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Is 'Tell Me Again How A Crush Should Feel' Worth Reading?

2026-03-07 23:04:02

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3 Answers

Xanthe

Favorite read: A Crush To Remember

Responder

Lawyer

I’d say 'Tell Me Again How a Crush Should Feel' is solid but not groundbreaking. The premise is engaging: a closeted Iranian-American girl grappling with her sexuality amid family expectations. Sara Farizan’s writing is breezy and accessible, perfect for younger readers or those new to queer lit. Leila’s voice is endearing, though at times her naivety made me groan—realistic for a teen, but I craved a bit more complexity. The romance is sweet, if predictable, and the cultural backdrop adds meaningful stakes.

Where the book shines is in its quieter moments—Leila’s strained relationship with her sister, or her tentative bond with her crush, Saskia. The humor lands well, too, especially in Leila’s inner monologue. But compared to recent YA like 'You Should See Me in a Crown' or 'The Henna Wars,' it feels a tad dated (it came out in 2014, after all). Still, it’s a heartfelt entry in the genre, and if you’re looking for a lighter, coming-of-age story with cultural specificity, it’s worth your time.

2026-03-08 06:26:15

Hannah

Favorite read: He Was My Crush

Bookworm

Police Officer

I picked up 'Tell Me Again How a Crush Should Feel' on a whim after seeing it recommended in a queer book club, and wow, it stuck with me. The story follows Leila, an Iranian-American girl navigating her first real crush—on another girl—while balancing cultural expectations and family pressures. What I loved most was how authentic her voice felt; the awkwardness, the fear, and the tiny bursts of joy were so relatable. It’s not just a romance—it’s about self-discovery, and the way Sara Farizan writes makes every emotion hit home. The supporting characters, like Leila’s friends and her strict but layered parents, add depth without feeling like stereotypes.

If you’re into YA that tackles identity with warmth and humor, this is a gem. It doesn’t shy away from the messiness of coming out or first love, but it never feels heavy-handed. Plus, the cultural nuances added a fresh perspective I hadn’t seen much in other queer YA books. It’s a quick read, but one that lingers—I found myself thinking about Leila’s story days later, especially how it captures that universal teen feeling of wanting to belong while also being true to yourself.

2026-03-11 10:23:06

Evelyn

Favorite read: A Crush I Can't date (My Goodnovel Crush)

Book Scout

Chef

Let’s cut to the chase: 'Tell Me Again How a Crush Should Feel' is a cozy, heartfelt read. It’s not trying to reinvent the wheel, but it nails the bittersweet chaos of teenage crushes. Leila’s Iranian heritage isn’t just a backdrop—it shapes her fears and desires in ways that feel organic, not tacked on. The romance is tender and awkward in the best way, and Saskia is a love interest with enough quirks to avoid being a manic pixie dream girl. Farizan’s strength is in her empathy; even the less likable characters (hi, Leila’s dad) get moments of humanity. Perfect for a lazy afternoon read.

2026-03-12 08:39:06

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