How to Not Crack PMT by ArshiDokadia

Trials and tribulations of the teenage years are perfectly portrayed in this Chick Lit undiscovered gem. Through the many different aspects of the main character- sixteen-year- old Myra- life, including parents, friendships that come and go and first loves. There is even an inner monologue of the desire to go on Wattpad, read fanfiction and write rather than do school work. Who can't relate to that!?

This has to be one of the most feel-good books I've read in a long time. Set in India, I feel that it is a relatable storyline for every teenager who is trying to succeed in life by following societies expectations. The main character, Myra, is relatable to every girl, ever. Her growth throughout the story is one of my favorite things about this book, going from being shy and reserved to outgoing and confident about herself.

The author's style of writing is refreshing, and she is obviously obsessed with fandoms and references them as much as possible- not to the stories detriment though- it adds a reality to the story that can't help but make you smile- especially when your favorite fandom is mentioned and you have a small celebration that someone else- even a fictional character- loves it as much as you do!

The romance portrayed in this book is a charming, pure and innocent portrayal of first crush and first love. The author writers it with such ease you feel an instant connection and recognition to the feelings the character is experiencing.

One of my favorite aspects of the book was the sub plot of the mental health of the characters. Dealing with issues including depression and self-criticism, yet covering them with a realism and respect that is hard to find in books. She also portrays the condition of cyclothymia- a mild version of bi polar- very well, without going too deep and heavy into it. As a reader, I felt a great respect for the character in question- no spoilers! – who had this condition. The condition was subtly interwoven into the plot, with no over the top explanations or plot holes that left you saying "wait, what?!". For me, this was a great twist and welcome surprise, and I give the author a lot of credit for tackling these issues with such grace.

The overall message of the book I think could be taken differently by different people. For me, it was to always follow your dreams and do what makes you happy, no matter what anyone says or thinks. This is a really great message to get across to the readers, and leaves you feeling satisfied with the ending.

The simplicity in which this message is put across to the reader shows what a talented author she is. While reading it you don't feel like you're being lectured at or like the story revolves around this issue. It's subtle. You grow as the characters do, learn the message as they do.

With witty chapter titles, loveable characters, a relatable storyline and chapter endings that leave you wanting more, this is an undiscovered gem that you can't miss.

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