Parents need to know that there is constant swearing, including the f-word, the b-word, and some pretty creative combinations. Nick and Norah order virgin cocktails, but Norah's best friend is always drunk, and there are other references to drugs like marijuana and Ecstasy. The characters also mention Krispy Kremes, Oreos, McDonald's, Chuck Taylors, Xbox, and more. There is some pretty passionate kissing and groping between straight and gay characters, plus talk of other sexual experiences. In the end, this is a story about teens who are able to get past their past hurts and trust the instant connection that just may be true love.
Educational value:Parents could use this book to talk about how well books translate to movies. See our "Families Can Talk About" section for more ideas to sharpen kids' critical thinking skills.
Positive messages:Through Nick and Norah's story readers learn that bad stuff happens to people -- even in love. But while love can hurt, it's worth it, especially when you find someone you really connect with.
Positive role models:Not every teen will relate to the lives these protagonists lead -- but they will connect with their search for themselves, and their obvious vulnerability. And they will root for them to realize how perfect they are for one another.
Sex:Some pretty passionate kissing and groping between straight and gay characters, a trip to a strip club, plus talk of other sexual experiences.
Language:Be prepared for constant swearing, including the f-word, the b-word, and some pretty creative combinations.
Consumerism:Krispy Kremes, Oreos, McDonald's, Chuck Taylors, Xbox, and more. Plus, Nick drives a Yugo.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking:Nick and Norah order virgin cocktails, but Norah's best friend is always drunk, and there are other references to drugs like marijuana and Ecstasy.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.
It's a romantic comedy for teens. It's one of the better ones I've read, though. So, there's some kissing(and more), talk about sex, and a strip club with strippers dressed like nuns. Also, there are a couple characters who regularly get drunk and hook up with whoever. Nick's band is underage but they play in a bar and drink alcohol. Don't forget the constant swearing, but its what kids hear at school every day.
Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist is a mediocre story packed with drinks, making out, oral sex, abusive boyfriends, and reckless behavior. Not the sort of stuff you'd want your teen emulating. On the bright side, it's slightly more creative that the junk most teens read.
This is a hilarious book, but it has some adult situations...namely lots of frank sex talk and a scene in a gay..."bar". A very interesting read overall.
I agree with what many others have said, that the book is not appropriate for some teens and teens who are not okay or used to the language/sex/drugs used throughout this book. However, in my opinion most of this stuff I see and hear every day at school. The language or inappropriateness was not a turn off for me, as it accurately depicts what things are like for most older teens.