This was a lovely holiday romp featuring mall life, especially around the holidays. But, while there were gushy, cute, romantic moments, the best parts of the book focused on the racism and discrimination that both Chloe and Peter faced as Asian Americans. I especially felt it was important that there are two perspectives included in the narrative. Chloe's parents are immigrants and know only a little English, whereas Peter's parents are American and have lost a lot of their Chinese heritage. So, you have two different Asian diaspora which helps to centre the ways in which racism targets many different people. Chloe's speeches were very inspiring and pushed the reader to really think about their own prejudices, racism, and biases. It asked the reader to see the people behind the businesses, to understand more than just the mall experience and to acknowledge the dedication of all those who work and toil for the American dream. I did not like how negative Chloe was towards herself, but I had to remind myself she is a teenage girl and that often means self deprecation and doubt stemming from societal standards. However, she also continuously talked about Peter's good looks, objectifying him. So, I did not vibe with those aspects of the book, but truthfully it feeds into the Young Adult literature engine (good or bad). I would have also liked a bit more fleshing out of the side characters. The friends of both Chloe and Peter seemed very two dimensional and could have used more depth. Chloe's friends seemed limited to the boy they both lusted after and their art. Peter's friends were jocks who loved video games. All the depth seemed to be saved for Chloe and Peter. Overall, I thought this was a cute story that did what it meant to. It pointed out inherent bias, it talked candidly about racism, it showcased a cute romance between a girl and boy who come from rival families. If you are looking for a sweet holiday romance, which also asks you to think every once in a while, than this book is for you.
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