“Save The Date” by Morgan Matson is a heartwarming and humorous young adult novel that follows the chaotic and delightful Grant family as they navigate the ups and downs of life, love, and family dynamics over the course of one eventful weekend.
The story centers around the protagonist, Charlie Grant, who is eagerly looking forward to her older sister’s wedding, which promises to be a perfect family reunion and a celebration of love. However, as the big day approaches, everything that can go wrong does go wrong, setting off a series of hilarious and touching mishaps that threaten to derail the meticulously planned festivities.
One of the strengths of Matson’s writing is her ability to create vibrant and relatable characters that feel like your own friends and family. Charlie is a lovable and quirky protagonist who is trying to hold everything together amidst the chaos unfolding around her. Her interactions with her siblings—bossy but caring sister Linnie, perpetually optimistic brother JJ, and charming but enigmatic brother Mike—capture the essence of sibling relationships with all their complexities and endearing quirks.
The family dynamics portrayed in the book are authentic and heartfelt, showcasing the joys and challenges of being part of a close-knit family. Matson beautifully captures the bittersweet moments of growing up and the nostalgia of childhood memories that resurface when reunited with loved ones. Readers will find themselves laughing out loud one moment and tearing up the next as the Grants navigate through misunderstandings, secrets, and the unpredictable nature of life.
Against the backdrop of wedding preparations and family drama, romance also plays a significant role in the story. Matson deftly weaves in a budding romance between Charlie and Jesse Ford, the handsome and enigmatic wedding planner hired to save the day. Their interactions are full of witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and moments of vulnerability that will warm the hearts of readers rooting for their relationship to blossom amidst the chaos surrounding them.
The pacing of the novel is well-crafted, keeping readers engaged with a balance of light-hearted humor, poignant moments, and unexpected twists. Matson’s writing is accessible and engaging, making it easy to immerse oneself in the world of the Grants and become emotionally invested in their journey towards understanding, forgiveness, and love.
In addition to its captivating characters and engaging plot, “Save The Date” also explores themes of family, change, and the importance of embracing imperfections and embracing the messiness of life. Matson’s narrative is a love letter to the unpredictability of family dynamics and the beauty of finding happiness in the midst of chaos.
Overall, “Save The Date” is a delightful and heartwarming read that will resonate with readers of all ages. It is a charming blend of humor, romance, and emotional depth that reminds us of the power of love, forgiveness, and the enduring bonds of family. With its witty dialogue, endearing characters, and relatable themes, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking a feel-good story that will leave you smiling long after you’ve turned the last page.