Bibliography: Mlynowski, Sarah.  (2010).  Gimme a Call.  New York: Delacorte Books for Young Readers ISBN:  9780385735889

Plot Summary:  When high school senior Devi drops her cell phone in the fountain at the mall, she discovers the only person she can call is her younger high school freshman self.  Now she can give herself the benefit of her wisdom and experience–together they can get into a great college, save their friendships, and avoid getting dumped by long time boyfriend Bryan.  But life has a way of working out despite plans and machinations, and sometimes what you think you want isn’t really all you need.

Critical Analysis:  Great concept executed with a lot of frothy fun.  Who hasn’t wished for a chance to do things over at some point in their lives?  Here Mlynowski creates a likable character who can’t win for losing.  Her instructions to her younger self often have unintended consequences and in trying to avoid certain events or people, she ends up smack in the middle of everything anyway.

Some of the scenarios work better than others, and one at the end seems to be outside the rules of the book which was a little jarring, but all in all, light chick lit with a message that no teen girl will mind, and that many need to hear.

Readalikes:  This reminded me of other light and funny fantasy titles that allow teens to see themselves through someone else’s eyes such as Freaky Friday by Mary Rodgers

Review Excerpts: “Devi’s frenzied attempts to better herself create some funny moments and a touching conclusion.”–Publisher’s Weekly

“Mlynowski fans will not be disappointed with this blend of chick-lit, light fantasy, and comedic mishaps.”–School Library Journal

“Fun and easy to relate to, but no great shakes.”–Kirkus Reviews

“[T]he author taps into a universal fantasy: Who hasn’t coveted a do-over in at least some aspect of life?…gives a contemporary feel to a timeless YA dilemma.”–Booklist

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