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Something Spectacular
Isabelle Dizon was perfect. A straight A business course student, a sensible lady, a responsible daughter any parent would wished for. But she felt something lacking. She often felt she was living to her parents idea of what she should be, and she started to doubt if that was what she really wanted.
As her uncertainty and longing continued, she met a group of people from a poorly funded, nearly dissolved, university organization. A group of six university students who taught her the value of friendship, the courage that comes with pursuing her dreams, and the importance of living in the moment and creating Something Spectacular.
As her uncertainty and longing continued, she met a group of people from a poorly funded, nearly dissolved, university organization. A group of six university students who taught her the value of friendship, the courage that comes with pursuing her dreams, and the importance of living in the moment and creating Something Spectacular.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
October 28, 2025
2 STARS
This review is solely for the Wattpad version. I haven't read the published one.
I’m honestly devastated to give this a low rating, because those last few chapters were genuinely heartbreaking. But I’ve got to be honest—the rest of the story just really made me cringe.
I know the author’s intent. I know the topics and themes she wanted to convey. The potential is there, and I can see the passion and emotion behind the page. But as someone who has read countless stories and watched countless movies with this kind of plot, I’m no longer as easily swayed or invested in sad fics. It takes a lot more than just motivational or inspirational lines that appear randomly—even when they don’t fit the scene—and a sad ending to win me over.
This is not a bad book. Far from it, actually. But I do hope that the flaws of the Wattpad version are fixed and improved upon in the published one.
This review is solely for the Wattpad version. I haven't read the published one.
I’m honestly devastated to give this a low rating, because those last few chapters were genuinely heartbreaking. But I’ve got to be honest—the rest of the story just really made me cringe.
I know the author’s intent. I know the topics and themes she wanted to convey. The potential is there, and I can see the passion and emotion behind the page. But as someone who has read countless stories and watched countless movies with this kind of plot, I’m no longer as easily swayed or invested in sad fics. It takes a lot more than just motivational or inspirational lines that appear randomly—even when they don’t fit the scene—and a sad ending to win me over.
This is not a bad book. Far from it, actually. But I do hope that the flaws of the Wattpad version are fixed and improved upon in the published one.
August 2, 2021
Someone already warned me before that this is gonna hurt. I've been warned...but it doesn't make the pain after reading it any less than what I'm feeling right now. I'm sad and hurt but somehow I'm also happy.
I love that this book shows us the beauty of life, of taking chances and being brave enough to look for the person you were meant to be, of the importance of self love and putting yourself first, of how vulnerable life is and we don't know how long we will be here so you have to make the best out of it. There's a long list of things I've realized after reading this book and I'll be forever grateful that I've come to know this book.
I'm sure that people in their 20's or even those that are lost at the moment will relate to this. We're all Isabelle Dizon in our own reality, pressured, lost and scared. This will book will give you the push you needed to apply to that job or run in the student council, or just be brave enough to step towards your passion. It's inspiring but still...painful. It's bittersweet and...I'll stop here now cuz I don't want to spoil you but I just want you to know that I'm currently at that place where I still want to bawl my eyes out but I'm still happy because I wouldn't choose any other ending for this book. It's how the way things are supposed to be and the author did a great job for it.
The new style of writing is kind of new for me, I had a hard time adjusting at first but I already got the hang of it so everything's good. This is giving me the vibes that maybe, just maybe, this is somehow based on a real life story. Maybe not everything, but still, and I will be forever grateful that the author shared it to her readers, me included.
I love that this book shows us the beauty of life, of taking chances and being brave enough to look for the person you were meant to be, of the importance of self love and putting yourself first, of how vulnerable life is and we don't know how long we will be here so you have to make the best out of it. There's a long list of things I've realized after reading this book and I'll be forever grateful that I've come to know this book.
I'm sure that people in their 20's or even those that are lost at the moment will relate to this. We're all Isabelle Dizon in our own reality, pressured, lost and scared. This will book will give you the push you needed to apply to that job or run in the student council, or just be brave enough to step towards your passion. It's inspiring but still...painful. It's bittersweet and...I'll stop here now cuz I don't want to spoil you but I just want you to know that I'm currently at that place where I still want to bawl my eyes out but I'm still happy because I wouldn't choose any other ending for this book. It's how the way things are supposed to be and the author did a great job for it.
The new style of writing is kind of new for me, I had a hard time adjusting at first but I already got the hang of it so everything's good. This is giving me the vibes that maybe, just maybe, this is somehow based on a real life story. Maybe not everything, but still, and I will be forever grateful that the author shared it to her readers, me included.
December 14, 2025
When will you be brave?
October 14, 2025
3.5/5 ⭐ I can't easily wrap up how I feel about this book, it affected me in a deeper unknown level. It's a beautiful tragic discovery and adventure story of 7 young adults that would definitely resonate to anyone on the same range. I found myself reeking of the same feelings and challenges that our FMC is facing. And it's not only her that thinks about every encouraging line that her newfound friends are giving to her but it goes through me as well. Never cried a lot from a very long time but it doesn't mean that this book just made me feel sad, it warms my heart in a way that cannot easily be found but at the same is– cause being brave and feeling alive could be done by reaching out to anyone out there, your loved ones, or within thyself.
I like this book and is something would last in my mind. It's highly recommendable but maybe not as a background read while you do a thriller/ horror read marathon (like I did). Cause I told myself that I want a light read where I would just smile and laugh, and to take away the stress I get from thriller books, but as far as anyone knows this book is not that light-hearted XD
I did not give it a solid 4 or 5 stars because I just feel like the other 4 or even 5 characters are more of a background people. Maybe just because I expected the book to also explore deeper than that, so it was a letdown for me that it didn't. And in the first part, Gavin, did not feel too real or genuine for me because he would just suddenly spurt out words. I don't know but only a personal nitpick that he feels like a walking self-help book. And I also cringe every time he calls Isabelle ‘babes’. Then lastly, I also do not like that (SPOILLLERSSSS)
.
.
.
.
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A character has again a disorder because I am just over that kind of plot. I was indeed heartbroken when he died but for me, this book could still work even without Gavin having a disease or dying at the end. But other than these things, this book is good.
I like this book and is something would last in my mind. It's highly recommendable but maybe not as a background read while you do a thriller/ horror read marathon (like I did). Cause I told myself that I want a light read where I would just smile and laugh, and to take away the stress I get from thriller books, but as far as anyone knows this book is not that light-hearted XD
I did not give it a solid 4 or 5 stars because I just feel like the other 4 or even 5 characters are more of a background people. Maybe just because I expected the book to also explore deeper than that, so it was a letdown for me that it didn't. And in the first part, Gavin, did not feel too real or genuine for me because he would just suddenly spurt out words. I don't know but only a personal nitpick that he feels like a walking self-help book. And I also cringe every time he calls Isabelle ‘babes’. Then lastly, I also do not like that (SPOILLLERSSSS)
.
.
.
.
.
A character has again a disorder because I am just over that kind of plot. I was indeed heartbroken when he died but for me, this book could still work even without Gavin having a disease or dying at the end. But other than these things, this book is good.
September 25, 2025
I cried from the first few chapters up to the very end. When I finished, I just lay down and cried quietly.
This story reminded me of my own struggles, especially the times I felt shut out by my mom. But at the same time, reading it healed a part of me.
Reading this book brought me mix of emotions, sad and heavy, yet hopeful. It reminded me that life is short, and the best thing we can do is live bravely and stay true to ourselves.
I really saw myself in Isabelle Dizon. The need for validation, the pressure, the fear of what people might say, those were all too familiar. Like her, I also craved freedom.
Back then, my mom interfered with my circle of friends and decided for me to cut ties. I was too weak to fight back, and up until now, I haven't reconnected with some of them. It still hurts, but I'm glad they're doing well.
That said I'm really happy for Isabelle, but also a little envious. She got the closure I never had with my parents. Still, her journey gave me a sense of healing, even if mine remains unfinished.
I think many people, especially those who feel a bit lost, will find themselves in this book. We've all been Isabelle at some point: pressured, unsure, and afraid to take risks. Her story reminded me that even the smallest step toward what you want can already be an act of courage.
This book also made me miss my teenage years, those carefree moments with high school and college friends. If only we could turn back time.
Overall, this was a painful read, but absolutely worth it.
I gave it five stars because it stirred up so many emotions and touched my soul. This might be the exact book someone out there needs. Be brave.
Love,
Cosmo ♡
This story reminded me of my own struggles, especially the times I felt shut out by my mom. But at the same time, reading it healed a part of me.
Reading this book brought me mix of emotions, sad and heavy, yet hopeful. It reminded me that life is short, and the best thing we can do is live bravely and stay true to ourselves.
I really saw myself in Isabelle Dizon. The need for validation, the pressure, the fear of what people might say, those were all too familiar. Like her, I also craved freedom.
Back then, my mom interfered with my circle of friends and decided for me to cut ties. I was too weak to fight back, and up until now, I haven't reconnected with some of them. It still hurts, but I'm glad they're doing well.
That said I'm really happy for Isabelle, but also a little envious. She got the closure I never had with my parents. Still, her journey gave me a sense of healing, even if mine remains unfinished.
I think many people, especially those who feel a bit lost, will find themselves in this book. We've all been Isabelle at some point: pressured, unsure, and afraid to take risks. Her story reminded me that even the smallest step toward what you want can already be an act of courage.
This book also made me miss my teenage years, those carefree moments with high school and college friends. If only we could turn back time.
Overall, this was a painful read, but absolutely worth it.
I gave it five stars because it stirred up so many emotions and touched my soul. This might be the exact book someone out there needs. Be brave.
Love,
Cosmo ♡
January 6, 2026
Something Spectacular follows the story of Isabelle Dizon, a prim and proper college student with straight As and a seemingly perfect family.
At least on the outside.
Since living such life also comes with extreme pressure and various struggles.
During one of the lowest points of her college life, Isabelle has a chance encounter with Gavin, a bubbly and playful guy who is part of The Arcadian (the university’s official print publication).
From then on, we witness Isabelle’s life slowly transform and become painted with colors alongside her new found friends Gavin, Pia, Stephen, Lawrence, Charlie, and Rhea.
At the onset, Something Spectacular presents a familiar plotline in which characters from different family backgrounds, personalities, and struggles come together.
But what I appreciate the most about this story is its heart and the tenderness with which it is written. Amid the struggles these characters endure, there remains space for their weary hearts to be soothed and for hope to quietly bloom.
I’m glad that the story did not focus solely on Isabelle’s struggles. Instead, it ensured that more young people can find themselves in one character or another. Be it the straight-A student, the carefree and happy-go-lucky one, or the responsible daughter, among others. It offered strong youth representation. Because at some point in our lives, I’m sure we have all been an Isabelle, Gavin, Pia, Stephen, Lawrence, Charlie, or Rhea.
You know, I’m just grateful for the existence of this book and I can only hope and wish that more people around the age group of these fictional characters get to read it. I’m sure they can identify with these characters and even learn a thing or two from them.
PS. Something Spectacular got me reminiscing about my high school and college journey. I may have been an introvert, but I certainly had fun and made fond memories with my tight-knit friends and even my classmates.
At least on the outside.
Since living such life also comes with extreme pressure and various struggles.
During one of the lowest points of her college life, Isabelle has a chance encounter with Gavin, a bubbly and playful guy who is part of The Arcadian (the university’s official print publication).
From then on, we witness Isabelle’s life slowly transform and become painted with colors alongside her new found friends Gavin, Pia, Stephen, Lawrence, Charlie, and Rhea.
At the onset, Something Spectacular presents a familiar plotline in which characters from different family backgrounds, personalities, and struggles come together.
But what I appreciate the most about this story is its heart and the tenderness with which it is written. Amid the struggles these characters endure, there remains space for their weary hearts to be soothed and for hope to quietly bloom.
I’m glad that the story did not focus solely on Isabelle’s struggles. Instead, it ensured that more young people can find themselves in one character or another. Be it the straight-A student, the carefree and happy-go-lucky one, or the responsible daughter, among others. It offered strong youth representation. Because at some point in our lives, I’m sure we have all been an Isabelle, Gavin, Pia, Stephen, Lawrence, Charlie, or Rhea.
You know, I’m just grateful for the existence of this book and I can only hope and wish that more people around the age group of these fictional characters get to read it. I’m sure they can identify with these characters and even learn a thing or two from them.
PS. Something Spectacular got me reminiscing about my high school and college journey. I may have been an introvert, but I certainly had fun and made fond memories with my tight-knit friends and even my classmates.
September 7, 2022
Mixed emotions tbh mixture of sad and happy i guess
Life is short so make the most out of it
The book emphasized having courage ,being brave and loving your true self.
I somehow feel like being Isabelle Dizon ,the way i relate to her.Validations,being under pressured and afraid from what others will think in us. The eagerness to have that freedom.
This book will provide you with the inspiration you need to step out of your comfort zones and succeding in life .Something Spectacular
Like how other readers feel , i admire the leads for being realistic.They makes mistakes and they have weaknesses. Challenges should not be a hindrance to us in achieving our goals.
We should not prioritize what other thinks,we should not be affected to thrm. My own opinion matters to me kumbaga.
My fave part is when Gavin is motivating them to be brave. Gavin was correct. The Arcadian have a special place in my heart.
5/5 siya sis
Life is short so make the most out of it
The book emphasized having courage ,being brave and loving your true self.
I somehow feel like being Isabelle Dizon ,the way i relate to her.Validations,being under pressured and afraid from what others will think in us. The eagerness to have that freedom.
This book will provide you with the inspiration you need to step out of your comfort zones and succeding in life .Something Spectacular
Like how other readers feel , i admire the leads for being realistic.They makes mistakes and they have weaknesses. Challenges should not be a hindrance to us in achieving our goals.
We should not prioritize what other thinks,we should not be affected to thrm. My own opinion matters to me kumbaga.
My fave part is when Gavin is motivating them to be brave. Gavin was correct. The Arcadian have a special place in my heart.
5/5 siya sis
August 16, 2022
Gavin and The Arcadian will always be my comfort characters.
It has become my favourite book of all time. It’s well-written. I love how flawed the characters are, they’re true to life. It’s like an eye opener that even a fiction character doesn’t have a perfect life, just like us, they also make mistake and their life is also as messed up as ours but they’re not letting it to be an obstacle, instead they’re making it the reason to fight for life and that inspired me. These characters taught me that I shouldn’t be listening or living up to other people’s expectation about me but rather I should be living up to my OWN expectation and opinion about myself. I’m now in slow progress of healing and letting go of the things that’s hurting me. Just like Gavin said: Baby steps, Isabelle. This book became personal for me. I learned so much from it.
To Gavin, I hope wherever you are, you’re well and proud of what Arcadian have become. We miss you so much. Be brave.
It has become my favourite book of all time. It’s well-written. I love how flawed the characters are, they’re true to life. It’s like an eye opener that even a fiction character doesn’t have a perfect life, just like us, they also make mistake and their life is also as messed up as ours but they’re not letting it to be an obstacle, instead they’re making it the reason to fight for life and that inspired me. These characters taught me that I shouldn’t be listening or living up to other people’s expectation about me but rather I should be living up to my OWN expectation and opinion about myself. I’m now in slow progress of healing and letting go of the things that’s hurting me. Just like Gavin said: Baby steps, Isabelle. This book became personal for me. I learned so much from it.
To Gavin, I hope wherever you are, you’re well and proud of what Arcadian have become. We miss you so much. Be brave.
August 29, 2024
I have been following every update of this story since I was in Senior High. But, I will finally make my review on this.
This story made me feel lots of emotions, that at the end of the story - I felt numb. Maybe because my tear ducts got tired, because every chapter I read made me cry. Or I just feel a bit calm at the end of the story.
The ending was heartbreaking, but I don't know how to describe it because I felt calmed after I read it. Though, it made me stop reading other stories for a while, as I can't seem to move on from this story.
I love how well written all the characters are. I love how the story seems so simple and realistic, yet magical.
Something Spectacular is not just a story for young adults that are finding their paths, but also for adults that are currently lost and want to find their place. Everyone can relate to this story.
Don't lose courage, breathe and be brave everyone.
This story made me feel lots of emotions, that at the end of the story - I felt numb. Maybe because my tear ducts got tired, because every chapter I read made me cry. Or I just feel a bit calm at the end of the story.
The ending was heartbreaking, but I don't know how to describe it because I felt calmed after I read it. Though, it made me stop reading other stories for a while, as I can't seem to move on from this story.
I love how well written all the characters are. I love how the story seems so simple and realistic, yet magical.
Something Spectacular is not just a story for young adults that are finding their paths, but also for adults that are currently lost and want to find their place. Everyone can relate to this story.
Don't lose courage, breathe and be brave everyone.
November 30, 2025
One of my favorite books, and I will always rate it 5 stars.
I first read this when I was in high school on Wattpad, a minor and a dreamer. This book helped me through the pandemic. I was so lost during that time, and it inspired me to be brave and courageous. Now that I’m an adult, rereading it feels like the first time, especially having it as a physical book.
Arcadian is full of life, a story about six people whose friendship helps them live, grow, and be brave together. This book feels so realistic; the characters have flaws and imperfections. It’s full of lessons, and it taught me to stop listening to others and to be myself, to live life to the fullest and choose a path that only I can decide.
I will always recommend this book, especially to teenagers and adults. I know everyone can relate
I first read this when I was in high school on Wattpad, a minor and a dreamer. This book helped me through the pandemic. I was so lost during that time, and it inspired me to be brave and courageous. Now that I’m an adult, rereading it feels like the first time, especially having it as a physical book.
Arcadian is full of life, a story about six people whose friendship helps them live, grow, and be brave together. This book feels so realistic; the characters have flaws and imperfections. It’s full of lessons, and it taught me to stop listening to others and to be myself, to live life to the fullest and choose a path that only I can decide.
I will always recommend this book, especially to teenagers and adults. I know everyone can relate
August 14, 2021
I already read this book when I was still in highschool, and I still clearly remember some details. I noticed a few changes in the self-pub and it's still great. The difference from then and now, is that, I can fully savour the words. But that doesn't mean I didn't when I was hs. It's just that, it still feels different when you read the book physically, and I think every reader understands that. One thing that didn't change was that, this book still made me bawl like a child. A good bawl if I would say.
Would still recommend this to people who wants to start wattpad. Especially if they want to read something that'll make them cry a good cry.
Would still recommend this to people who wants to start wattpad. Especially if they want to read something that'll make them cry a good cry.
December 30, 2025
The magic of this book lies in how it handles the ache of growing up. The dynamic between the characters drives the narrative from a simple coming-of-age tale into something far more profound and heartbreaking. It’s a tear-jerker, yes, but not for the sake of cheap drama. It hurts because it feels real. It asks the heavy question, "When will you be brave?" and demands an answer. If you are lost, pressured, or just waiting for your life to actually start, this book is the push you need. It’s a reminder that perfection is boring, time is fleeting, and the only way to make life spectacular is to actually live it.
June 16, 2022
This book hella hurt me. It hurt me in two different ways: through a sad ending, and a beautiful story of love, growing, and taking risks. The character developments in this book is something we definitely should look up to. This is a masterpiece. A hidden gem. It has everything you need if you just want a good cry.
October 31, 2022
The book that scared me to read another book that may contain sad endings. Every time I read a new one, I have to ask people if the ending is good. I want to read this again but can't bring myself to do so. This will always be my favorite Filipino book. I definitely recommend this but make sure to prepare a dozen boxes of tissues.
November 30, 2023
This book will make you cry. I love it to the bones haha. However, this book open me to another level of wonders and gifts of life. It was a refreshing dose of story where the plot was never made for the weak but it is for the weak to become stronger in facing uncertainties. I love it very much, everything about it is a solar power of summer.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 30, 2025
To be fair, i am and will never be a fan of sad stories. But for some reason, this book really made me read this kind of stuff. I love how Isabelle was written and my heart ache for them. Giving this a 5 because it piqued my interest, enough for me to finish the book and love my life.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 22, 2021
Made me miss my highschool friends ☹☹
Currently reading
April 24, 2022my friend suggest me to read this book
June 2, 2022
one of my fave books i have read on Wattpad.
June 7, 2022
an unforgettable story that gave me so much lessons and lots of 'what ifs' because of the ending
June 21, 2022
My all time fave — comfort story and squad. This book literally own me huhu, i kept rereading it bcs it was so hella good! It's a worth reading. Combination of sad and a happy ending 💕
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2022
tearjearky.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2022
I cried a lot after reading this. I lived near Dagupan city and when I finished reading this story, I never looked at region 2 hospital the same way I did before reading this.
November 20, 2022
MY ARCADIANS
December 7, 2022
i hate this book so much. it was so depressing but it taught me a lot. gavin tt lol this was so painful i can't even read her next books
January 25, 2023
Cried sm. I can’t reread this 3
February 17, 2023
sobs i love you more than i remember you.
June 1, 2023
This story wrecked me yet i'd still read it again and again. I always miss the Arcadian–specially Gavin :(
June 29, 2023
One of my fave books! this book showed how bravery can change anything ❤️
January 2, 2024
still rmb how i bawled my eyes out while washing the dishes + reading gavin's letter 😭
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews