The family dynamics here were really strong, too. Seriously, Ashleigh and Julie were Ashleigh-and-Julie, and I loved that. Ashleigh’s friendship with Julie was so strong, as was their devotion to each other - and it was so refreshing to see a pair of friends who don’t turn on each other the moment a pimply teenage boy shows them an ounce of attention. My friends and family have long teased me that I jump from one “obsession” to another, and I absolutely saw myself in Shulman’s whimsical character. What really anchored the whole novel for me was the knowledge that we all have an Ashleigh - or that we’ve all been an Ashleigh. But let me tell you, it didn’t really hurt this infectious story at all.

Was it obvious that, in the tradition of Jane Austen, we would get our very own happy ending? Sure. Were there times you wanted to punch Julie, our narrator, in the arm for being so obtuse? Definitely. Was the romance a wee bit predictable? Yes. It was absolutely, totally fun and adorable! That’s really the best way I can describe it. I can’t believe I only discovered this book by browsing through a bargain bookshelf. But which gentleman will pair off with which young lady? Or are they totally immune to the girls’ charms? At the dance they meet Ned Downing and Charles Grandison Parr, two “very suitable” young men who could very clearly resemble their own Mr. And from the moment Ash appears at Julie’s wearing a long gown, speaking in Regency language and begging her to crash a “ball” at neighboring all-boys school Forefield Academy, Julie knows this is no ordinary Enthusiasm.Īnd it’s not, of course. Usually glad to go along with Ash’s infectious, excited schemes, her latest is causing Julie to feel anxious - Ashleigh is now obsessed with Jane Austen’s classic Pride & Prejudice, Julie’s very own favorite book.

Ashleigh’s whims change without warning and encompass her entire being, dragging Julie along as she suddenly develops an interest in insects, candy-making or King Arthur - and then some. Julie Lefkowitz knows where her allegience lies - and it’s all with Ashleigh Rossi, her childhood best friend and serious Enthusiast.

Enthusiasm by polly shulman