Common Sense Media Review
By Sage Moreaux
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Swearing and humor in a heartfelt journey toward love.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 16+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
In PEOPLE WE MEET ON VACATION, Poppy and Alex spent ten summers—just as friends—traveling the world together before one disastrous trip to Croatia. Poppy and Alex haven't talked for nearly two years since. When Poppy finds herself in a rut, she thinks about their relationship, how she and Alex are totally different, but also understand and accept one another in ways no one else does. She realizes the last time she was truly happy was with him. She reaches out, hoping to convince Alex to go on one more summer trip. He agrees, but with only a week to fix everything, and the universe seeming to be against them, will Poppy and Alex's summer trip truly be their last, or will they be able to uncover the truth of what lies between them?
Is It Any Good?
Fun, romantic, sweet, and full of witty banter, this is a must-read summer romance. Emily Henry's talent in creating realistic characters, heartfelt relationships, and engaging dialogue is in full force in People We Meet On Vacation. While some of the storyline feels predictable, the characters are unique and compelling enough to keep you reading, even when you think you know what's going to happen. The story does have a bit of a miscommunication trope, but Henry handles it deftly, and readers never grow too disillusioned with the character dynamics. The flashbacks to the characters' past trips make for a fun and varied change of scenery. The friends-to-lovers dynamic is reminiscent of When Harry Met Sally, but the characters are fresh and fun, and the book has a charm all of its own. The author also handles the sex scenes well, imbuing them with emotion and passion rather than being overly explicit. Though written for an adult audience, older teens nearing adulthood will appreciate this romance for the glimpse into an endearing, grown-up relationship.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Poppy's quest for happiness in People We Meet On Vacation. How is Poppy's desire to travel an extension of what happened to her as a teenager? Does this form of escapism seem healthy or unhealthy? What else could she have done instead or in addition to?
How does the story critique the idea that happiness comes from adventure, money, or picture-perfect moments? What role does empathy and compassion play in guiding the main characters towards more authentically happy lives?
What kinds of relationships (friendships, families, romances) are idealized in the story? Are these portrayals realistic or more like what we see in romantic comedies?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Romance
- Topics : Adventures , Family Stories , Friendship , Holidays ( Valentine's Day ) , School ( College & Graduate School ) , Travel
- Character Strengths : Communication , Compassion , Empathy , Integrity
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Berkley
- Publication date : May 11, 2021
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 18 - 18
- Number of pages : 400
- Available on : Paperback, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : January 9, 2026
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