By ALISON LIEBERMAN
“Roomies” is a clever and enjoyable novel about two soon-to-be roommates entering their freshman year of college. Readers are able to follow the lives of two girls as they embark on this new chapter in their lives and adapt to the many changes thrown their way.
Incoming college freshman Lauren Cole doesn’t know what to expect when she receives her roommate assignment, especially because she had requested a single. Living in a house with five brothers and sisters, all Lauren wanted was some peace and quiet. Lauren’s assigned roommate is a girl named Elizabeth Owens, who yearns for company after living on the opposite coast with her single mother. Elizabeth quickly shoots off a message to Lauren, which eventually becomes a series of emails detailing their most personal thoughts. Due to a strain on childhood friendships and family relationships, they find solace in being able to confide in each other.
I was pleasantly surprised with what this book had to offer. It’s one of those books that you can pick up and read in one sitting. The novel’s chapters alternate from the point of view of each of the main characters, which keeps the novel interesting. It seems to touch upon all the major milestones one would complete after graduation, and it leaves you wanting to know what happens next in each character’s life.
This novel was definitely made for a younger audience (12+), but it was an excellent read, not too long or too short. Once it is over, it leaves the reader wanting to know what’s next. Overall, I would give this book four hawks. “Roomies” does a great job of showing the emotional highs and lows of the personal lives of these roommates and how both girls form a friendship with each other from their shared struggles.
