You know that feeling when you’re the new kid at school, and you just want to blend in and survive? Well, throw that out the window, because Kelsey Rodkey’s “Class Act” is here to remind us that sometimes, the best way to fit in is to stand out—even if it means taking on the whole dang system.
Picture this: It’s your first day at a fancy-schmancy private school, and instead of keeping your head down, you end up in a verbal sparring match with the student council president. Oh, and did I mention you land in detention? Talk about making an entrance! This is exactly how we meet our protagonist, Ella Parker-Evans, and let me tell you, it’s one heck of a ride from there.
The Plot Thickens (Like Really Good Pudding)
So, Ella’s not your average wallflower. Nope, she’s got spunk, sass, and a whole lot of determination. After her run-in with the big cheese of student politics, she decides, “You know what? I’m gonna run for president myself!” Because why not, right? New school, new you, new… political career?
But here’s where it gets juicy. Enter Patrick Logan, the school’s resident charmer and—plot twist—the principal’s son. He’s got this wild idea: pretend to be Ella’s boyfriend to help her win votes. It’s like every teen rom-com ever, but with more debates and less prom drama (okay, there’s still some drama, but it’s the good kind).
Characters That Feel Like Your BFFs (Or Frenemies)
Rodkey has this knack for creating characters that jump off the page. Ella’s not perfect—she’s got her flaws, her insecurities, and sometimes you just want to shake her and be like, “Girl, what are you doing?” But that’s what makes her real. She’s trying to figure out who she is, just like every other teenager on the planet.
And Patrick? Oh boy. He’s that guy you can’t help but like, even when you’re rolling your eyes at his cheesy lines. Their banter is – witty, sharp, and sometimes so awkward you can’t help but cringe (in the best way possible).
But it’s not just the main duo that shines. We’ve got a whole cast of supporting characters that’ll make you wish your high school was this interesting:
- Stevie: Ella’s bestie and social media guru. She’s like if Instagram was a person, but cooler.
- Connie: Ella’s little sister, who’s basically a walking, talking rom-com encyclopedia.
- Thomas: The antagonist you’ll love to hate (and maybe secretly root for sometimes).
Themes That’ll Make You Go “Hmm…”
Sure, “Class Act” by Kelsey Rodkey is fun and flirty, but it’s got some meat on its bones too. Rodkey dives into some pretty hefty themes:
- Identity and authenticity: Ella’s journey isn’t just about winning an election; it’s about figuring out who she is and what she stands for.
- Power dynamics: The book takes a hard look at how power works in high school (and let’s be real, in life).
- Family relationships: Ella’s relationship with her sister Connie is complicated, messy, and oh-so-real.
- The price of ambition: At what point does the desire to win overshadow everything else?
Writing Style: Snappy, Sassy, and Oh-So-Relatable
Kelsey Rodkey’s writing in Class Act is like that friend who always knows exactly what to say. It’s quick-witted, full of pop culture references, and has this way of capturing those cringy, awkward moments of teen life that’ll make you go, “Oof, I remember that feeling.”
The dialogue is where Rodkey really shines. The back-and-forth between characters feels natural and unforced. You can practically hear the eye rolls and the nervous laughter. It’s like eavesdropping on the coolest kids in school, but without the fear of getting caught.
Romance: It’s Complicated (Isn’t It Always?)
Let’s talk about the romance, because oh boy, is it a rollercoaster. Ella and Patrick’s fake relationship is the stuff of fanfiction dreams (and Connie would know). But as with all good fake dating tropes, things start to get real. Like, really real.
What I love about this romance is that it’s not just about the butterflies and stolen glances (though there’s plenty of that). It’s about two people challenging each other, pushing each other to be better. It’s messy and complicated and sometimes you want to scream at them to just kiss already, but that’s what makes it feel authentic.
The Political Game: More Than Just Popularity
Now, you might be thinking, “High school elections? Who cares?” But trust me, Rodkey makes student council politics feel like high-stakes drama. It’s not just about who’s the most popular; it’s about ideas, values, and the kind of school (and world) these kids want to live in.
The campaign scenes are some of the best parts of the book. From awkward debates to social media scandals, it’s like “House of Cards” meets “Mean Girls” – and I am here for it.
Humor That’ll Make You Snort-Laugh
Fair warning: don’t read this book in public unless you’re cool with people staring at you while you laugh out loud. Rodkey’s humor is on point. It’s sarcastic, it’s self-deprecating, and it’s got that perfect touch of absurdity that makes high school… well, high school.
Some of the funniest moments:
- Ella’s internal monologues during awkward situations
- The ridiculous campaign slogans and posters
- Pretty much any scene involving Connie and her fanfiction obsession
The Verdict: A Must-Read for Rom-Com Lovers and Political Junkies Alike
“Class Act” by Kelsey Rodkey is more than just another teen romance. It’s a smart, funny, and sometimes painfully relatable look at high school life, ambition, and the messiness of figuring out who you are.
Is it perfect? Nah. Sometimes the pacing feels a bit off, and there are moments where you might want to shake some sense into the characters. But you know what? That’s life, and that’s what makes this book feel so real.
Who Should Read This?
- Fans of YA rom-coms with a bit of substance
- Anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider (so… everyone?)
- Political junkies who want a lighter take on campaigning
- People who appreciate witty banter and pop culture references
Final Thoughts
Kelsey Rodkey has crafted a story that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking. It’s the kind of book that’ll make you laugh, maybe tear up a little, and definitely think about your own high school experience (for better or worse).
“Class Act” by Kelsey Rodkey is a reminder that sometimes, the most important elections aren’t the ones you see on TV. Sometimes, they’re the ones happening in high school hallways, where the stakes feel just as high and the drama is just as real.
So go ahead, cast your vote for “Class Act.” I promise you won’t regret it.
Similar Reads for Your TBR Pile
If you loved “Class Act,” here are some other books you might want to check out:
- “The Voting Booth” by Brandy Colbert: Another YA novel that mixes romance with politics, but on a larger scale.
- “Running” by Natalia Sylvester: A story about a teen whose father is running for president.
- “Red, White & Royal Blue” by Casey McQuiston: For those who want more political romance, but with a dash of royalty.
- “Tweet Cute” by Emma Lord: If you enjoyed the social media aspects of “Class Act,” this rom-com set in the world of Twitter wars might be right up your alley.
And don’t forget to check out Kelsey Rodkey’s other books, like “Last Chance Books” and “A Disaster in Three Acts.” Because once you get a taste of her writing, you’re gonna want more. Trust me on this one.