BOOK BRIEF

Hard Love

Ellen Wittlinger
Guide cover placeholder

Hard Love

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2001

Book Brief

Sparkles iconBeta
Ellen Wittlinger

Hard Love

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2001
Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Realistic Fiction

Romance

Modern Classic Fiction
Setting

Boston, Massachusetts • 1990s

Topic
LGBTQ+
Publication Year

2001

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

680L

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Hard Love by Ellen Wittlinger follows a high school student who builds a connection with a fellow writer through zines. This person-first narrative explores themes of identity discovery, friendship, and self-expression as they navigate complex emotions and relationships. The story highlights the transformative power of creative collaboration in overcoming personal challenges.

Emotional

Bittersweet

Contemplative

Melancholic

Romantic

Reviews & Readership

4.2

7,308 ratings

62%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Hard Love by Ellen Wittlinger is praised for its authentic portrayal of teenage emotions and the complexities of self-discovery. The characters are well-developed, offering a poignant look at friendship and identity. Some critics note the plot can feel predictable but agree that its emotional resonance and honest exploration of difficult themes make it a compelling read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Hard Love?

A reader who enjoys Hard Love by Ellen Wittlinger likely appreciates coming-of-age stories about identity and connection. They may also enjoy The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky for its exploration of adolescence and personal growth through a relatable, introspective lens.

4.2

7,308 ratings

62%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Realistic Fiction

Romance

Modern Classic Fiction
Setting

Boston, Massachusetts • 1990s

Topic
LGBTQ+
Publication Year

2001

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

680L

Buy This Book

We’re just getting started

Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!