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A Little Like Waking
You’ve Reached Sam meets The Good Place in this deeply-felt, surreal and fully illustrated love story about a girl, a boy, a dreamer, and a dream from best-selling and award-winning author Adam Rex.
Zelda is stuck in a dream. A very strange dream, where people can fly, bears sneeze money, and her childhood cat, Patches, is somehow alive - despite being run over years ago. Things only get stranger when Zelda meets Langston, a sweet if overly timid guy who feels more real to her than anyone she’s ever met.
As Zelda and Langston explore the far reaches of the dreamscape together, they find themselves growing closer and closer. But what they uncover along the way pushes them towards a truth neither of them wants to face. Will it turn out that he's the guy of her dreams, or is she the girl of his?
Full of mind-bending artwork, Adam Rex's A Little Like Waking is a tender, insightful read that defies time, space, and expectation that's perfect for fans of Every Day and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.
Zelda is stuck in a dream. A very strange dream, where people can fly, bears sneeze money, and her childhood cat, Patches, is somehow alive - despite being run over years ago. Things only get stranger when Zelda meets Langston, a sweet if overly timid guy who feels more real to her than anyone she’s ever met.
As Zelda and Langston explore the far reaches of the dreamscape together, they find themselves growing closer and closer. But what they uncover along the way pushes them towards a truth neither of them wants to face. Will it turn out that he's the guy of her dreams, or is she the girl of his?
Full of mind-bending artwork, Adam Rex's A Little Like Waking is a tender, insightful read that defies time, space, and expectation that's perfect for fans of Every Day and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.
400 pages, Hardcover
First published August 1, 2023
16 people are currently reading
3418 people want to read
About the author
Adam Rex
91 books776 followersAdam Rex grew up in Phoenix, Arizona, the middle of three children. He was neither the smart one (older brother) or the cute one (younger sister), but he was the one who could draw. He took a lot of art classes as a kid, trying to learn to draw better, and started painting when he was 11. And later in life he was drawn down to Tucson in order to hone his skills, get a BFA from the University of Arizona, and meet his physicist wife Marie (who is both the smart and cute one).
Adam is nearsighted, bad at all sports, learning to play the theremin, and usually in need of a shave. He can carry a tune, if you don't mind the tune getting dropped and stepped on occasionally. He never remembers anyone's name until he's heard it at least three times. He likes animals, spacemen, Mexican food, Ethiopian food, monsters, puppets, comic books, 19th century art, skeletons, bugs, and robots.
Garlic and crosses are useless against Adam. Sunlight has been shown to be at least moderately effective. A silver bullet does the trick. Pretty much any bullet, really.
Adam is nearsighted, bad at all sports, learning to play the theremin, and usually in need of a shave. He can carry a tune, if you don't mind the tune getting dropped and stepped on occasionally. He never remembers anyone's name until he's heard it at least three times. He likes animals, spacemen, Mexican food, Ethiopian food, monsters, puppets, comic books, 19th century art, skeletons, bugs, and robots.
Garlic and crosses are useless against Adam. Sunlight has been shown to be at least moderately effective. A silver bullet does the trick. Pretty much any bullet, really.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
September 8, 2023
Format: audiobook ~ Narrator: Jess Nahikian; J. D. Jackson
Content: 4 stars ~ Narration: 4 stars
Complete audiobook review
Zelda is trapped in an endless dream. As always, in a dream, many unusual things happen. She even encounters her childhood cat, Patches. Later, she meets a boy named Langston, whom she really likes. Together, they all explore this mysterious world. Reading the novel feels like a dream, with numerous surreal and bizarre events.
This novel is categorized as a YA romance, and I do not enjoy reading conventional romance novels. However, in this particular case, I am happy I gave it a chance. Because A Little Like Waking is a delightfully surreal YA novel, and it truly is a unique read, with its original writing and setting. As a reader, you are stuck in a dream with Zelda. I thoroughly enjoyed the ride, although I guess I'm not exactly the target audience.
There are two narrators, and the female narrator tells most of the story. The female narrator is perfect, but unfortunately, the male voice didn’t meet my expectations. The narration is not bad, but I think the narrator’s voice is not the right one for this character.
Thanks to Dreamscape Media for the advanced copy and this opportunity! This is a voluntary review and all opinions are my own.
Content: 4 stars ~ Narration: 4 stars
Complete audiobook review
Zelda is trapped in an endless dream. As always, in a dream, many unusual things happen. She even encounters her childhood cat, Patches. Later, she meets a boy named Langston, whom she really likes. Together, they all explore this mysterious world. Reading the novel feels like a dream, with numerous surreal and bizarre events.
This novel is categorized as a YA romance, and I do not enjoy reading conventional romance novels. However, in this particular case, I am happy I gave it a chance. Because A Little Like Waking is a delightfully surreal YA novel, and it truly is a unique read, with its original writing and setting. As a reader, you are stuck in a dream with Zelda. I thoroughly enjoyed the ride, although I guess I'm not exactly the target audience.
There are two narrators, and the female narrator tells most of the story. The female narrator is perfect, but unfortunately, the male voice didn’t meet my expectations. The narration is not bad, but I think the narrator’s voice is not the right one for this character.
Thanks to Dreamscape Media for the advanced copy and this opportunity! This is a voluntary review and all opinions are my own.
October 24, 2023
The summary compares the show to Eternal Sunshine, but I think it was very The Truman Show. And a little heads up in case you're like me and got the target audience confused, but this is meant for younger readers than your usual YA. So you'll find more lighthearted jokes, silly situations, have a more adventure-driven story, but it's not for kids either.
3.5 rounded up to 4, because there is too much here worth 4 stars or even 5, even if the story itself read like a 3.
Zelda doesn't know she's living in a dream until she meets Langston. A boy that hadn't been in her little town until she's almost hit by a car when she's hurrying in a bike to her Geography test. After this, her world is a mess. Why does everyone know her name, even people she doesn't know? Why are her classmates flying? Why is her cat who died years ago speaking like an erudite? And if she's dreaming, how does she wake up? She and Langston and Patches, her cat, go out on a quest to the end of the dream, even though they're not even sure if they're even the one who is dreaming.
The book is complete with artwork showing key scenes and the town when Zelda is stuck. The tone sometimes is reminiscent of fairy tales, I mean, we even have a forest with a wizard, so the drawings felt like a good complement.
It's also a quick read, and such a different one, I'd say that if you're in doubt, it won't take much of your time if you give this a chance. However, the constant jokes that I'll underline that DID make me laugh most of the times, they also got on my nerves. The story gets a good conclusion, and I liked how the weird elements of the dream came together there, sometimes as a nice plot twist I didn't see coming. However, it got convoluted at times too. This could be my fault for thinking this was your usual contemporary YA romance, so I'm not used to books for younger audiences or how their rhythm is or even the tone of the storytelling, still, I didn't like it much, especially how repetitive situations could get until we got to the point. The romance had a good development, but the start of it was too weird and awkward (even though there is a reason for this, so I suspect it's on purpose). Another thing I didn't like is that the book deals with heavy themes but, probably because it's all in a dream, they aren't treated as seriously as they should, and when you're talking to younger readers, I think they should have.
It's a weird book, but its weirdness ends up being refreshing. I guarantee its a different experience worth having.
Honest review based on an ARC provided by Netgalley. Many thanks to the publisher for this opportunity.
3.5 rounded up to 4, because there is too much here worth 4 stars or even 5, even if the story itself read like a 3.
Zelda doesn't know she's living in a dream until she meets Langston. A boy that hadn't been in her little town until she's almost hit by a car when she's hurrying in a bike to her Geography test. After this, her world is a mess. Why does everyone know her name, even people she doesn't know? Why are her classmates flying? Why is her cat who died years ago speaking like an erudite? And if she's dreaming, how does she wake up? She and Langston and Patches, her cat, go out on a quest to the end of the dream, even though they're not even sure if they're even the one who is dreaming.
The book is complete with artwork showing key scenes and the town when Zelda is stuck. The tone sometimes is reminiscent of fairy tales, I mean, we even have a forest with a wizard, so the drawings felt like a good complement.
It's also a quick read, and such a different one, I'd say that if you're in doubt, it won't take much of your time if you give this a chance. However, the constant jokes that I'll underline that DID make me laugh most of the times, they also got on my nerves. The story gets a good conclusion, and I liked how the weird elements of the dream came together there, sometimes as a nice plot twist I didn't see coming. However, it got convoluted at times too. This could be my fault for thinking this was your usual contemporary YA romance, so I'm not used to books for younger audiences or how their rhythm is or even the tone of the storytelling, still, I didn't like it much, especially how repetitive situations could get until we got to the point. The romance had a good development, but the start of it was too weird and awkward (even though there is a reason for this, so I suspect it's on purpose). Another thing I didn't like is that the book deals with heavy themes but, probably because it's all in a dream, they aren't treated as seriously as they should, and when you're talking to younger readers, I think they should have.
It's a weird book, but its weirdness ends up being refreshing. I guarantee its a different experience worth having.
Honest review based on an ARC provided by Netgalley. Many thanks to the publisher for this opportunity.
June 25, 2023
“Night falls like it was pushed.” Are you kidding me Adam Rex??!! Not only does he describe solitude, and falling in love, and a million shades of uncertainty in this glowing novel, he goes ahead and describes nightfall in a way that makes every other writer who ever wrote a sunset look like a chump.
December 8, 2024
This book was absolutely whimsical and perfect. The artwork in it just amplified the amazing journey I felt while reading it. I love the sense of humor Adam Rex has and also how real he can be. The reminder to treasure your loved ones and those around you is beautiful.
July 26, 2023
Dialogue felt so childish for YA
August 1, 2023
I was kind of expecting to be crying the whole time based on the comps. Here's a happy surprise though, I spent most of the time laughing, because this was such a delightfully weird book, with some more seriousness blended in. The humor may not be for everyone, but I positively adored it. It really made the story feel incredibly fresh and unique, which I appreciated, and it made me genuinely enjoy reading the book.
Zelda and Langston are great characters and all, but if you don't fall completely in love with Patches, the dead talking cat, then you simply cannot be helped. See what I mean about this book being quirky? It is, yet for me, wonderfully so. It probably tends toward the younger side of YA, but it was so charming that I really think it will appeal to people of any age. I mean- who among us can't relate to a dream that feels way too real, right? Only this one is seemingly endless, and Zelda and Langston (and obviously Patches) are trying their best to figure out why.
And that is the crux of the book: overcoming your fears and other obstacles is a big part of life in the real world. And so to get back to it, someone is going to have to overcome a lot of stuff, especially since the dream town keeps pulling the whole gang back in. The story wraps up nicely, if a bit easily, but overall I was really glad I read this book, for it was a delightful experience.
Bottom Line: This book genuinely lifted my spirits and made my heart happy, and I hope it does the same for yours!
You can find the full review and all the fancy and/or randomness that accompanies it at It Starts at Midnight
Zelda and Langston are great characters and all, but if you don't fall completely in love with Patches, the dead talking cat, then you simply cannot be helped. See what I mean about this book being quirky? It is, yet for me, wonderfully so. It probably tends toward the younger side of YA, but it was so charming that I really think it will appeal to people of any age. I mean- who among us can't relate to a dream that feels way too real, right? Only this one is seemingly endless, and Zelda and Langston (and obviously Patches) are trying their best to figure out why.
And that is the crux of the book: overcoming your fears and other obstacles is a big part of life in the real world. And so to get back to it, someone is going to have to overcome a lot of stuff, especially since the dream town keeps pulling the whole gang back in. The story wraps up nicely, if a bit easily, but overall I was really glad I read this book, for it was a delightful experience.
Bottom Line: This book genuinely lifted my spirits and made my heart happy, and I hope it does the same for yours!
You can find the full review and all the fancy and/or randomness that accompanies it at It Starts at Midnight
August 14, 2024
What!!! This book was SOO GOOD! I found myself laughing the entire time while reading it, and found its bizarre plot interesting and intriguing, and its characters lovable and relatable. This book felt like The Good Place, giving you the same emotional, inspirational, and laugh-out-loud humor. A book that could be so wise while never grounding itself away from the outlandish!
September 26, 2023
'a little like waking' was so surreal and so much fun, and completely nailed the weirdness of being in a dream.
you spend the whole book bouncing back between 'is zelda the dreamer? is langston?? is it the talking cat?!' because all and none of the above seem plausible. its so entertaining and i had finally settled on 'they're probably having some weird shared dream' when the plot twist hit and,, it was so good
the characters were so silly (and i loved the narrator's voices for them) but i really liked langston especially - something about how much of a girlfailure he was really spoke to me tbh..
about the "romance" part - you find yourself really rooting for zelda and langston (personally, i'd be making breakfast while listening to the audiobook and screaming 'KISS ALREADY' but that experience might vary) but there wasn't actually much romance?? i'd call this more of an adventure/fantasy book.. which brings me to the fact that although the book is labeled as YA it kind of reads like a book for younger readers? but is still completely enjoyable for any age and so witty and cute :3
the only thing that kind of took me out of the experience was that it got a bit repetitive/overly descriptive sometimes, but i still overall really liked this :D give it a read!!!!! or a listen!!!!!
arc from netgalley
you spend the whole book bouncing back between 'is zelda the dreamer? is langston?? is it the talking cat?!' because all and none of the above seem plausible. its so entertaining and i had finally settled on 'they're probably having some weird shared dream' when the plot twist hit and,, it was so good
the characters were so silly (and i loved the narrator's voices for them) but i really liked langston especially - something about how much of a girlfailure he was really spoke to me tbh..
about the "romance" part - you find yourself really rooting for zelda and langston (personally, i'd be making breakfast while listening to the audiobook and screaming 'KISS ALREADY' but that experience might vary) but there wasn't actually much romance?? i'd call this more of an adventure/fantasy book.. which brings me to the fact that although the book is labeled as YA it kind of reads like a book for younger readers? but is still completely enjoyable for any age and so witty and cute :3
the only thing that kind of took me out of the experience was that it got a bit repetitive/overly descriptive sometimes, but i still overall really liked this :D give it a read!!!!! or a listen!!!!!
arc from netgalley
September 19, 2024
THIS BOOK?!! SO GOOD?!!!!! I’m still reeling from how amazing this book was, holy heck.
A Little Like Waking was funny, clever, whimsical, a breath of fresh air, and everything about it was BEAUTIFUL. 💕✨🌸💖
It was dark, it brought joy, it made me laugh out loud, it was thoughtful, it was just SO GOOD. The writing style (which seems to be a hit-or-miss for people) is delightful! (Ughhh, quick lil side note here because it’s bugging me: I’m not sure why having humor, a style of writing that’s different than the typical YA book, and characters that talk naturally and not very “adult-like” makes it “childish” but okie dokey. I personally thought the writing style was WONDERFUL and vibes with Lemony Snicket in its whimsy and wit. 💕)
I lovedddd all the funky dream stuff Adam Rex had in this book. Teeth falling out! Being late for something! The dream house always looking like your own! Everything that’s common in dreams was in this book and I thoroughly enjoyed that aspect.
ALSO, I freaking LOVE how Adam Rex wrote the book, drew the cover, all the gorgeous illustrations inside the book, AND took the author photo??! Like?!! How cool is that?! (The artwork blew me away, btw. It’s beautiful.)
I went in expecting to love A Little Like Waking and I came out kinda freaking adoring it. It’s a book I will sing high praises for and will recommend to anyone and everyone. 💕
A Little Like Waking was funny, clever, whimsical, a breath of fresh air, and everything about it was BEAUTIFUL. 💕✨🌸💖
It was dark, it brought joy, it made me laugh out loud, it was thoughtful, it was just SO GOOD. The writing style (which seems to be a hit-or-miss for people) is delightful! (Ughhh, quick lil side note here because it’s bugging me: I’m not sure why having humor, a style of writing that’s different than the typical YA book, and characters that talk naturally and not very “adult-like” makes it “childish” but okie dokey. I personally thought the writing style was WONDERFUL and vibes with Lemony Snicket in its whimsy and wit. 💕)
I lovedddd all the funky dream stuff Adam Rex had in this book. Teeth falling out! Being late for something! The dream house always looking like your own! Everything that’s common in dreams was in this book and I thoroughly enjoyed that aspect.
ALSO, I freaking LOVE how Adam Rex wrote the book, drew the cover, all the gorgeous illustrations inside the book, AND took the author photo??! Like?!! How cool is that?! (The artwork blew me away, btw. It’s beautiful.)
I went in expecting to love A Little Like Waking and I came out kinda freaking adoring it. It’s a book I will sing high praises for and will recommend to anyone and everyone. 💕
August 28, 2025
This is genuinely one of the best books I have read all year and the fact that it has less than 100 ratings on here is a crime.
the drawings are beautiful, the ending made me CRY, and the whole book is so fun to read it feels like i'm not even reading. i would give this book six stars if i could.
edit: it's been almost 6 months and i still think about this book all the time. an instant add to the favorites shelf for me
edit 8/27/25: hey guys, just letting you know this is ONE OF MY FAVORITE BOOKS (as a very picky person who has given 5 stars to less than 5 books in the past 2 years) and it has less than 300 ratings. WHAT THE HELL??? read this book.
the drawings are beautiful, the ending made me CRY, and the whole book is so fun to read it feels like i'm not even reading. i would give this book six stars if i could.
edit: it's been almost 6 months and i still think about this book all the time. an instant add to the favorites shelf for me
edit 8/27/25: hey guys, just letting you know this is ONE OF MY FAVORITE BOOKS (as a very picky person who has given 5 stars to less than 5 books in the past 2 years) and it has less than 300 ratings. WHAT THE HELL??? read this book.
January 30, 2023
I read this book with my 12 year old daughter and we both loved it!
What a fantastic adventure we went on with Zelda! We never knew where she'd end up or what would happen next!
What a fantastic adventure we went on with Zelda! We never knew where she'd end up or what would happen next!
August 10, 2023
Zelda is stuck in a dream. A really weird dream. With Patches, her talking cat that she thought was dead, a wizard, and a boy. A really cute boy. Who feels more real than anyone in town. But as much as she would love to stay, Zelda knows that all dreams must end, and it feels like this one has lasted a few days longer than normal... So, as she and her two companions set on a quest towards the edge to find the dreamer of the dream and wake them up, Zelda begins to question if she truly is the hero of her own story.
I’ll start and say that it took me a couple chapters to get into this book because I didn’t quite understand what was happening and there was some repetition that threw me but after that, this book became an Alice in Wonderland type of dreamlike book that I adored (sans Carroll’s obvious critiques of people he knew). And I did enjoy the little illustrations that were placed throughout but as I read an E-ARC/eBook of it, I feel like they’ll be a little better in a physical copy of the book.
And at the end, while the plot twist shocked me a bit, but in hindsight, I guess there were clues but I had a different rationalization, I’m sadder about Patches (and the illustration at the end didn’t help😅)
I’m trying to think of more to say about this book but it’s kind of hard to do without spoiling it.
I had a really powerful ending thought for this review but then I realized it spoiled the book. Le sigh.
I’ll start and say that it took me a couple chapters to get into this book because I didn’t quite understand what was happening and there was some repetition that threw me but after that, this book became an Alice in Wonderland type of dreamlike book that I adored (sans Carroll’s obvious critiques of people he knew). And I did enjoy the little illustrations that were placed throughout but as I read an E-ARC/eBook of it, I feel like they’ll be a little better in a physical copy of the book.
And at the end, while the plot twist shocked me a bit, but in hindsight, I guess there were clues but I had a different rationalization, I’m sadder about Patches (and the illustration at the end didn’t help😅)
I’m trying to think of more to say about this book but it’s kind of hard to do without spoiling it.
I had a really powerful ending thought for this review but then I realized it spoiled the book. Le sigh.
February 21, 2024
A wonderful, creative and powerful YA story that is beautifully crafted and illustrated with very impressive pencil drawings.
The author, a children’s illustrator by trade had been creating this book over 10 years and it really is the work of someone who has allowed the idea to percolate and bubble up over time to a multilayered very refreshing and satisfying story.
There’s no spoilers here so I will not try to explain what the story is except to say (as it does in the title and the cover) that it is a character’s story of them taking place in their dream. Metaphors abound with people flying (freeing themselves from the binds that together there lives), animals taking (they really do have personalities) and of course monsters in all shapes and sizes (our fears and anxieties made flesh). A major theme throughout is trying understand who is having the dream and a coming of age story between a teenage girl and a boy who suddenly appears in the story.
The story is best digested slowly, a chapter at a time. The book is illustrated throughout with beautiful drawings that haunt the reader and extend the reading experience and seem to have the power to draw the reader into the dream.
Great ending - will not disappoint. No spoilers - you’ll have to read it yourselves.
My copy is a hardcover version and a book I know will remain a treasured item in my library.
The author, a children’s illustrator by trade had been creating this book over 10 years and it really is the work of someone who has allowed the idea to percolate and bubble up over time to a multilayered very refreshing and satisfying story.
There’s no spoilers here so I will not try to explain what the story is except to say (as it does in the title and the cover) that it is a character’s story of them taking place in their dream. Metaphors abound with people flying (freeing themselves from the binds that together there lives), animals taking (they really do have personalities) and of course monsters in all shapes and sizes (our fears and anxieties made flesh). A major theme throughout is trying understand who is having the dream and a coming of age story between a teenage girl and a boy who suddenly appears in the story.
The story is best digested slowly, a chapter at a time. The book is illustrated throughout with beautiful drawings that haunt the reader and extend the reading experience and seem to have the power to draw the reader into the dream.
Great ending - will not disappoint. No spoilers - you’ll have to read it yourselves.
My copy is a hardcover version and a book I know will remain a treasured item in my library.
September 27, 2025
I'm so used with reliable narrator in a book, so an unreliable one caught me off guard.
It was weird in a dreamy way (ofc bcs it's a dream duh). I can see the potential and the idea was there. However, I find it hard to keep up with the pace of this plot and where this story is going.... It took me a while to grasp what they're after. The uncannies could be better written.
However, I admired the author way of connecting these strange in dreams to be a coming of age, less romance (imho) into a coherent stories. People may enjoy or lost in it.
I think the writing is way too juvenile to my liking. I love Patches, but sometimes it's hard being inside Zelda's head all the time (I don't hate her though, it's just too much and sometimes too cringey). But I can see how younger readers will love this story.
I got an arc and I LOVE THE ILLUSTRATIONS, I can imagine it would be so much better in the finished print.
If you're into coming of age story and sweet little romance, in a dream world (affectionately weird dream world), give it a go✨
It was weird in a dreamy way (ofc bcs it's a dream duh). I can see the potential and the idea was there. However, I find it hard to keep up with the pace of this plot and where this story is going.... It took me a while to grasp what they're after. The uncannies could be better written.
However, I admired the author way of connecting these strange in dreams to be a coming of age, less romance (imho) into a coherent stories. People may enjoy or lost in it.
I think the writing is way too juvenile to my liking. I love Patches, but sometimes it's hard being inside Zelda's head all the time (I don't hate her though, it's just too much and sometimes too cringey). But I can see how younger readers will love this story.
I got an arc and I LOVE THE ILLUSTRATIONS, I can imagine it would be so much better in the finished print.
If you're into coming of age story and sweet little romance, in a dream world (affectionately weird dream world), give it a go✨
February 9, 2025
this book was interesting and i liked the concept. the dreamscape was so abstract and odd and philosophical. i enjoyed following the adventures of zelda and patches and langston. however, i think that this was just a little too out there for me. as much as i thought this was a neat idea, i just really struggled to follow the plot sometimes. the poetry and kind of gibberish language was fun but ended up throwing me off course and with the extent of weirdness that this dream brought, there were a lot of times where i was reading and seeing but had no idea what was going on.
i didn’t dislike this book, i just didn’t love it. i can see where some people might find this fabulous, but it just isn’t quite my cup of tea. regardless, i am glad i read it and branched out of my normal genre of reading.
i didn’t dislike this book, i just didn’t love it. i can see where some people might find this fabulous, but it just isn’t quite my cup of tea. regardless, i am glad i read it and branched out of my normal genre of reading.
August 20, 2023
This was one of the most delightfully strange books I’ve ever read; luckily I don’t mind being confused when reading. I enjoyed the ride this book took me on and thought all the little details of the dreamscape were brilliantly intertwined. It was slightly reminiscent of Challenger Deep in that aspects of the real world manifest in unexpected ways in the dream world. Some of the scenes and situations were laugh-out-loud funny and the way it all built to a satisfying conclusion left me very happy. I would definitely recommend this book.
Read
August 5, 2024Did not finish this fantasy for ages 12-18. I was looking forward to it, because I like his work for younger kids, and it's unusual to have a teen book with illustrations. I don't really like dreams that much, or Alice in Wonderland, and the "what the hell is going on" dream stuff that was happening went on too long. Zelda did figure out it was a dream though. Maybe. Is it? Just when she is about to see the "boy" again (I know because I looked at a few of the upcoming pictures), she gets a package in the mail that takes way too long to open. I couldn't take it anymore and decided I'd read enough.
August 17, 2023
If you handed me this book five years back I'd have hugged it to sleep every night. Fast-forward to today and I LOVED EVERY SECOND OF IT. And even after half a decade from now on, it’ll still get me head over heels! That’s the kind of book this is. The illustrations and the meticulous details were on point! I'm calling it: this baby's getting a round two in my reading queue.
December 12, 2023
Interesting book… wild imagination but it reflects dreaming which makes sense. I liked the last quarter of the book the most. Hard to follow though at times.
November 22, 2024
- really funny, but really weird. As one would expect from living in a dream world
- I can tell what the big twist is from the beginning, but maybe it's not meant to be much of a surprise?
- I can tell what the big twist is from the beginning, but maybe it's not meant to be much of a surprise?
September 26, 2023
4.5
Zelda is enjoying her life in her small happy town where everyone knows her name until she almost gets in an accident on her bike and meets a boy who changes everything. She starts to question why she always has a test she hasn't studied for, why her cat talks, and why everyone knows her but she only knows a few people. She starts to believe that she is living in a dream and everyone around her is made up by her imagination. Problem is, everyone else thinks they are the dreamer, too. Who is the real person? What do our dreams mean? Is it better to live in a happy fantasy than a sad reality?
I really enjoyed the humor mixed with serious self-reflection and surreal environment. The only reason I didn't give it a full 5 stars was because I think it wandered a bit too far sometimes and could lose the reader a little.
Playlist:
What Was I Made For? by Billie Eilish (like if this song wasn't made for the Barbie movie, I would have thought it was made for this book)
Sleep Forever by Portugal. The Man
Zelda is enjoying her life in her small happy town where everyone knows her name until she almost gets in an accident on her bike and meets a boy who changes everything. She starts to question why she always has a test she hasn't studied for, why her cat talks, and why everyone knows her but she only knows a few people. She starts to believe that she is living in a dream and everyone around her is made up by her imagination. Problem is, everyone else thinks they are the dreamer, too. Who is the real person? What do our dreams mean? Is it better to live in a happy fantasy than a sad reality?
I really enjoyed the humor mixed with serious self-reflection and surreal environment. The only reason I didn't give it a full 5 stars was because I think it wandered a bit too far sometimes and could lose the reader a little.
Playlist:
What Was I Made For? by Billie Eilish (like if this song wasn't made for the Barbie movie, I would have thought it was made for this book)
Sleep Forever by Portugal. The Man
June 14, 2024
As you all recall, I grabbed this book off of the library shelf because I was drawn to the name of the novel: "A Little Like Waking."
I am not sure as to why I was so drawn to it, but I am glad that I grabbed it! This was such an odd and exciting read. I thought this story would focus on romance (there was romance involved) but it focused more on the adventure aspect.
Usually I am able to predict endings to a story (or get somewhere close) but not this one! I was on the edge of my seat until the very end.
If you love YA novels, want to expereince a fun adventure, and get a little taste of romance, this is the book for you!
I am not sure as to why I was so drawn to it, but I am glad that I grabbed it! This was such an odd and exciting read. I thought this story would focus on romance (there was romance involved) but it focused more on the adventure aspect.
Usually I am able to predict endings to a story (or get somewhere close) but not this one! I was on the edge of my seat until the very end.
If you love YA novels, want to expereince a fun adventure, and get a little taste of romance, this is the book for you!
Read
August 1, 2024This is billed as You’ve Reached Sam meets The Good Place and that is a perfect description. It has the gentle love story, the yearning, the magic of Sam, coupled with this dreamlike world that they seem to inhabit – is it reality, is it a dream, does it even matter (ala The Good Place)? It’s a whimsical and very gentle look at loss and letting go placing it in a dream space as a save way to examine feelings. Perfect for kids who are going to grow up and claim Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind as their favourite movie.
- Kristen
- Kristen
January 28, 2023
Zelda is stuck inside a dream world where everyone knows her name and anything is possible. There, she meets Langston, a mysterious boy who she can’t stop thinking about. Together, they set off to try to figure out what is going on and hopefully find a way to wake up before it’s too late. Oh, did I mention there’s a talking cat?
I found the writing to be childlike and whimsical, and in this case, given the subject matter, this wasn’t a bad thing at all and I believe that was intentional. It was confusing, especially at the beginning, but I’m sure that was intentional too-to make you feel what the character is feeling. It worked.
This story was absolutely adorable and reminded me heavily of the movie Bedtime Stories that I used to love as a kid mixed with Fairly Odd Parents, but Zelda is her own Cosmo and Wanda. Call me a child, but I loved the added illustrations-I think it really brought the dream world to life. When you take this book at face value and for what the author intended, I think it definitely landed. Unfortunately, it wasn’t the kind of story I was looking for and did not totally enjoy in this moment. However, I will not hold that against the book itself.
Thank you to Macmillan children’s publishing, the author and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
I found the writing to be childlike and whimsical, and in this case, given the subject matter, this wasn’t a bad thing at all and I believe that was intentional. It was confusing, especially at the beginning, but I’m sure that was intentional too-to make you feel what the character is feeling. It worked.
This story was absolutely adorable and reminded me heavily of the movie Bedtime Stories that I used to love as a kid mixed with Fairly Odd Parents, but Zelda is her own Cosmo and Wanda. Call me a child, but I loved the added illustrations-I think it really brought the dream world to life. When you take this book at face value and for what the author intended, I think it definitely landed. Unfortunately, it wasn’t the kind of story I was looking for and did not totally enjoy in this moment. However, I will not hold that against the book itself.
Thank you to Macmillan children’s publishing, the author and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
Want to read
June 18, 2019this sounds trippy and so I'm in
June 7, 2023
Prepare to be whisked away on a mesmerizing adventure that will captivate your imagination and leave you yearning for more. "Little Like Waking" by Adam Rex is a literary gem that not only dazzles with its enchanting storytelling but also conjures vivid images that could easily translate into a breathtaking cinematic experience. Brace yourself for a narrative that seamlessly blends fantasy and reality, leaving you immersed in a world that feels both familiar and delightfully otherworldly.
From the very first page, it becomes abundantly clear that "Little Like Waking" is a work of pure imagination. Adam Rex's rich prose and masterful storytelling transport readers to a realm where dreams and reality intertwine, blurring the boundaries between what is possible and what lies beyond our wildest fantasies. The book's pages come alive with vibrant characters, magical landscapes, and heart-pounding adventures that leave you hanging on to every word.
The book has the extraordinary ability to paint vivid visuals in the reader's mind. With every turn of the page, Rex's evocative descriptions create a cinematic experience, where scenes unfold like carefully crafted frames from a movie reel. It's impossible not to picture the breathtaking landscapes, intricate creatures, and heart-stopping action that leap off the page, enticing your imagination and making you yearn for this epic tale to be brought to life on the big screen.
The characters in "Little Like Waking" are as unforgettable as they are diverse. From the charismatic protagonist with unwavering determination to the enigmatic companions encountered along the way, each character possesses a depth that sparks emotions and resonates long after the book is finished. It is no stretch of the imagination to envision these complex personalities stepping out of the pages and onto the silver screen, captivating audiences with their quirks, strengths, and vulnerabilities.
The story itself is a sweeping adventure, mystery, and self-discovery. As the protagonist navigates the intricacies of a world that defies logic and challenges beliefs, readers are taken on a journey of personal growth and profound revelations. The narrative is crafted with such finesse that it feels as if you're watching a thrilling blockbuster unfold, complete with breathtaking set pieces, spine-tingling suspense, and jaw-dropping plot twists.
It is no surprise that "Little Like Waking" has the potential to become a captivating movie. The rich world-building, imaginative visuals, and compelling storyline lend themselves perfectly to the silver screen treatment. From the dazzling special effects to the spellbinding cinematography, the cinematic adaptation of this book has the power to transport audiences on an unforgettable voyage, inviting them to explore the depths of their own dreams and aspirations.
"Little Like Waking" is a remarkable literary feat that beckons for its story to be translated into a visually stunning cinematic masterpiece. Rex's exquisite prose, combined with his vivid imagination, creates a world so vivid and extraordinary that it practically begs for its story to be brought to life on the big screen. Prepare to be whisked away on an unforgettable journey, where dreams and reality collide in a symphony of wonder and adventure.
From the very first page, it becomes abundantly clear that "Little Like Waking" is a work of pure imagination. Adam Rex's rich prose and masterful storytelling transport readers to a realm where dreams and reality intertwine, blurring the boundaries between what is possible and what lies beyond our wildest fantasies. The book's pages come alive with vibrant characters, magical landscapes, and heart-pounding adventures that leave you hanging on to every word.
The book has the extraordinary ability to paint vivid visuals in the reader's mind. With every turn of the page, Rex's evocative descriptions create a cinematic experience, where scenes unfold like carefully crafted frames from a movie reel. It's impossible not to picture the breathtaking landscapes, intricate creatures, and heart-stopping action that leap off the page, enticing your imagination and making you yearn for this epic tale to be brought to life on the big screen.
The characters in "Little Like Waking" are as unforgettable as they are diverse. From the charismatic protagonist with unwavering determination to the enigmatic companions encountered along the way, each character possesses a depth that sparks emotions and resonates long after the book is finished. It is no stretch of the imagination to envision these complex personalities stepping out of the pages and onto the silver screen, captivating audiences with their quirks, strengths, and vulnerabilities.
The story itself is a sweeping adventure, mystery, and self-discovery. As the protagonist navigates the intricacies of a world that defies logic and challenges beliefs, readers are taken on a journey of personal growth and profound revelations. The narrative is crafted with such finesse that it feels as if you're watching a thrilling blockbuster unfold, complete with breathtaking set pieces, spine-tingling suspense, and jaw-dropping plot twists.
It is no surprise that "Little Like Waking" has the potential to become a captivating movie. The rich world-building, imaginative visuals, and compelling storyline lend themselves perfectly to the silver screen treatment. From the dazzling special effects to the spellbinding cinematography, the cinematic adaptation of this book has the power to transport audiences on an unforgettable voyage, inviting them to explore the depths of their own dreams and aspirations.
"Little Like Waking" is a remarkable literary feat that beckons for its story to be translated into a visually stunning cinematic masterpiece. Rex's exquisite prose, combined with his vivid imagination, creates a world so vivid and extraordinary that it practically begs for its story to be brought to life on the big screen. Prepare to be whisked away on an unforgettable journey, where dreams and reality collide in a symphony of wonder and adventure.
August 1, 2023
It has to be said, I think a lot of people are confused as to the target audience here… mostly because Zelda is eighteen, but the things happening here seem like something a thirteen year old would dream up, yet I had to look up some of the vocabulary and references. That said, this is a book I would have loved for my niece when she was ten… it’s also a book I am thinking of getting for two of by best book-buds over thirty. The target audience is listed as 12-18 year olds, but I don’t think there’s really an age cap here.
Zelda is loved by all- outgoing and charming. She meets things head on- even the thought of being in a dream and having to wake up (though I found it sweet that she worried about the others in her dream- like, ‘If I wake, what happens to Clara?’) She knows it’s what she should do, even as she basks in all the things the world offers- including the boy of her dreams. I loved her for this. The scenarios were funny, outlandish and just so charming. While they had fears to conquer, and enemies to battle it never got too scary- less than Goosebumps level (did I just date myself there?).
Patches, out feline poet, is amazing. He’s charming and sarcastic at times, a bit full of himself and well… a cat. He’s also where most of the vocabulary I looked up came from. Erx, the all knowing wizard who just wants to stay safely at home, was a great addition. Then there’s Langston with all his phobias, anxiety and awkwardness. He is adorable and I love how he reacts to Zelda. Honestly, the first half of the book was basically the most adorable show of puppy love ever.
I saw some people talking about how the dialogue was immature- and maybe some was as the FL is eighteen…. but I found it rather refreshing, and suited to the scenarios and atmosphere. This is a world a kid would think up- why make everyone talk like adults (though much of the time Patches did)? In many ways it was an ode to childhood dreams and I loved it for that. I think I enjoyed it more when I didn’t try to place it in an age group- it’s for everybody (though a dictionary is a good idea- which makes the eBook nice. All I had to do is highlight a work and it would ask if I wanted to look it up).
The book is smart and witty, it draws the reader in. There’s also sketches every so often, which I loved. The scary parts were low level adventure, nothing that I would worry about reading to a young child ( for example, the four PE teachers of the Apocalypse and laundromat clown). It was just so charming. I am actually trying to decide if I need to buy the eBook for my bookbuds or if we want a paper copy. Also, do I need the audiobook edition? One thing is certain, I am buying at least two copies of this book- it’s one I am dying to share, plus I know I will want to read it again. For me, this was a five star book.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 5 out of 5.
On the adult content scale, there’s some violence and low level curse words. Nothing over the top, I still would have given it to my niece when she was ten.
I was lucky enough to recieve an eARC from Netgalley and Roaring Brook Press in exchange for an honest review. This did not sway my rating in any way.
Zelda is loved by all- outgoing and charming. She meets things head on- even the thought of being in a dream and having to wake up (though I found it sweet that she worried about the others in her dream- like, ‘If I wake, what happens to Clara?’) She knows it’s what she should do, even as she basks in all the things the world offers- including the boy of her dreams. I loved her for this. The scenarios were funny, outlandish and just so charming. While they had fears to conquer, and enemies to battle it never got too scary- less than Goosebumps level (did I just date myself there?).
Patches, out feline poet, is amazing. He’s charming and sarcastic at times, a bit full of himself and well… a cat. He’s also where most of the vocabulary I looked up came from. Erx, the all knowing wizard who just wants to stay safely at home, was a great addition. Then there’s Langston with all his phobias, anxiety and awkwardness. He is adorable and I love how he reacts to Zelda. Honestly, the first half of the book was basically the most adorable show of puppy love ever.
I saw some people talking about how the dialogue was immature- and maybe some was as the FL is eighteen…. but I found it rather refreshing, and suited to the scenarios and atmosphere. This is a world a kid would think up- why make everyone talk like adults (though much of the time Patches did)? In many ways it was an ode to childhood dreams and I loved it for that. I think I enjoyed it more when I didn’t try to place it in an age group- it’s for everybody (though a dictionary is a good idea- which makes the eBook nice. All I had to do is highlight a work and it would ask if I wanted to look it up).
The book is smart and witty, it draws the reader in. There’s also sketches every so often, which I loved. The scary parts were low level adventure, nothing that I would worry about reading to a young child ( for example, the four PE teachers of the Apocalypse and laundromat clown). It was just so charming. I am actually trying to decide if I need to buy the eBook for my bookbuds or if we want a paper copy. Also, do I need the audiobook edition? One thing is certain, I am buying at least two copies of this book- it’s one I am dying to share, plus I know I will want to read it again. For me, this was a five star book.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 5 out of 5.
On the adult content scale, there’s some violence and low level curse words. Nothing over the top, I still would have given it to my niece when she was ten.
I was lucky enough to recieve an eARC from Netgalley and Roaring Brook Press in exchange for an honest review. This did not sway my rating in any way.
March 29, 2023
'A Little Like Waking' is such a lovely book. If I had a quarter for all the times I've thought this, I would have enough for a down payment. And my thoughts ring very true. This novel oozes life from its pages. I feel like I was reading a graphic novel from how well every person, thing, and scene was described. The world-building is fantastic! Every character and thing written in this book is so relatable that they feel real. I want them to be real.
The main gang: Zelda, Langston, Erx, and Patches are charismatic and fun that they make any situation funnier/ridiculous the more you think of it. I didn't expect these characters to have such depth that all their actions seem unique to who they are, which is wonderful. For example, I especially didn't like Zelda because she seemed like the self-centered type. However, her character fits the narrative, so I came to like what she was supposed to be for the story! Patches the cat is my favorite because he adds so much prestige and snark to the writing and story; I adore him.
From the title and beautiful cover, all the way to the acknowledgments, I was completely intrigued by this story and the themes it offered. Even when I put it down to take a beak, I still thought about it! (I'm thinking about it as you read this very sentence.) The beginning and the ending of this book are especially my favorites. The writing in these places is especially strong and well-organized!
There are a few things I didn't quite like in this novel, though: I found it odd that the book started in middle grade and seemed to suddenly switch to YA. I even assumed that Zelda was an 8th/9th grader initially! The book should consistently keep the YA themes and language throughout because it fits so well! The poetic and lyrical quality of the writing is so beautiful and fitting. Still, it becomes confusing when this is paired with a heavy imagery scene, as it became hard for me to understand what was happening. I had to reread some of these areas.
And lastly, my favorite sections are the beginning and end. The middle of this book feels a bit random because the pacing feels like a push and pull. I also feel this with the development of Zelda and Langston's romance. Some ideas are rushed in some areas, and certain scenes are super slow and drags on. It makes sense because of the type of setting (A super wacky dream). Still, the middle could use better plot organization and pacing. The romance can feel less like a jump with more tension building because it feels like Zelda basically rushed everything (Which makes perfect sense in context, though!)
Overall, 'A Little Like Waking' is awesome. It's so relatable, and the writing is so fresh that it is such a satisfying read. Thank you to NetGallery and Macmillan Children's Publishing Group for the opportunity to review this book!
The main gang: Zelda, Langston, Erx, and Patches are charismatic and fun that they make any situation funnier/ridiculous the more you think of it. I didn't expect these characters to have such depth that all their actions seem unique to who they are, which is wonderful. For example, I especially didn't like Zelda because she seemed like the self-centered type. However, her character fits the narrative, so I came to like what she was supposed to be for the story! Patches the cat is my favorite because he adds so much prestige and snark to the writing and story; I adore him.
From the title and beautiful cover, all the way to the acknowledgments, I was completely intrigued by this story and the themes it offered. Even when I put it down to take a beak, I still thought about it! (I'm thinking about it as you read this very sentence.) The beginning and the ending of this book are especially my favorites. The writing in these places is especially strong and well-organized!
There are a few things I didn't quite like in this novel, though: I found it odd that the book started in middle grade and seemed to suddenly switch to YA. I even assumed that Zelda was an 8th/9th grader initially! The book should consistently keep the YA themes and language throughout because it fits so well! The poetic and lyrical quality of the writing is so beautiful and fitting. Still, it becomes confusing when this is paired with a heavy imagery scene, as it became hard for me to understand what was happening. I had to reread some of these areas.
And lastly, my favorite sections are the beginning and end. The middle of this book feels a bit random because the pacing feels like a push and pull. I also feel this with the development of Zelda and Langston's romance. Some ideas are rushed in some areas, and certain scenes are super slow and drags on. It makes sense because of the type of setting (A super wacky dream). Still, the middle could use better plot organization and pacing. The romance can feel less like a jump with more tension building because it feels like Zelda basically rushed everything (Which makes perfect sense in context, though!)
Overall, 'A Little Like Waking' is awesome. It's so relatable, and the writing is so fresh that it is such a satisfying read. Thank you to NetGallery and Macmillan Children's Publishing Group for the opportunity to review this book!
March 4, 2023
i’m going to rate this book a solid 2 ⭐️. this was an extreme miss for me. i just didn’t really find anything memorable. the writing style was just okay, since i am not the biggest fan of third person pov. i didn’t relate to the characters at times. there wasn’t that magical and mystical feeling happening when reading. the book blurb said this was an “unconventional love story”, but only like one part talked about their romantic relationship. although the ending, i was satisfied and content with, and that was like the last 10% of the book. i just wish there was some consistency to where i enjoyed the book throughout, and not at the end.
what drawn me to the book was the synopsis. it’s an unpredictable adventure where zelda is stuck in a dream and is trying to get out and go back to reality. she meets her dream boy, langston, and they are set out for an adventure trying to get out of the dream they are stuck in. i think the plot line for most of the book is figuring out who is the dreamer. this simple plot line turned into chaos! so many things were happening all at once, i felt a bit overwhelmed trying to process everything. it makes sense though because it is a dream where weird and odd things occur, but it just took away everything the story was trying to tell in my opinion.
for instance, not trying to give anything away but there’s a talking cat named patches who’s with langston and zelda. there’s gym teachers on horses that started to randomly play dodgeball with zelda for no reason. a talking stuffed animal bear. outrageous ice cream flavors where the ice cream man was trying to sell to patches (the cat), and the cat just ends up choosing vanilla. someone trying to grow a corndog by using lemonade and it grew into a carnival ride. baby presidents. witches made out of cobwebs. patches randomly breaking out into a poem. also when talking about most of the dialogue, it just felt like someone was pressing random keys on the keyboard and hoped for the best. for instance, when the dialogue was in all caps didn’t do it for me, or dialogue that included the ‘#’ and ‘;’.
overall, i just don’t think the book is for me. it may be for someone though. there are some illustrations in the book that were so detailed and gorgeous, i would say! it was probably the strongest part of the book because i was able to visualize what was going on in the chaotic plot lines. nonetheless, i am glad that i tried out a new genre!
thank you netgalley and roaring brook press for the advanced reader copy! i’m really grateful! and if interested, this book will release on august 1st, 2023! 🌌💫✨
what drawn me to the book was the synopsis. it’s an unpredictable adventure where zelda is stuck in a dream and is trying to get out and go back to reality. she meets her dream boy, langston, and they are set out for an adventure trying to get out of the dream they are stuck in. i think the plot line for most of the book is figuring out who is the dreamer. this simple plot line turned into chaos! so many things were happening all at once, i felt a bit overwhelmed trying to process everything. it makes sense though because it is a dream where weird and odd things occur, but it just took away everything the story was trying to tell in my opinion.
for instance, not trying to give anything away but there’s a talking cat named patches who’s with langston and zelda. there’s gym teachers on horses that started to randomly play dodgeball with zelda for no reason. a talking stuffed animal bear. outrageous ice cream flavors where the ice cream man was trying to sell to patches (the cat), and the cat just ends up choosing vanilla. someone trying to grow a corndog by using lemonade and it grew into a carnival ride. baby presidents. witches made out of cobwebs. patches randomly breaking out into a poem. also when talking about most of the dialogue, it just felt like someone was pressing random keys on the keyboard and hoped for the best. for instance, when the dialogue was in all caps didn’t do it for me, or dialogue that included the ‘#’ and ‘;’.
overall, i just don’t think the book is for me. it may be for someone though. there are some illustrations in the book that were so detailed and gorgeous, i would say! it was probably the strongest part of the book because i was able to visualize what was going on in the chaotic plot lines. nonetheless, i am glad that i tried out a new genre!
thank you netgalley and roaring brook press for the advanced reader copy! i’m really grateful! and if interested, this book will release on august 1st, 2023! 🌌💫✨
April 9, 2024
Dreamers unite! Mr. Rex has written, if not an ode, a lunatic YA romance/dissertation about dreaming. So many of the recurring dream themes are here -- scary clowns, being naked in school, starring in a performance without any rehearsal, unsuccessfully searching for a public bathroom, and not being able to read!! "I thought I was the only one with those dreams," every reader will say. In the midst of this kookiness, there is philosophical pondering. What does it mean if we aren't the main character in our own dream? Are we a stock photo person? How do we dream about strangers? It's mindfuckery, no question, and it is utterly satisfying. It's Daniel Pinkwater with even less restraint and less physics and history, but with advanced Psych. The audiobook reader is a stitch with her, "Honky honky honky honky honk honk. Cootchie coooooo," when the clown is approaching and threatening. But if you read the audiobook, you have to AT LEAST SKIM through the book to see Rex's comical artwork. (C'mom people, this is the man who helped bring The Legend of Rock Paper Scissors to our lucky world.) Few folks in my immediate circle will appreciate this, but a few world and word-wise upper elementary kids will get a hilarious introduction to the world of YA light romance if they give this a try.
Bonus: toddler US Presidents
Bonus: snooty talking cat who interrupts romance moments ("Patches groans one long groan that goes on for eight seconds. He flops onto his side and blows a raspberry." pg152)
Bonus: unwoke gym teachers on steeds ("'My friends're excused today,' shouts Zelda. 'They have doctors' notes! And I'm ... having female troubles!' The gym teachers blanch. One of them almost falls off his horse. They're obviously terrified of female troubles.")
Bonus: the characters' names are literary -- Zelda, Langston, Baldwin... (Zelda might be Legend of, but it could be Fitzgerald, depending on the dreamer, right?)
Bonus: references to Tolkien and Monty Python
Bonus: toddler US Presidents
Bonus: snooty talking cat who interrupts romance moments ("Patches groans one long groan that goes on for eight seconds. He flops onto his side and blows a raspberry." pg152)
Bonus: unwoke gym teachers on steeds ("'My friends're excused today,' shouts Zelda. 'They have doctors' notes! And I'm ... having female troubles!' The gym teachers blanch. One of them almost falls off his horse. They're obviously terrified of female troubles.")
Bonus: the characters' names are literary -- Zelda, Langston, Baldwin... (Zelda might be Legend of, but it could be Fitzgerald, depending on the dreamer, right?)
Bonus: references to Tolkien and Monty Python
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