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Frankly in Love

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2019

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Book Brief

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David Yoon

Frankly in Love

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2019
Book Details
Pages

432

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Southern California • Contemporary

Publication Year

2019

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

HL660L

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Super Short Summary

Frankly in Love by David Yoon follows Frank Li, a Korean American teenager struggling to balance his cultural heritage with his American identity as he navigates family expectations, budding romance, and self-discovery. The story centers around his secret relationship with a white girl named Brit, his fake relationship with Joy Song to appease their parents, and the challenges and growth he experiences along the way. The narrative includes racism and mentions an armed robbery and panic attacks.

Humorous

Romantic

Emotional

Heartwarming

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.1

30,739 ratings

63%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Frankly in Love by David Yoon offers a heartfelt narrative blending humor and complex cultural dynamics. Readers praise its authentic portrayal of teenage struggles and emotional intelligence. Critiques focus on a slow pace and occasional predictability. Despite some flaws, the novel's charm and insightful exploration of identity make it compelling.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Frankly in Love?

Readers who would enjoy Frankly in Love by David Yoon are typically young adults who appreciate contemporary, diverse narratives exploring identity and relationships. Fans of To All the Boys I've Loved Before by Jenny Han and The Sun is Also a Star by Nicola Yoon will find similar themes of cultural complexity and teen romance.

4.1

30,739 ratings

63%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Character List

Frank Li

The protagonist and narrator, Frank is a Korean American high school student who navigates the complexities of cultural identity, family expectations, and his evolving understanding of love and friendship.

A childhood friend and love interest of Frank, Joy is a confident and intelligent young woman with a passion for technology and engineering, navigating her own cultural challenges alongside Frank.

Frank's first love interest, Brit is a curious and daring girl whose relationship with Frank challenges traditional cultural norms and highlights themes of interracial relationships.

Frank's best friend, Q is an introspective and empathetic character who provides humor, support, and thoughtful discussions on life and identity, sharing a deep bond with Frank.

Frank's traditional Korean father, who is hardworking and embodies the values of sacrifice and perseverance, striving to provide for his family while grappling with cultural and generational differences.

Book Details
Pages

432

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Southern California • Contemporary

Publication Year

2019

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

HL660L

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