Review: The Last Boy and Girl in the World by Siobhan Vivian

The Last Boy and Girl in the World

by Siobhan Vivian
April 26, 2016

320 pages

Goodreads  Indigo

Goodreads Summary:

What if your town was sliding underwater and everyone was ordered to pack up and leave? How would you and your friends spend your last days together?

While the adults plan for the future, box up their possessions, and find new places to live, Keeley Hewitt and her friends decide to go out with a bang. There are parties in abandoned houses. Canoe races down Main Street. The goal is to make the most of every minute they still have together.

And for Keeley, that means taking one last shot at the boy she’s loved forever.

There’s a weird sort of bravery that comes from knowing there’s nothing left to lose. You might do things you normally wouldn’t. Or say things you shouldn’t. The reward almost always outweighs the risk.

Almost.

It’s the end of Aberdeen, but the beginning of Keeley’s first love story. It just might not turn out the way she thought. Because it’s not always clear what’s worth fighting for and what you should let become a memory.

 

Review

First off, some cover love because this cover is gorgeous! I love the use of the different shades of blue, the adorable graphics and the placement of the words as it connects and sinks into the water (like the story!). The way the ink of the words bleed when they touch the water is so creative. I love this scene. Its relevance will become clear as you read the book ;)

The Last Boy and Girl in the World came off as a bit of a slow read but I really enjoyed the story. It wasn't just about a girl trying to win the boy of her dream while her town slowly sinks under water. It was about the choices she makes along the way, how they affect her and those around her, the way she dealt with them and ultimately how she faces the consequences to some of her less than savory actions. Every step was honest and real.

Keeley didn't make the best decisions but I found her easy to read. She jokes around a lot but I can sympathize that it's her way of defusing tension and minimizing awkwardness. I found her to be a bit juvenile since while her town's sinking, she constantly only thought about getting with the boy she likes. Then again, I like that she went for it and gave it her best. Keeley navigated through newfound feelings and figured out who/what were truly most important. There was immense character growth as  bit by bit Keeley realizes  jokes won't solve any problems. She's left with only truths. I won't say she handled them well because she didn't but she pulled through realistically.

The romance in The Last Boy and Girl in the World was both obvious and subtle. I won't mention any names because then what fun would that be? You need to discover them for yourself ;) Keeley had a fun relationship with the boy she's liked since forever. They goofed off and did silly things. It was a nice switch considering the depressing mood that lingered over the fate of their town. I knew that as soon as this boy was introduced he was going to be the one. I definitely couldn't wait for their relationship to develop further. It was slow and almost perfect (almost because I wanted more... who wouldn't?!).

The history Keeley and Morgan share and the memories they're still creating together made me happy for them. It's so special. Especially since their mothers are best friends too. They had each other. When things kind of went downhill, I felt unfair on Keeley's behalf. I felt Morgan wasn't in any place to say those things to Keeley. I never got the sense that she tried very hard to understand Keeley's feelings. In the case of Elise, Morgan listened to Elise's wishes (of not involving Keeley) but she never talked to Keeley or comforted her about the exclusion. It was more than obvious how much Keeley valued their friendship so I'm glad we had some form of closure on that front.

Family was an important aspect in this book. I really loved how strong Keeley's mom was- not in a physical sense but in her ability to stand by her husband's side but also say enough when it's enough. She commanded respect whereas Keeley's father didn't. I didn't feel for him but I do believe his actions were made with the best intentions in mind. That excused him from getting more hate from me.

Despite its slower pacing, The Last Boy and Girl in the World is thought-provoking, down-to-earth and fun. Some things are meant to be let go so join these characters on cracking jokes, going crazy and mostly having a great time as they do so.

*I received an ARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinion are my own and not affected in any way.