relationship, they know each other in and out, and they know exactly how to help each other.
All in all, I really liked this book. I already recommended it with my sister who is also dealing with anxiety.
4,5 out of 5 stars.
Read
May 13, 2021Hi! This book was Read Now on NetGalley, so I knew I needed to read it. The book was free for an honest review, but this doesn’t affect my opinions outlined in this review.
Info
Title: Phoebe Unfired
Author: Amalie Jahn
Expected Publication: June 15th, 2021 by Bermlord
Edition read: Digital E-ARC
Add to Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
Rating: 5 stars (*****)
Characters
The characters in the book were so much fun to read about, so I knew I needed to give them a star in my review. Phoebe was the kind of character who didn’t have many friends until she met JP in the subway, and then he introduced her to other friends. Seeing Phoebe grow as she learned more about herself and how she interacted with her friends was lovely. This was also a group of friends that helped each other, and they were all there when someone needed something. The novel is also filled with lovely supporting characters like Toby, Phoebe’s brother, who Phoebe just wants to protect. Walter, Phoebe’s boss at Dust Jackets, was also a fantastic character. Even though this novel was under 300 pages, you still go on a journey with these characters, and they all learn about themselves and each other as the story progresses.
Plot
This story has a straightforward plot where you follow Phoebe around and learn about her life. Despite how simple the plot was, it was also a beautiful one, and I wanted to make sure to give a star in my rating. The plot is something that can make or break a story for me. I might love the characters, but I’m not going to call a book 5 stars or a favorite if I don’t love the story and the characters' journeys. Anxiety also has a lot to do with the plot, because Phoebe has anxiety, and she doesn’t like germs, because she wants to protect her brother, who has health issues because of being born prematurely. This was the first book I had read with this element, and I loved seeing how Phoebe lived her life as the story progressed. Friendship also played a big role in the plot, and it was lovely seeing Phoebe interact with both her friends from JP and Walter. Phoebe Unfired was a sweet story about growth and finding who you are, which I just adored.
Setting
Phoebe went to a pottery class in New York City, and she worked in New York City. New York City is one of my favorite settings in books, and I fell in love with how Amalie Jahn presented New York City in this book. I don’t see many books that use the subway, or transit systems as part of the setting, so this was such an interesting book to read because of how much the subway played a role in the setting. New York City as a setting was why I added this as a star in my review.
Writing
The writing in this novel was excellent. Amalie Jahan has a simple yet beautiful style that takes on a journey with these characters. Anyone who enjoys the YA style of writing, whether you’re a teenager or an adult, will enjoy this story because of the writing I believe. From the start, I knew that I would add a star in my review for the writing.
Enjoyment
Enjoyment is a star that I loved adding to books because I believe it should be a factor in your reviews. I loved this book, and I had a delightful time reading it.
Info
Title: Phoebe Unfired
Author: Amalie Jahn
Expected Publication: June 15th, 2021 by Bermlord
Edition read: Digital E-ARC
Add to Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
Rating: 5 stars (*****)
Characters
The characters in the book were so much fun to read about, so I knew I needed to give them a star in my review. Phoebe was the kind of character who didn’t have many friends until she met JP in the subway, and then he introduced her to other friends. Seeing Phoebe grow as she learned more about herself and how she interacted with her friends was lovely. This was also a group of friends that helped each other, and they were all there when someone needed something. The novel is also filled with lovely supporting characters like Toby, Phoebe’s brother, who Phoebe just wants to protect. Walter, Phoebe’s boss at Dust Jackets, was also a fantastic character. Even though this novel was under 300 pages, you still go on a journey with these characters, and they all learn about themselves and each other as the story progresses.
Plot
This story has a straightforward plot where you follow Phoebe around and learn about her life. Despite how simple the plot was, it was also a beautiful one, and I wanted to make sure to give a star in my rating. The plot is something that can make or break a story for me. I might love the characters, but I’m not going to call a book 5 stars or a favorite if I don’t love the story and the characters' journeys. Anxiety also has a lot to do with the plot, because Phoebe has anxiety, and she doesn’t like germs, because she wants to protect her brother, who has health issues because of being born prematurely. This was the first book I had read with this element, and I loved seeing how Phoebe lived her life as the story progressed. Friendship also played a big role in the plot, and it was lovely seeing Phoebe interact with both her friends from JP and Walter. Phoebe Unfired was a sweet story about growth and finding who you are, which I just adored.
Setting
Phoebe went to a pottery class in New York City, and she worked in New York City. New York City is one of my favorite settings in books, and I fell in love with how Amalie Jahn presented New York City in this book. I don’t see many books that use the subway, or transit systems as part of the setting, so this was such an interesting book to read because of how much the subway played a role in the setting. New York City as a setting was why I added this as a star in my review.
Writing
The writing in this novel was excellent. Amalie Jahan has a simple yet beautiful style that takes on a journey with these characters. Anyone who enjoys the YA style of writing, whether you’re a teenager or an adult, will enjoy this story because of the writing I believe. From the start, I knew that I would add a star in my review for the writing.
Enjoyment
Enjoyment is a star that I loved adding to books because I believe it should be a factor in your reviews. I loved this book, and I had a delightful time reading it.
October 19, 2021
We all faced the pandemic, lockdown, and survived/lived through it the best we could. Some countries are opening up and already have most of their population vaccinated, while others are still struggling with the virus. We've all had at least one person near to us (be it family or friend) that was touched by Covid. We all know some got better and could go on with their lives, while others bore the sequelae of this sickness for far longer. For some, those were physical. But what about the ones that affected people's mental health more? We all dreamt about getting "back to normal", but what if "normal" isn't possible for someone anymore?
In the not-so-distant future, that's Phoebe's story. A teenage girl who, despite her best intentions and precautions, got Covid as a kid and, as the virus works, transmitted it to her preemie brother. He now bores the physical consequences of it (though he's trying to live life to the fullest he can), but ever since, Phoebe's decided to play it safe. Live by the rules. And one of them? Avoid touching anyone on purpose. Yes, she's seen many therapists and tried many methods, but none are helping her with the isolation brought on by her germophobia. Thus, when Walter, her boss at the bookstore, recommends a new therapy book, and she meets the enigmatic JP, it will lead her on the path to get back the relationships that her anxiety has kept away from her for far too long.
This was a touching story, full of "pull at your heartstrings" material. The author did a fantastic job portraying the world through a teenager's eyes, her longing to belong with her family, as well as feel some normalcy in her life. I really liked the friendships that came along the way of her experiment (as well as the possibility of more), and how, despite the best-laid plans, the path definitely had its bumps, but she always had people supporting her and cheering her on this journey called life. Also, the author fairly transports her readers to the NY locations of this book (streets, subway, restaurants, and even Central Park). However, it also includes content (see below) that I wasn't particularly fond of.
Overall, a "food for thought" kind of story, with characters that will make you wonder about them whenever you put the book down in between reads. This is a book that deals beautifully with the topics of mental health and teenagers in a believable way, and that leaves you with hope for the future.
Many thanks to Netgalley and the author/publisher for granting an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given voluntarily.
Content:
Language: they're teenagers, so several uses of "d**n", as well as "Oh God". Some jokes/lines have double-entendre.
Sex: none, but it's left as an option for the (far, far) future.
Other: gay characters (a couple of men passing on the subway, one of her previous therapists that relocated with her wife to another city, a couple of female customers at the bookstore, and one of JP's bandmates).
In the not-so-distant future, that's Phoebe's story. A teenage girl who, despite her best intentions and precautions, got Covid as a kid and, as the virus works, transmitted it to her preemie brother. He now bores the physical consequences of it (though he's trying to live life to the fullest he can), but ever since, Phoebe's decided to play it safe. Live by the rules. And one of them? Avoid touching anyone on purpose. Yes, she's seen many therapists and tried many methods, but none are helping her with the isolation brought on by her germophobia. Thus, when Walter, her boss at the bookstore, recommends a new therapy book, and she meets the enigmatic JP, it will lead her on the path to get back the relationships that her anxiety has kept away from her for far too long.
This was a touching story, full of "pull at your heartstrings" material. The author did a fantastic job portraying the world through a teenager's eyes, her longing to belong with her family, as well as feel some normalcy in her life. I really liked the friendships that came along the way of her experiment (as well as the possibility of more), and how, despite the best-laid plans, the path definitely had its bumps, but she always had people supporting her and cheering her on this journey called life. Also, the author fairly transports her readers to the NY locations of this book (streets, subway, restaurants, and even Central Park). However, it also includes content (see below) that I wasn't particularly fond of.
Overall, a "food for thought" kind of story, with characters that will make you wonder about them whenever you put the book down in between reads. This is a book that deals beautifully with the topics of mental health and teenagers in a believable way, and that leaves you with hope for the future.
Many thanks to Netgalley and the author/publisher for granting an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given voluntarily.
Content:
Language: they're teenagers, so several uses of "d**n", as well as "Oh God". Some jokes/lines have double-entendre.
Sex: none, but it's left as an option for the (far, far) future.
Other: gay characters (a couple of men passing on the subway, one of her previous therapists that relocated with her wife to another city, a couple of female customers at the bookstore, and one of JP's bandmates).
March 20, 2022
4.5/5 stars. As someone who has developed health anxiety during and because of the pandemic, I'm so thankful this book exists. There are times where it's difficult to explain just how terrifying seemingly minor things can be, and Amalie Jahn knocked it out of the park with Phoebe's germaphobia. The book works as both an introduction to different anxiety disorders and a relatable narrative for those of us who deal with them constantly - a little too relatable at times, at least for me. (I may have teared up a couple of times while reading).
What I'm most impressed with is that Phoebe's germaphobia had layers to it, much like my OCD has. OCD themes are surface-level worries that carry much deeper core fears, commonly centered around self-criticism and self-blame. Underneath my own fears of having a terminal illness or never having certainty about my sexual orientation, there are several worries that stay constant: I'm not a good person; I don't deserve to be happy; everything is my fault. Phoebe's terrified of getting sick, of course, but looking deeper than that, it's because she wants to keep her younger brother Toby from becoming seriously ill again. The last time he was hospitalized, it was because he'd gotten Covid from her, despite her best efforts to quarantine, and seeing her parents in turmoil was more than enough for her to decide to shut everyone out. Isolation and never touching anyone means there's no risk of hurting anyone, and there's no chance that they can get close enough to decide she's not worth being around. Phoebe's life is lonely, but the fear of being a burden to those around her is enough to keep up with her rituals of wearing gloves and having hand sanitizer on her at all times.
Her relationships with JP and his friends were incredibly sweet, and I loved that JP wasn't a perfect friend/potential love interest, not by a long shot. He struggles with her anxiety and doesn't always understand her, especially when she keeps pushing him away and insisting he's pitying her and doesn't actually want to be friends. But he still makes the effort, as do the majority of his friends, to let Phoebe feel somewhat normal when they hang out, because they know she's worth it and that she deserves to be happy. JP even does some research into how to accommodate for Phoebe and how to help her when she's triggered, and that is the sign of a boy worth keeping around, for friendship or for something more in the future.
Phoebe having unofficial therapeutic support from her friend Walter was also a great inclusion. We see everything from Phoebe's perspective and how hard she struggles, so it does seem like Walter improves over the course of the book when he finally starts dating a regular at the bookstore he and Phoebe work in. It's very easy to assume that love fixes things like this, but that's not the case for mental health, and while Phoebe knows this, it's all too easy for her to feel like Walter doesn't need her friendship anymore. But progress isn't linear, and Walter still needs that support from Phoebe, just like she needs it from him.
I honestly don't want to talk too much about this one because I honestly think it's better going in and reading with little to no knowledge of the details. It's a quick read, but it hits hard and it's open about mental health stigma and the difficulty of asking for help. It's a good reminder for me and anyone else who shares Phoebe's core fears that no matter what, there will always be support, and there will always be someone willing to give it.
What I'm most impressed with is that Phoebe's germaphobia had layers to it, much like my OCD has. OCD themes are surface-level worries that carry much deeper core fears, commonly centered around self-criticism and self-blame. Underneath my own fears of having a terminal illness or never having certainty about my sexual orientation, there are several worries that stay constant: I'm not a good person; I don't deserve to be happy; everything is my fault. Phoebe's terrified of getting sick, of course, but looking deeper than that, it's because she wants to keep her younger brother Toby from becoming seriously ill again. The last time he was hospitalized, it was because he'd gotten Covid from her, despite her best efforts to quarantine, and seeing her parents in turmoil was more than enough for her to decide to shut everyone out. Isolation and never touching anyone means there's no risk of hurting anyone, and there's no chance that they can get close enough to decide she's not worth being around. Phoebe's life is lonely, but the fear of being a burden to those around her is enough to keep up with her rituals of wearing gloves and having hand sanitizer on her at all times.
Her relationships with JP and his friends were incredibly sweet, and I loved that JP wasn't a perfect friend/potential love interest, not by a long shot. He struggles with her anxiety and doesn't always understand her, especially when she keeps pushing him away and insisting he's pitying her and doesn't actually want to be friends. But he still makes the effort, as do the majority of his friends, to let Phoebe feel somewhat normal when they hang out, because they know she's worth it and that she deserves to be happy. JP even does some research into how to accommodate for Phoebe and how to help her when she's triggered, and that is the sign of a boy worth keeping around, for friendship or for something more in the future.
Phoebe having unofficial therapeutic support from her friend Walter was also a great inclusion. We see everything from Phoebe's perspective and how hard she struggles, so it does seem like Walter improves over the course of the book when he finally starts dating a regular at the bookstore he and Phoebe work in. It's very easy to assume that love fixes things like this, but that's not the case for mental health, and while Phoebe knows this, it's all too easy for her to feel like Walter doesn't need her friendship anymore. But progress isn't linear, and Walter still needs that support from Phoebe, just like she needs it from him.
I honestly don't want to talk too much about this one because I honestly think it's better going in and reading with little to no knowledge of the details. It's a quick read, but it hits hard and it's open about mental health stigma and the difficulty of asking for help. It's a good reminder for me and anyone else who shares Phoebe's core fears that no matter what, there will always be support, and there will always be someone willing to give it.
April 18, 2021
Thank you NetGalley for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book is super cute!
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
Rating: ★★★
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
Phoebe Unfired is set post-Corona virus. Phoebe developed a phobia of germs ever since she got COVID and infected her younger brother who had weak lungs which almost resulted with him dying. Today, Phoebe tries her best to keep herself clean and free of germs in fear that she would bring another sickness in the house. However, this also meant that she's struggling to make friends. Her only companion is the bookseller who is her boss and is suffering from anxiety disorder. Together, they encourage and support each other and they come up with a plan for Phoebe to make friends.
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
This book is very easy to read with lots of representations. I like how mental health is portrayed here. We really get down to the nitty-gritty of Phoebe's thoughts and emotions in different circumstances. While Phoebe's goal of keeping her brother safe and healthy, it also truly heartbreaking to realize how much a family member can go and go through to ensure that they would not bring damage.
Reading this book also made me miss pre-COVID world. It's thought-provoking in a way that you would realize how much you took things for granted before and think about if the world is really going to go back to the way it was. This book is also cute with a violinist love interest. JP is a great character and he understood Phoebe well.
One of the critiques that I would give this book is that when I first started this book, I truly hoped that it would not be about a romance possibility that would push her to help herself change. Perhaps she would make a friend in class first? Her growth is very gradual and believable.
Another critique would be, the writing is direct to the point. I only wish that there had been more color to it.
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
In sum:
This is an important read to have in this crucial time of the pandemic. It creates awareness of what other people go through during this unfortunate time. We have to be conscious of what we feel and what the people around us feel as well and that we have to gain more understanding with people that have mental and health issues. I recommend this book to everyone, specifically for YA readers and people who like direct to the point storytelling.
This book is super cute!
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
Rating: ★★★
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
Phoebe Unfired is set post-Corona virus. Phoebe developed a phobia of germs ever since she got COVID and infected her younger brother who had weak lungs which almost resulted with him dying. Today, Phoebe tries her best to keep herself clean and free of germs in fear that she would bring another sickness in the house. However, this also meant that she's struggling to make friends. Her only companion is the bookseller who is her boss and is suffering from anxiety disorder. Together, they encourage and support each other and they come up with a plan for Phoebe to make friends.
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
This book is very easy to read with lots of representations. I like how mental health is portrayed here. We really get down to the nitty-gritty of Phoebe's thoughts and emotions in different circumstances. While Phoebe's goal of keeping her brother safe and healthy, it also truly heartbreaking to realize how much a family member can go and go through to ensure that they would not bring damage.
Reading this book also made me miss pre-COVID world. It's thought-provoking in a way that you would realize how much you took things for granted before and think about if the world is really going to go back to the way it was. This book is also cute with a violinist love interest. JP is a great character and he understood Phoebe well.
One of the critiques that I would give this book is that when I first started this book, I truly hoped that it would not be about a romance possibility that would push her to help herself change. Perhaps she would make a friend in class first? Her growth is very gradual and believable.
Another critique would be, the writing is direct to the point. I only wish that there had been more color to it.
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
In sum:
This is an important read to have in this crucial time of the pandemic. It creates awareness of what other people go through during this unfortunate time. We have to be conscious of what we feel and what the people around us feel as well and that we have to gain more understanding with people that have mental and health issues. I recommend this book to everyone, specifically for YA readers and people who like direct to the point storytelling.
April 15, 2021
Phoebe Unfired is an important look into mental health and being germ-conscious and is more poignant than ever as we live through the COVID-19 pandemic. I didn’t have high hopes for this book as I thought it would be hinged on characters wearing masks and staying isolated, but in actuality, this story was captivating so much so that I read it in just a few hours!
I appreciate the straightforward storytelling and language that Amalie Jahn uses. Rather than getting involved with fussy details, almost all of the characters are left up to the reader’s imagination. She often describes the settings and sounds with much more detail, which symbolizes the cacophony of Phoebe’s specific anxiety disorder and the thoughts and warnings always emblazoned in her ears and in her mind.
This novel takes place two years after the pandemic, and while life seems to be back to the pre-pandemic normal, the ramifications of contracting and passing along illnesses hinder Phoebe from living life on her terms. She sees germs everywhere and hasn’t touched another person in two years because she accidentally infected her at-risk brother with coronavirus. He struggles with lung issues and Phoebe feels immense guilt. Her only escapes are at her pottery classes, where the touch of clay is as close as she’ll get to human contact and her job with a Jewish widower who deals with his own anxieties. The two come up with a plan for Phoebe to overcome her germaphobic nature and make friends, and when she- quite literally- bumps into a stranger in the subway, she learns more about herself and her mental struggles than she imagined after years of therapy.
Everyone should definitely read Phoebe Unfired! As we begin moving into wide-spread vaccination efforts around the world, being aware of our own and other people’s fears, anxieties, and health issues is important, and this novel brings to light those topics with an honest look at what it’s like to live with anxiety through the unknowns of a pandemic.
I appreciate the straightforward storytelling and language that Amalie Jahn uses. Rather than getting involved with fussy details, almost all of the characters are left up to the reader’s imagination. She often describes the settings and sounds with much more detail, which symbolizes the cacophony of Phoebe’s specific anxiety disorder and the thoughts and warnings always emblazoned in her ears and in her mind.
This novel takes place two years after the pandemic, and while life seems to be back to the pre-pandemic normal, the ramifications of contracting and passing along illnesses hinder Phoebe from living life on her terms. She sees germs everywhere and hasn’t touched another person in two years because she accidentally infected her at-risk brother with coronavirus. He struggles with lung issues and Phoebe feels immense guilt. Her only escapes are at her pottery classes, where the touch of clay is as close as she’ll get to human contact and her job with a Jewish widower who deals with his own anxieties. The two come up with a plan for Phoebe to overcome her germaphobic nature and make friends, and when she- quite literally- bumps into a stranger in the subway, she learns more about herself and her mental struggles than she imagined after years of therapy.
Everyone should definitely read Phoebe Unfired! As we begin moving into wide-spread vaccination efforts around the world, being aware of our own and other people’s fears, anxieties, and health issues is important, and this novel brings to light those topics with an honest look at what it’s like to live with anxiety through the unknowns of a pandemic.
June 19, 2021
Phoebe Unfired follows our female heroine Phoebe who has suffered trauma after she got Covid and infected her fragile brother Toby to near death, and because of that incident, she became germophobic.
TW: mental health issues
I honestly don’t know what to say anything about this book. This book talks about the virus which has destroyed so many lives today which is the COVID virus and is still spreading throughout the whole world or universe. This is my first encounter to have read such an important matter or subject which is relevant today because this book not just talks about the virus but mental health as well.
The entirety of this book? IT. WAS, REALLY. GOOD. GREAT! *CHEF’S KISS*
Even though I am not in the position to say this or I have no right to say this but the mental health portrayed here was really great and heartbreaking and the process of battling it was heartwarming. Reading this was a bunch mixture of heartbreaking, sad, happy, heartwarming, delightful, and sincere. I felt the heroine’s emotions and her character. I absolutely love Phoebe and her friends as well. They are very helpful and considerate to Phoebe’s defects/issues especially Walter and JP. They’re for keeps! The bond from family and friends was admirable, sweet, and adorable to bits.
Everyone should read this book. This book is very important and shouldn’t be missed! It’s an eye-opener, a hopeful heartwarming, light but full of substance story! I cannot recommend this enough!
Rating: 4.5/5 stars!
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the eARC!
TW: mental health issues
I honestly don’t know what to say anything about this book. This book talks about the virus which has destroyed so many lives today which is the COVID virus and is still spreading throughout the whole world or universe. This is my first encounter to have read such an important matter or subject which is relevant today because this book not just talks about the virus but mental health as well.
The entirety of this book? IT. WAS, REALLY. GOOD. GREAT! *CHEF’S KISS*
Even though I am not in the position to say this or I have no right to say this but the mental health portrayed here was really great and heartbreaking and the process of battling it was heartwarming. Reading this was a bunch mixture of heartbreaking, sad, happy, heartwarming, delightful, and sincere. I felt the heroine’s emotions and her character. I absolutely love Phoebe and her friends as well. They are very helpful and considerate to Phoebe’s defects/issues especially Walter and JP. They’re for keeps! The bond from family and friends was admirable, sweet, and adorable to bits.
Everyone should read this book. This book is very important and shouldn’t be missed! It’s an eye-opener, a hopeful heartwarming, light but full of substance story! I cannot recommend this enough!
Rating: 4.5/5 stars!
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the eARC!
March 30, 2021
➢ Pub date: June 15th 2021
➢ Rating: ★★★★★/5
*𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠 𝙮𝙤𝙪, 𝙣𝙚𝙩𝙜𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙮 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙣 𝘼𝙍𝘾*
When I read the synopsis I came to know that this book is written with reference to Covid and I had to read this. And I was surprised to see that it was well written and the mental health rep in this book is done very well. It was an emotional read for me because me being a premature twin born at 6 months I know what my parents went through, the emotions, anxiety, tension everything. Will we make it out live? It was hell for them, every night my mom used to cry and pray for our health. So this book hit personally for them.
This is a beautiful story of a young girl Phoebe who accidently transmitted COVID to her medically ill brother. And now she has decided to avoid situations and unnecessary contact with people that might put her and her brother in danger, she decided to be a germaphobe. I really felt her guilt that was eating her alive and her anxiousness, fear of what will happen to her baby brother. Her only solace is a sixty-year old widower, who is determined to help her out with the anxiety. I loved how their friendship bloomed and her love for poetry. Phoebe is a character who you can't help but fall in love with. Will her anxiety cost her friendship? will she be able to bounce back as her cheery self?
This was such a great, refreshing read that had so much depth and meaning! This is a must read book.
➢ Rating: ★★★★★/5
*𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠 𝙮𝙤𝙪, 𝙣𝙚𝙩𝙜𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙮 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙣 𝘼𝙍𝘾*
When I read the synopsis I came to know that this book is written with reference to Covid and I had to read this. And I was surprised to see that it was well written and the mental health rep in this book is done very well. It was an emotional read for me because me being a premature twin born at 6 months I know what my parents went through, the emotions, anxiety, tension everything. Will we make it out live? It was hell for them, every night my mom used to cry and pray for our health. So this book hit personally for them.
This is a beautiful story of a young girl Phoebe who accidently transmitted COVID to her medically ill brother. And now she has decided to avoid situations and unnecessary contact with people that might put her and her brother in danger, she decided to be a germaphobe. I really felt her guilt that was eating her alive and her anxiousness, fear of what will happen to her baby brother. Her only solace is a sixty-year old widower, who is determined to help her out with the anxiety. I loved how their friendship bloomed and her love for poetry. Phoebe is a character who you can't help but fall in love with. Will her anxiety cost her friendship? will she be able to bounce back as her cheery self?
This was such a great, refreshing read that had so much depth and meaning! This is a must read book.
June 28, 2021
3.5
Thank you to Netgally and the publisher for providing me with a arc in exchange for an honest review.
Overall I think the writing and pacing of this story were good but for some reason I was finding it a bit difficult to pick up the book again once I put it down. I just wasn't sucked in. On the other hand, that kind of makes sense-This is not an action packed book and it is not pretending to be.
Even though most of us did not have the same reaction to the pandemic as Phoebe, I think this book can really resonate with a lot of people. Many of us are finding it hard to adjust to "life going back to normal" or even being in a crowded room.
I really enjoyed how the author portrayed the importance of allowing people around you help you when you are in need. Climbing a mountain is always easier with a buddy. Letting people in and getting help from them does not make you weak, it makes you loved.
The depictions of anxiety, germaphobia, agoraphobia were handled really well and so was Pheobe's progress in trying to overcome her anxiety and germaphobia. There were a few times where it felt like everything was a bit too smooth sailing but overall her character development felt genuine and relatable. That being said, I am hesitant to recommend this book to people who are currently battling these issues or similar ones. The depictions of Phoebe's struggles would probably be triggering or at very least very challenging to read, to someone who is facing similar issues.
Thank you to Netgally and the publisher for providing me with a arc in exchange for an honest review.
Overall I think the writing and pacing of this story were good but for some reason I was finding it a bit difficult to pick up the book again once I put it down. I just wasn't sucked in. On the other hand, that kind of makes sense-This is not an action packed book and it is not pretending to be.
Even though most of us did not have the same reaction to the pandemic as Phoebe, I think this book can really resonate with a lot of people. Many of us are finding it hard to adjust to "life going back to normal" or even being in a crowded room.
I really enjoyed how the author portrayed the importance of allowing people around you help you when you are in need. Climbing a mountain is always easier with a buddy. Letting people in and getting help from them does not make you weak, it makes you loved.
The depictions of anxiety, germaphobia, agoraphobia were handled really well and so was Pheobe's progress in trying to overcome her anxiety and germaphobia. There were a few times where it felt like everything was a bit too smooth sailing but overall her character development felt genuine and relatable. That being said, I am hesitant to recommend this book to people who are currently battling these issues or similar ones. The depictions of Phoebe's struggles would probably be triggering or at very least very challenging to read, to someone who is facing similar issues.
April 23, 2025
i really really enjoyed this book! all the characters, especially phoebe, were extremely likeable and relatable (especially since i also have germaphobia, although not as badly as phoebe). i found the love story really realistic and i like how it wasn't rushed, and i really found myself getting butterflies at the end and im not even a romance person. romance often makes me cringe but i really liked the build up in this book. i just really wished they had kissed at the end but i really liked what happened instead!!!
i thought the characters were all very realistic and i liked how phoebes female friends helped her out and weren't bitchy or jealous or in some sort of weird love triangle. i also liked how JP didn't magically cure phoebe's germaphobia and i loved how he kind of put her in her place when she wanted him to come to the hospital with her. tough love was needed!
i also LOVED how the first person phoebe made physical contact with again was her little brother and not JP. i really grew to love toby by the end and i don't usually like kid characters much in books.
i also kept thinking walter was going to die by the end of the novel and i'm glad he didn't! i feel like that would've been too predictable.
phoebes family were super realistic, too - the sort of cold, overworrying mother, the passive but well meaning father, the annoying little brother... it was a relatable and well written family dynamic and toby's autoimmune (?) issues were a really unique and interesting story point.
i always wondered if when authors started mentioning covid in their work, would it be cringey or too dramatic or just unpleasant to read? but amalie does a great job of writing about the pandemic in a palatable but still realistic way.
the only real issue i had with this book was that i found the grammar a bit off at times, with some questions not being followed up with question marks and a few rules of speech marks and dialogue being strange? but this might just be a difference in american grammar.....
i really enjoyed this and the resolution was so heart warming and feel good!
i thought the characters were all very realistic and i liked how phoebes female friends helped her out and weren't bitchy or jealous or in some sort of weird love triangle. i also liked how JP didn't magically cure phoebe's germaphobia and i loved how he kind of put her in her place when she wanted him to come to the hospital with her. tough love was needed!
i also LOVED how the first person phoebe made physical contact with again was her little brother and not JP. i really grew to love toby by the end and i don't usually like kid characters much in books.
i also kept thinking walter was going to die by the end of the novel and i'm glad he didn't! i feel like that would've been too predictable.
phoebes family were super realistic, too - the sort of cold, overworrying mother, the passive but well meaning father, the annoying little brother... it was a relatable and well written family dynamic and toby's autoimmune (?) issues were a really unique and interesting story point.
i always wondered if when authors started mentioning covid in their work, would it be cringey or too dramatic or just unpleasant to read? but amalie does a great job of writing about the pandemic in a palatable but still realistic way.
the only real issue i had with this book was that i found the grammar a bit off at times, with some questions not being followed up with question marks and a few rules of speech marks and dialogue being strange? but this might just be a difference in american grammar.....
i really enjoyed this and the resolution was so heart warming and feel good!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 20, 2021
What a fantastic and important read. This book talks about mental health in a positive way, and shines a light on how others can help those around them.
This is the first book I’ve read that’s dealt with COVID, and I think it was handled well. Phoebe is a germaphobe with an immune compromised little brother. So when she gets COVID, and share it with him, she decides never to touch anything or anyone. Whew. I can’t even imagine, and reading all she does to protect herself is heartbreaking.
Phoebe works with Walter, a 60 something who also suffers from anxiety and they form quite the friendship and serve as each other’s therapist. Then Phoebe meets JP and boy-oh-boy did he capture my heart. The more he learned of Phoebe’s fears, the more he wanted to help. He and his friends were the best and I loved watching them react to Phoebe and how Phoebe reacted in response.
This book was written so well, and did a fantastic job of addressing mental health - I’ll be singing it’s praises and recommending to everyone young and old!
A big thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy of this book!
This is the first book I’ve read that’s dealt with COVID, and I think it was handled well. Phoebe is a germaphobe with an immune compromised little brother. So when she gets COVID, and share it with him, she decides never to touch anything or anyone. Whew. I can’t even imagine, and reading all she does to protect herself is heartbreaking.
Phoebe works with Walter, a 60 something who also suffers from anxiety and they form quite the friendship and serve as each other’s therapist. Then Phoebe meets JP and boy-oh-boy did he capture my heart. The more he learned of Phoebe’s fears, the more he wanted to help. He and his friends were the best and I loved watching them react to Phoebe and how Phoebe reacted in response.
This book was written so well, and did a fantastic job of addressing mental health - I’ll be singing it’s praises and recommending to everyone young and old!
A big thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy of this book!
March 12, 2022
What a wonderful book! Phoebe is a germophobe, which makes her a young woman of my own heart. But Phoebe's case is intense, and something as (what seems) minor as holding hands, sends her into debilitating panic attacks. But when she meets a young man named JP, everything changes. Slowly, though, which is what makes this book so special. You see, this is not the kind of story that cheats and just throws our protagonist into a relationship, since real life isn't like that. Instead, we stay in Phoebe's head as she makes gradual, small achievements. By the end, you're totally rooting for any minor accomplishments Phoebe makes, which makes this such a lovely story. Check it out!
September 25, 2024
Phoebe, a 16 year old girl has become a prisoner of her own fear. After a traumatic incident involving her premature brother Toby, she has developed an extreme germophobia. Obsessed with cleanliness and avoidance, Phoebe isolates herself from the world, leading a life of meticulous routine.
This is a exploration of anxiety, isolation and power of friendship. Through Phoebe's perspective we delve into the complexities of living with a debilitating fear, offering a sensitive portrayal of mental health struggles faced by many people.
It is a testament to the transformative power of friendship and importance of reaching out for help when faced with overwhelming challenges.
This is a exploration of anxiety, isolation and power of friendship. Through Phoebe's perspective we delve into the complexities of living with a debilitating fear, offering a sensitive portrayal of mental health struggles faced by many people.
It is a testament to the transformative power of friendship and importance of reaching out for help when faced with overwhelming challenges.
April 19, 2021
During the coronavirus pandemic, Phoebe contracted the virus and passed it to her immuno-compromised little brother, Toby, forcing him to spend time in the ICU. Now, Phoebe is a sixteen-year-old germophobe who lives by her "HOW TO AVOID GERMS" list, consisting of rules like:
"5. Touching spreads Germs. Don't touch."
I really enjoyed Phoebe Unfired. As someone with pretty severe anxiety that has been extremely careful during the pandemic, the anxiety rep in this book felt so real and authentic. Phoebe's character is fantastically written and relatable; I was really rooting for her throughout the story. Also, it was so cool to see her experience with group therapy! I'm amazed that they were able to be so open.
However, I'm not a big fan of how all of Phoebe's progress was basically because of a guy. Romantic relationships do not fix all your problems. That being said, JP was really sweet and I appreciated how he did everything he could to help Phoebe. His entire friend group (barring Luke) was incredibly supportive and understanding, which was so nice.
Walter, though? He's the cutest and we all need a friend like him. He was the one person who never gave up on Phoebe. The way he encouraged her, allowing both of them to combat their anxiety together, was really meaningful. Could we get a sequel focused on him... ? Please?
Phoebe Unfired was a quick read with amazing anxiety and mental illness rep. I'd definitely recommend picking up a copy once it's released on June 15th of this year! You can also preorder here.
*I received an eARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!*
"5. Touching spreads Germs. Don't touch."
I really enjoyed Phoebe Unfired. As someone with pretty severe anxiety that has been extremely careful during the pandemic, the anxiety rep in this book felt so real and authentic. Phoebe's character is fantastically written and relatable; I was really rooting for her throughout the story. Also, it was so cool to see her experience with group therapy! I'm amazed that they were able to be so open.
However, I'm not a big fan of how all of Phoebe's progress was basically because of a guy. Romantic relationships do not fix all your problems. That being said, JP was really sweet and I appreciated how he did everything he could to help Phoebe. His entire friend group (barring Luke) was incredibly supportive and understanding, which was so nice.
Walter, though? He's the cutest and we all need a friend like him. He was the one person who never gave up on Phoebe. The way he encouraged her, allowing both of them to combat their anxiety together, was really meaningful. Could we get a sequel focused on him... ? Please?
Phoebe Unfired was a quick read with amazing anxiety and mental illness rep. I'd definitely recommend picking up a copy once it's released on June 15th of this year! You can also preorder here.
*I received an eARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!*
June 30, 2021
I read this book in one day because I could not put it down! It’s wholesome and sweet, and you grow to love the characters. I appreciated how the author handled mental illness and gave a window into the thoughts and feelings of teens and adults struggling with various mental illnesses. I feel like I gained a better understanding of what some people struggle with every day, and how to better support them. I liked how the author showed how we’re all shaped by our experiences, and if we take the time to learn about one another we can really enrich one another’s lives.
June 15, 2021
This one is set after 2 years of the pandemic. I really liked the characters here, especially JP. And the way it portrayed anxiety, mental health,phobia & the efforts to overcome those was definitely great too 💙
February 1, 2024
My review is heavily biased but I liked the character phoebe and found the story relatable as the book knows what it is and knows where the story is going
June 2, 2024
Definitely not my cup of tea🫤
February 28, 2025
If you have to spam a book then it's not a very good book.
July 13, 2025
The perfect book for people who still are feeling the weight of the Pandemic.
March 24, 2021
Thank you NetGalley for an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review
This entire book - *chef's kiss*
Phoebe wasn't always a germaphobe. Not until she contracted covid which put her prematurely born brother toby in danger. Thus, began her journey of pathogen avoidance. She meets a sixty-year-old Walter who is suffering from anxiety. They hit it off immediately and help each other serving as therapists.
I love how mental health is portrayed here. The lengths Phoebe had to go through is truly heartbreaking. But there is something positive about this, the whole way the topic is dealt with is wonderful. The author approaches it with such care and sensitivity and spins a positive outlook on mental health.
Special shoutout to JP - top-notch character.
This entire book - *chef's kiss*
Phoebe wasn't always a germaphobe. Not until she contracted covid which put her prematurely born brother toby in danger. Thus, began her journey of pathogen avoidance. She meets a sixty-year-old Walter who is suffering from anxiety. They hit it off immediately and help each other serving as therapists.
I love how mental health is portrayed here. The lengths Phoebe had to go through is truly heartbreaking. But there is something positive about this, the whole way the topic is dealt with is wonderful. The author approaches it with such care and sensitivity and spins a positive outlook on mental health.
Special shoutout to JP - top-notch character.
August 26, 2022
This is a compelling and authentic story of how a teen girl copes with her anxiety. It's very timely and relatable as it deals with germaphobia and mental health issues that are important to address and so prevalent. I love that this book allows readers a way to understand and offer support to those around them. It is heartfelt and honest with a main character who is easy to root for, and I highly recommend it!
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