PUC's Budding Writer

Exciting, hilarious and intriguing is the best way to describe "Please Swipe Again," written by PUC's own Megan Mann. She has written a novella both entertaining and intriguing in its telling of the budding relationship of two young New Yorkers. It is impressive to believe this is her first book, as the amount of personality behind each character shows a great level of maturity.

The plot revolves around Ava and Kiernan, as they try to figure out their lives while exploring the streets of New York City. The point of view alternates from chapter to chapter between Ava and Kiernan. This unique style allows the readers to connect with the main characters to the fullest extent, and to sympathize with their trials and tribulations.

Music plays a huge part of this story. The song choices allow the reader to dive further into the atmosphere of the scenes and really feel the emotions of the characters. While this tool becomes a negative when the reader may not be familiar with the artist or song choice, having the option of compiling a playlist that goes hand-in-hand with the book is rather interesting and, for some, enjoyable.

Mann's further use of musical references drives the importance of music home.

For instance, there is a scene in the book where two characters end up having an intimate moment and afterwards the character states, "It allowed me to concentrate on what we had talked about before we brought a Motley Crue song to life." All innuendos aside, Mann finds a way to get readers laughing, whether it is Kiernan's arrogant, model cousin Travis making egotistical remarks and grinning at Ava's best friend, or Madison, who is a spunky fireball and receiver of grins. This combo of characters allows the book to flourish and shocks readers with its heavy sentimental and earnest under tones.

Due to quickly elapsed time and the short page count of the book, the character arcs feel a bit rushed, but they still manage to be solid and logical. The readers get to see Ava transform from a lost young girl to a strong young woman who makes tough decisions while they are smiling straight at her. Kiernan shifts from a scared young boy to an independent young man who is able to face decisions and confrontations head on. Allowing the readers to experience and see this transformation adds another level to the story and, though it is quickly done, it is not a sloppy or unrealistic progression.

Mann's first outing seems fluid and effortless, allowing the readers to look past her amateur status and see the budding, legitimate writer who rests inside these pages. Areas of detail and elaboration still require some tweaking though, as this book comes up at a brisk 93 pages. A bit more delving into Ava and Kiernan's strange relationship would have been happily welcomed to the story. Still, brevity aside, the book serves as an engaging read for all aspiring writers and young adults who are trying to find their inner spark.
"Please Swipe Again" by Megan Mann receives a 7 out of 10.

Jump back to original location.