59 pages • 1 hour read
Not So Pure and Simple
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Book Brief
416
Novel • Fiction
Contemporary
2020
YA
14-18 years
Super Short Summary
In Lamar Giles's Not So Pure and Simple, 17-year-old Del Rainey joins a purity pledge class at his church to get closer to his crush, Kiera Westing, discovering more about relationships, sexuality, and himself. As Del navigates church meetings and high school life, he challenges his assumptions about women and what it means to be a "real man." The book discusses sensitive topics related to sexual health, peer pressure, and societal expectations.
Humorous
Romantic
Challenging
Emotional
Hopeful
Reviews & Readership
4,127 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Lamar Giles' Not So Pure and Simple offers a fresh, engaging perspective on teen relationships and societal expectations. Well-received for its humor and relatable protagonist, the novel effectively addresses complex themes such as consent and toxic masculinity. However, some readers felt the pacing was uneven, and a few characters could have been more developed. Overall, a compelling read.
Who Should Read Not So Pure and Simple?
Readers who enjoyed Angie Thomas’s The Hate U Give or Jason Reynolds’s Long Way Down will find Not So Pure and Simple by Lamar Giles captivating. This book appeals to those interested in timely social issues, coming-of-age narratives, and authentic teen voices imbued with humor and heart.
4,127 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Kiera Westing
Kiera Westing
Kiera is Del's love interest, notable for her beauty and complexity, grappling with her devout religious beliefs and the challenges of personal honesty and leadership.
Cressie (Cressida) Rainey
Cressie (Cressida) Rainey
Cressie is Del’s strong and passionate sister who uses her YouTube channel to advocate for women’s empowerment, teaching Del about respect and equality.
416
Novel • Fiction
Contemporary
2020
YA
14-18 years
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